Easy hikes and walks around Drumnacanvy
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625
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22
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Easy hiking trails around Drumnacanvy, situated in County Armagh, Northern Ireland, provide access to diverse natural landscapes. The area is characterized by rolling hills, extensive parklands, and significant waterways such as Lough Neagh and the River Bann. Hikers can explore woodland trails, wildflower meadows, and traffic-free paths around local lakes, offering varied terrain for outdoor activities.
Best easy hiking trails around Drumnacanvy
- The most popular easy hiking route is Craigavon Balancing Lakes loop from Craigavon, a 3.6 miles (5.8…
Last updated: May 19, 2026
85
hikers
3.70km
00:56
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
85
hikers
5.11km
01:18
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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50
hikers
4.73km
01:13
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
20
hikers
3.95km
01:00
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
13
hikers
3.25km
00:50
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The paths are wide and perfect for families, as there are no cars to disturb you. As you glide along the car-free cycling and hiking trails, you can enjoy the view of the water - especially when the sky is cloudy, the lake has a very special atmosphere, almost mystical. The route is mostly asphalt, but there are also some gravel sections that provide some variety. These single-track paths add a certain challenge to the route without being really demanding. Ideal if you prefer to take it easy, but still don't want to just walk on smooth asphalt. If you want to take a break, the lake offers many corners to catch your breath and have a picnic. There is enough space on the banks to rest a bit and enjoy the surroundings to the fullest.
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Ground Espresso Bars Café is located right on the road, making it an ideal stop for cyclists travelling along the Newry Canal Towpath. Just a stone's throw from the River Bann, the small café offers a welcome place to take a quick breather. Here you can recharge your batteries with a cup of coffee or a small snack before continuing on. The atmosphere around the old, charming brick building is relaxed and inviting. Its proximity to the cycle path makes it a meeting point for cyclists and walkers alike. You can have a good conversation here or just watch the cyclists go by while sitting outside. Those who continue along the river soon find themselves in a rural landscape, accompanied by the Craigavon Lakes in the distance.
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At the meeting point of the Upper Bann River and the Newry Canal stands this striking signpost - a simple yet interesting construction that shows you the way. It points to places like Scarva, Newry, Portadown and Oxford Island, while the water flows quietly, creating a peaceful atmosphere. It's a moment to pause and take in the surroundings. The flow of the river, the gentle murmur and the green of the banks invite you to leave the path for a while and enjoy the view. You notice that it's not just routes that are described here, but also the connections between the towns and nature - a little reminder that every walk is more than just the path you take.
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A direction post stands right where the Upper Barn River meets the Newry Canal, marking the direction of Scarva, Newry, Portadown, and Oxford Island.
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The waterwheel at Craigavon Lakes is a historical landmark. It was purchased by the council in the 70s from the south of the Province and refurbished to provide energy to the local people. The wheel never got into full swing because of the lack of waterflow, however, in recent years the wheel has been seen turning for the first time!
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Craigavon Balancing Lakes, referred locally as 'The Lakes' are a set of man-made lakes built in the 1970s to control flooding. The route around the lakes is entirely flat and follows a mixture of paved and gravel paths close to the shoreline, which creates some wonderful water views as you jog along.
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A pretty lake with a lovely path for cycling / walking around. The lake is also popular with anglers.
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Similarly to a reservoir, these balancing lakes function as a water store. However, instead of storing the water for the purposes of consumption it is utilised to temporarily store flood waters. As the surrounding areas become more built up with hard surfaces, less rain excess water is stored by soil resulting in it routing quicker into the rivers. These balancing lakes help by reducing the volume of rain water reaching the rivers, which prevents flooding. And more importantly for cyclists it has the great byproduct of providing a pretty feature for MTB trails to be built around!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available around Drumnacanvy?
The Drumnacanvy area offers a good selection of easy hiking trails, with 18 routes specifically categorized as easy. These trails provide diverse options for exploring the region's natural beauty.
What makes the Drumnacanvy area suitable for easy hiking?
Drumnacanvy, located in County Armagh, is set within a Green Belt and offers a variety of gentle landscapes ideal for easy hiking. You'll find rolling hills, extensive parklands like Gosford Forest Park and Loughgall Country Park, and serene waterways such as Lough Neagh and the River Bann. Many trails feature woodland paths, wildflower meadows, and traffic-free routes around local lakes, ensuring a pleasant and accessible experience.
What do other hikers say about the easy trails in Drumnacanvy?
The easy hiking trails around Drumnacanvy are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.0 stars from over 20 reviews. More than 750 hikers have used komoot to explore the area, often praising the well-maintained paths and the tranquil scenery, particularly around the lakes and parklands.
Are there family-friendly easy walks near Drumnacanvy?
Yes, several easy walks in the area are perfect for families. The trails around the Craigavon Lakes are particularly popular, offering traffic-free paths through woodlands and over charming bridges. Pavilion in the Park – Lurgan Park Lake loop from Lurgan is another excellent family-friendly option, providing a gentle walk around the lake in Lurgan Park, one of Ireland's largest public parks.
Can I bring my dog on easy hikes around Drumnacanvy?
Many of the easy trails in the Drumnacanvy area are dog-friendly, especially those in open parklands and along lake shores. Gosford Forest Park, for example, is a National Park with numerous trails suitable for walks with dogs. Always ensure your dog is kept under control, and check for any specific signage regarding dog access in certain areas or nature reserves.
Are there any circular easy routes in the Drumnacanvy area?
Yes, many of the easy trails are circular, allowing for convenient exploration. Popular options include the Craigavon Balancing Lakes loop from Craigavon, which is 5.8 km, and the shorter Craigavon Lakes – Craigavon Balancing Lakes loop from Craigavon at 3.7 km. These routes offer continuous paths around the scenic lakes.
What natural attractions can I see along easy hiking trails near Drumnacanvy?
You can explore a variety of natural attractions on easy hikes. The Craigavon Lakes offer scenic views and tranquil paths. Further afield, Oxford Island National Nature Reserve, on the shores of Lough Neagh, features woodland trails, boglands, and birdwatching hides. Clare Glen provides serene walks along the Cusher River with charming stone bridges.
Are there any historical or cultural points of interest near the easy hiking routes?
While the focus is on natural beauty, you can find some interesting points. The Lough Neagh Discovery Centre at Oxford Island offers insights into the region's ecology. You might also encounter historical sites like Scarva Village or the Moyallan Pillbox, which are accessible from some routes or nearby.
Where can I find parking for easy hiking trails around Drumnacanvy?
Parking is generally available at key access points for popular parks and trailheads. For instance, Gosford Forest Park and Oxford Island National Nature Reserve have dedicated parking facilities. For routes around the Craigavon Lakes or Lurgan Park, you'll typically find parking in nearby urban areas or designated park car parks.
Are there any cafes or pubs near the easy hiking trails in Drumnacanvy?
Yes, you'll find options for refreshments. Portadown, being a nearby town, offers various cafes and pubs. Some trails, like the Ground Espresso Bars Café loop from Portadown, even start or pass by local establishments, allowing you to combine your walk with a coffee or meal.
What is the best time of year for easy hiking around Drumnacanvy?
The Drumnacanvy area, part of the 'Orchard County,' is beautiful throughout the spring and summer when the apple orchards are in blossom and wildflowers are abundant. Autumn also offers stunning foliage in the forest parks. While hiking is possible year-round, spring through autumn generally provides the most pleasant weather conditions for easy walks.
Are there any easy hikes with viewpoints in the Drumnacanvy area?
Given Drumnacanvy's location on a 'yellow topped ridge' and the region's rolling hills, many easy trails offer pleasant views. Walks around Lough Neagh, particularly from Oxford Island, provide panoramic vistas of the lake. Trails in Gosford Forest Park and around the Craigavon Lakes also offer scenic outlooks over the parklands and water.
Most popular routes around Drumnacanvy
Most popular attractions around Drumnacanvy
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