The best walks and hikes around Upper Glenariff Mountain West

There are over 30 hiking routes in Upper Glenariff Mountain West, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix of easy, moderate, and more challenging trails to explore.

Yes, Upper Glenariff Mountain West offers 18 easy routes. A great option is the View of Glenariff Valley – Glenariff Forest loop from Cargan, which is an easy 3.5-mile (5.7 km) hike offering scenic views without significant elevation gain.

The terrain in Upper Glenariff Mountain West is quite diverse, featuring dense forests, scenic valleys, and notable waterfalls. You can expect varied elevations, from gentle forest paths to more challenging ascents, often alongside rivers like the Inver.

Absolutely! Waterfalls are a prominent feature of the region. The Waterfall Trail via Rainbow Trail — Antrim Coast & Glens is an excellent choice, specifically designed to showcase multiple waterfalls. You can also visit highlights like Inver River Waterfall and Ess-na-Laragh Waterfall.

Many of the easy trails are suitable for families. The paths within Glenariff Forest Park, such as the Glenariff Forest Park Scenic Trail, are generally well-maintained and offer engaging scenery for all ages, including waterfalls and forest paths.

Beyond the numerous waterfalls, you can explore natural monuments like Cranny Falls. The region is also part of the Antrim Coast & Glens, offering stunning coastal views and lush glens.

Yes, many of the trails are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the View of Glenariff Valley – Glenariff Forest loop from Cargan is a popular circular option.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning waterfalls, the tranquility of the forest paths, and the diverse scenery that ranges from river valleys to panoramic viewpoints.

Yes, for those seeking a greater challenge, there are 2 difficult routes available. The Inver River Waterfall – Ess-na-Laragh Waterfall loop from Antrim Coast & Glens AONB is a demanding 12.3-mile (19.9 km) trail with significant elevation gain, offering a full day's adventure.

The region is beautiful year-round, but spring and summer offer the most pleasant weather for hiking, with lush greenery and full-flowing waterfalls. Autumn brings vibrant foliage, while winter can offer a more rugged, quiet experience, though some paths might be muddy or slippery.

Parking is generally available at key access points, particularly within Glenariff Forest Park, which serves as a popular starting point for many trails. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route pages or local signage.