The best walks and hikes around Drumrankin

Yes, there are several options suitable for families. A great choice is the Hiking loop from Loughguile, a short 3.5 km walk through the countryside. For a slightly longer but still manageable outing, the Hiking loop from Cargan is a 6 km trail that offers a pleasant experience.

Many trails in the wider region are suitable for walking with a dog, but local rules can vary, especially in nature reserves or areas with livestock. Always keep your dog under control and check for signage at the trailhead. Nearby, Rea's Wood is noted by visitors as a good place for a walk with a dog, though you may need to carry out your own waste. For a more rugged, dog-friendly experience in the Antrim Glens, some self-catering accommodations are specifically advertised as welcoming pets.

Yes, most of the recommended routes in the area are loops, meaning you start and end in the same place. The Dungonnell Reservoir loop from Cargan is a popular circular walk that takes you all the way around the reservoir. For a more challenging day out, the Glenariff Forest – Glenariff Forest loop from Cargan also follows a circular path through the forest park.

Parking is generally available at or near the start of the main trails. For routes beginning in towns like Cargan or Loughguile, you can typically find on-street parking or small local car parks. Designated attractions like Glenariff Forest Park have their own dedicated parking areas, though a fee may apply. It's always a good idea to arrive early on weekends to secure a spot.

While the immediate trails don't focus on waterfalls, the nearby Glenariff Forest Park is famously known as the 'Queen of the Glens' and features spectacular waterfalls. You can explore this area on the Glenariff Forest – Glenariff Forest loop from Cargan, which takes you through the park where you can detour onto the dedicated Waterfall Walkway to see the cascades up close.

The terrain is quite varied. You'll encounter a mix of quiet country roads, well-maintained forest paths, and open hillside trails. Routes like the one around Dungonnell Reservoir are mostly on level service roads, while hikes in Breen Forest or Glenariff Forest involve more significant climbs and descents on woodland tracks, which can be muddy after rain.

Yes, for experienced hikers looking for a challenge, the Breen Forest loop from Loughguile is an excellent choice. At 22 km with over 500 meters of elevation gain, it's a demanding route that rewards with a deep immersion into the forest reserve. The wider region is also home to sections of the Antrim Hills Way for those interested in multi-day trekking.

The routes around Drumrankin are well-regarded by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, the beautiful reservoir views, and the mix of easy and challenging options available within a small area. The well-marked paths in places like Glenariff Forest are also frequently mentioned as a positive feature.

After your hike, the nearby towns and villages offer several options. While there are no pubs listed directly on the trails, towns like Cargan, Cushendall, or Ballymena are a short drive away and have a selection of traditional pubs and restaurants where you can relax and refuel.

The forests and hills around Drumrankin are rich in wildlife. In woodland areas like Breen Forest and Glenariff Forest, keep an eye out for red squirrels, various bird species, and native flora. The open hillsides of the Antrim Glens provide habitat for birds of prey, and the tranquil environment of Dungonnell Reservoir attracts waterfowl.

This guide highlights the top 6 routes, but there are more trails to discover. The area features a network of paths with about 7 main documented routes on komoot, ranging from easy strolls to difficult mountain hikes, ensuring there's a trail for every fitness level.