The best walks and hikes around Drumcrow

Yes, the area features several excellent circular trails. For a challenging day out with rewarding views, the Black Hill loop offers a fantastic 8.1-mile (13 km) circuit through the upland landscapes of the Antrim Hills. If you're looking for something more moderate, the Ballyboley Forest loop from Ballynure provides a pleasant 4.7-mile (7.6 km) walk through woodland.

The terrain around Drumcrow is quite varied. You'll find everything from gentle, waymarked paths through forests and alongside rivers to more strenuous ascents on open hillsides. The region is characterized by rolling hills, tranquil reservoirs, and lush glens, so while some routes involve significant climbs, there are plenty of easier, flatter options available.

Definitely. The Glenarm Forest loop is an excellent choice for families. It's a relatively short and easy walk on good paths that follows the scenic Glenarm River, making it manageable for walkers of all ages.

Many trails in the region are suitable for walking with dogs, especially in forested areas like Glenarm Forest and Ballyboley Forest. However, you will be passing through areas with active farmland and sensitive wildlife habitats. Always keep your dog on a lead, especially near livestock, and be sure to clean up after them to protect the natural environment.

For spectacular panoramic views, the ascent of Black Hill is highly recommended. From its 381-meter summit, you can see across the Glens of Antrim and even to Scotland on a clear day. The trails around Killylane Reservoir also offer beautiful, serene views across the water and surrounding woodland.

While trails like the Cuilcagh Boardwalk are famous for their unique construction and blanket bog landscape, the hiking around Drumcrow offers a different kind of beauty. Here, you'll experience the classic scenery of the Antrim Coast and Glens: lush, green valleys, dense woodlands rich with wildlife, and expansive coastal views. The trails feel more traditional and varied underfoot.

The Antrim Glens are rich in biodiversity. As you walk, particularly in quieter areas like Glenarm Forest and Straidkilly Nature Reserve, keep an eye out for iconic red squirrels. The rivers are home to salmon and trout, and you might spot otters or kingfishers along the banks. The area's woodlands and hills support a wide variety of birdlife.

Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the Black Hill loop from Glenarm is a demanding option. This 11.3-mile (18.2 km) route involves a significant amount of ascent and rewards hikers with some of the best views in the region. The terrain can be rugged and requires good fitness and navigation skills.

The routes in this area are highly regarded by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the beautiful mix of woodland and open hillside, and the stunning views across the glens and out to sea. The tranquility of the trails is another frequently mentioned highlight.

Most of the main trailheads, such as those for Glenarm Forest and Ballyboley Forest, have dedicated car parks. However, these can get busy, especially on weekends and holidays. For less popular routes, parking may be limited to small lay-bys on rural roads, so it's always a good idea to arrive early to secure a spot.

Yes, the region has a rich history. For example, while walking in Glenarm Forest, you can see 'The Lead,' a 19th-century watercourse that once powered a local mill. Ballyboley Forest is also steeped in folklore and is believed to have been an important site for the Druids, with ancient stone formations scattered throughout the woods.