The best walks and hikes around Bardahessiagh

Bardahessiagh is notable as an Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI), primarily due to its highly fossiliferous Ordovician sediments. This makes it a significant site for geology and paleontology, offering a unique opportunity for informal exploration amidst natural surroundings for those interested in earth sciences.

The Bardahessiagh area, located in County Tyrone, features rugged landscapes and rolling hills. Within the townland itself, you'll find elevated areas like Tullyallan Hill, Sessiagh Bevan, and Garagrim Mountain, which offer varied terrain and potentially scenic views of the surrounding countryside.

No, Bardahessiagh itself does not have established hiking trails or visitor facilities. Its appeal lies more in informal exploration of its geological features and natural beauty. For structured hiking experiences with marked trails, you might consider other areas in County Tyrone like Gortin Glen Forest Park or Davagh Forest.

The hiking routes available around Bardahessiagh generally range from easy to moderate. For example, the Drum Manor Forest Park loop and the Pomeroy Forest loop from Pomeroy are considered easy. A more moderate option is the Hiking loop from Cookstown.

Yes, there are several interesting landmarks nearby. You can explore the Drum Manor House Ruins, visit the ancient Beaghmore Stone Circles, or walk the Drum Manor Forest Park Woodland Trail. The Tullyhogue Fort is also a notable historical site in the vicinity.

The routes in the Bardahessiagh area are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 10 reviews. Hikers often appreciate the varied terrain, the opportunity for peaceful forest walks, and the natural beauty of County Tyrone's rugged landscapes.

Yes, many of the routes around Bardahessiagh are suitable for families, especially the easier forest loops. For instance, the Drum Manor Forest Park loop is an easy trail that takes about 1 hour 25 minutes to complete, making it a good option for a family outing.

While Bardahessiagh can be explored year-round, the best time for hiking in County Tyrone is typically during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) months. During these periods, the weather is generally milder, and the natural scenery is particularly vibrant, whether with spring blooms or autumn foliage. Summer offers longer daylight hours, but can also bring more visitors.

For routes like the Drum Manor Forest Park loop, parking is typically available at the respective forest park entrances. For other routes originating from towns like Cookstown or Pomeroy, public parking options are usually available within those towns, though it's always advisable to check local signage.

Yes, several circular walks are available. Popular options include the Drum Manor Forest Park loop, which is an easy 5.4 km trail, and the Hiking loop from Cookstown, a moderate 10.9 km path. The Pomeroy Forest loop from Pomeroy is another well-liked circular route.

While Bardahessiagh itself is an Area of Special Scientific Interest, many of the surrounding forest parks and trails in County Tyrone are dog-friendly, often requiring dogs to be kept on a lead. For example, Drum Manor Forest Park, which hosts several routes, generally welcomes dogs. Always check specific park regulations before visiting.

The natural landscapes of County Tyrone, including areas around Bardahessiagh, support a variety of wildlife. You might spot common woodland birds, various insects, and small mammals. Given the geological significance of Bardahessiagh, the primary 'discovery' might be the ancient fossils embedded in the Ordovician sediments.