Easy hikes and walks around Ballygelly

There are 6 easy hiking trails around Ballygelly listed in this guide, offering a variety of landscapes from riverbanks to woodlands.

Yes, several easy trails in the area are circular. For example, the Devenagh Burn Riverbank loop from Ballymena and the River Braid loop from Broughshane are both easy circular routes that offer pleasant scenery.

Easy hikes in Ballygelly showcase the diverse Antrim coast. You'll find trails along river valleys, through woodlands like the Tardree Forest loop from Tardree Mountain, and opportunities to experience the dramatic coastal scenery, including views of prominent headlands and basalt cliffs.

Many of the easy trails in Ballygelly are suitable for families due to their gentle gradients and well-defined paths. Carnfunnock Country Park, located nearby, is particularly family-friendly, offering nature walks and a heritage trail.

Generally, dogs are welcome on many of the outdoor trails in the Ballygelly area, especially in open country and forest parks like Ballyboley Forest. However, it's always best to keep them on a lead, especially near livestock or in designated nature conservation areas, and to check specific park regulations beforehand.

While on easy hikes, you might encounter views of significant natural features like Ballygally Head, an ancient volcanic plug, or the impressive basalt cliffs of Sallagh Braes. Inland, you can spot Slemish Mountain, an extinct volcano, or enjoy the tranquility of Killylane Reservoir.

Ballygelly's easy hiking trails can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather and vibrant greenery, while autumn brings beautiful foliage. Even in winter, the coastal paths provide refreshing walks, though some inland routes might be muddier. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Yes, many trailheads for easy hikes in and around Ballygelly, particularly those in country parks like Carnfunnock, offer dedicated parking facilities. For routes starting in villages, street parking or small public car parks are often available.

Ballygelly is served by local bus routes that connect it to larger towns. While public transport can get you to the general area, accessing specific trailheads might require a short walk or a taxi, as some routes are located in more rural settings. Planning your journey in advance with local transport schedules is recommended.

Ballygelly village itself offers amenities including cafes and pubs where you can refuel after a hike. The Ballygally Castle, now a hotel, also provides dining options. Nearby towns and country parks like Carnfunnock often have facilities for refreshments.

The easy trails in Ballygelly are appreciated by the komoot community, with an average rating of 3.0 stars. Hikers often praise the accessible nature of the paths, the scenic views, and the peaceful atmosphere of the riverbank and woodland routes.

While specific easy coastal trails are not detailed in the guide, Ballygally Beach offers refreshing seaside strolls with panoramic views of the Antrim coastline, Ballygally Head, and even Scotland on clear days. The wider Causeway Coastal Route, which Ballygelly is part of, is renowned for its stunning cliff-top views.