The best walks and hikes around Derrycloony
5.0
(1)
41
hikers
3
hikes
Hiking around Derrycloony offers access to varied natural landscapes, primarily characterized by woodlands, loughs, and gentle hills. The region features areas of ecological significance, including wetland habitats and ancient oak woodlands. These environments provide diverse terrain for outdoor activities, ranging from forest paths to lakeside trails.
Best hiking trails around Derrycloony
- The most popular hiking route is Knockmany Forest loop, a 4.5 miles (7.3 km) trail that takes 2 hours 4 minutes to complete. This moderate route explores the…
Last updated: October 14, 2026
7.35km
02:04
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
8.97km
02:27
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
8.69km
02:21
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
36
hikers
4.79km
01:25
140m
140m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
12.0km
03:18
180m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Tips from the Community
Slieve Beagh at 380 m (1,247 ft) is the highest point of the high mountain area on the Fermanagh-Tyrone border. There is a lot of blanket bog and mossy moorland here, this is an important upland habitat and sequester of peat.
0
0
Lough Antrawar lies in the dip southeast of Slieve Beagh. The slopes above the lough are very wet and boggy so this is where the ground drains. The outflow stream flows down the valley and joins the River Blackwater.
0
0
The southeast top of Slieve Beagh stands at 373 m (1,224 ft). It's a sprawling boggy summit which is quite an effort to climb. The true summit stands at 380 m (1,247 ft) over the border a short distance to the north west.
0
0
Enjoy a beautiful stroll through the towering woodland that makes up Knockmany Forest. The forest boasts beautiful colours all around and a seasonal display of blooming bluebells which carpet the forest floor.
2
0
Knockmany passage tomb, or Anya's Cove, is an ancient burial monument on the summit of Knockmany Hill, near the village of Augher in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland. It is the remains of a Neolithic passage tomb and its stones are decorated with rare megalithic art. They are protected by a concrete chamber and mound, built in 1959 by the Department of the Environment, roughly resembling the mound that would have originally covered it. The stones can only be viewed through the entrance gates - there is no way inside possible. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Knockmany_Passage_Tomb There is a parking space at the bottom of Knockmany Hill - you can start from there - mostly easy to walk. There are no signs - but if you take the ways uphill you'll find the tomb.
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Derrycloony?
There are 3 hiking trails available around Derrycloony, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. These routes offer diverse experiences through forests and across hills.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners in Derrycloony?
Yes, for an easier option, consider the Knockmany Forest – Viewpoint loop from Ardunshin. This trail is 4.8 km long and takes approximately 1 hour 25 minutes to complete, offering gentle elevation changes.
What are the best trails for a moderate hike in Derrycloony?
For moderate hikes, you can explore the Knockmany Forest loop, which is 7.3 km long, or the Slieve Beagh loop via lough Antrawer, covering 9 km. Both offer engaging terrain and scenic views.
Are the hiking trails in Derrycloony dog-friendly?
Many trails in the Derrycloony area, including those in Knockmany Forest and Slieve Beagh, are generally dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas with livestock or protected wildlife, and to check local signage for any specific restrictions.
Are there family-friendly hiking options in Derrycloony?
Yes, areas like Knockmany Forest offer trails suitable for families. The Knockmany Forest – Viewpoint loop from Ardunshin is a good choice for families due to its manageable distance and easy difficulty.
What natural features can I expect to see while hiking around Derrycloony?
The Derrycloony area is known for its diverse natural habitats. You can expect to see the open waters of Derrycloony Lough, fringed by emergent swamps and fen vegetation. The surrounding areas also feature wet heath, semi-improved neutral grassland, and scrub, supporting a rich variety of plant life.
Are there any notable landmarks or points of interest along the hiking routes?
Yes, while hiking, you can discover several points of interest. The Knockmany Forest itself is a highlight, and within it, you can find the ancient Knockmany Cairn. The Lough Antrawar is also a scenic spot along some routes.
What is the best time of year to hike in Derrycloony?
The best time to hike in Derrycloony is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October) when the weather is milder and the trails are less likely to be muddy. Spring brings blooming flora, while autumn offers beautiful foliage.
Are there circular walks available in Derrycloony?
Yes, all the listed routes around Derrycloony are circular walks, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Knockmany Forest loop and the Slieve Beagh loop via lough Antrawer.
Where can I find information about the conservation status of Derrycloony Lough?
Derrycloony Lough is designated as an Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI) due to its significant natural habitats. More information about its conservation status can be found on the DAERA NI website.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Derrycloony?
While specific ratings are not available for individual routes, hikers generally appreciate the quiet, natural beauty of the area, particularly the varied landscapes of Knockmany Forest and the serene environment around Slieve Beagh. The well-maintained trails and opportunities for wildlife spotting are often highlighted.
Most popular routes around Derrycloony
Most popular attractions around Derrycloony
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
