The best walks and hikes around Killyvally

The hikes are centered around the accessible woodlands near Garvagh in County Derry. The trails primarily explore established forest paths in places like Garvagh Forest and Moneygran Wood, characterized by gentle hills and riverside scenery.

Yes, the region is well-suited for families. For a shorter outing, the Moneygran Wood loop from Kilrea is an easy walk of just over 3 km. For a day out with more facilities, Killykeen Forest Park in nearby County Cavan is a popular choice, offering multiple routes, picnic areas, and a large car park.

Dogs are generally welcome on the trails, but should be kept on a lead, especially in woodlands and near farmland. The Errigal Bridge loop from Glenullin offers a pleasant walk through the countryside that you can enjoy with your canine companion.

Most of the popular trailheads have dedicated parking. For walks in Garvagh Forest, there is parking available at the main entrance. Similarly, other well-known spots in the wider region like Deerpark Forest and Killyfole Lake Scenic Walk have their own car parks, making access straightforward.

Nearly all the recommended trails in the area are loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same place without retracing your steps. The Garvagh Forest loop is a great example, providing a varied 6 km circuit through the woods.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Hikers often praise the quiet, well-maintained woodland paths and the gentle, accessible nature of the routes, making it a relaxing destination.

Absolutely. The trails around Killyvally are ideal for beginners or those looking for a gentle walk. All the main routes are graded as easy, with minimal elevation gain and clear paths. The Garvagh Forest Trails loop from Garvagh is a particularly good choice, featuring gentle gradients over its 5.4 km length.

You can find a handful of curated, easy-to-follow routes right around Killyvally, focusing on the best woodland and riverside walks. The wider region offers many more options if you wish to explore further.

The routes immediately around Killyvally and Garvagh are focused on easy, low-level walks. For more strenuous hiking, you would need to travel further afield to areas with more significant elevation, such as the Sperrin Mountains or the Causeway Coast.

The woodland trails are accessible and beautiful year-round. Spring brings fresh foliage and wildflowers, summer offers lush green canopies, and autumn provides stunning colours. Winter walks can be crisp and quiet, but be sure to wear appropriate footwear as paths can be muddy.

The town of Garvagh, which serves as the starting point for several key trails, has a selection of local pubs and cafes where you can get refreshments after your hike. It's best to check their opening times in advance, particularly on weekdays.