The best MTB trails around Aughlish

Komoot lists several mountain bike routes around Aughlish, with options ranging from moderate to difficult. These trails provide access to the diverse terrain of the Sperrin Mountains.

The terrain around Aughlish, within the Sperrin Mountains, is varied. You can expect heather-clad hills, rolling uplands, soft valleys, winding rivers, and dense forests. Trails often feature varied gradients, from moderate forest paths to more challenging routes with technical sections and steep descents.

While the routes directly listed for Aughlish are moderate to difficult, nearby Davagh Forest Trails offer gentle options suitable for families and beginners, along with a skills park and pump track. Gortin Glen Forest Park also has blue-graded trails that are more accessible.

For advanced riders, the Faughan Valley and Sperrins Loop is a difficult 96.7 km trail. Additionally, Davagh Forest offers a challenging 16km red trail with rock slab drops, and Blessingbourne Estate features dramatic red/black technical loops with jumps, rock-gardens, and drops.

Yes, there are circular routes available. For example, the Banagher Dam and Moydamlaght Forest loop – Sperrins is a moderate 36.2 km circular trail. Another option is the Banagher Dam – Altnaheglish Reservoir loop from Feeny Road Bus Stop, which is a moderate 24.9 km route circling the Altnaheglish Reservoir.

The Sperrin Mountains offer numerous scenic views. You can find unspoiled vistas from areas like Mullaghcarn and Ladies Viewpoint in Gortin Glen Forest Park. The ice-age sculpted landscape provides spectacular views in Barnes Gap, Gortin Glen, and the Owenkillew and Glenelly valleys. Specific highlights include Sawel Mountain Summit and Altnaheglish Reservoir.

Aughlish itself is known for its historical Bronze Age stone circles and stone rows. While mountain biking, you might pass by sites like Learmount Castle or the Blanket Bog and Turf Information Boards Near Crockmore Peak, offering glimpses into the region's past and natural heritage.

The Sperrin Mountains are beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn often offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant landscapes. Summer provides longer daylight hours. Be prepared for changeable weather, as is typical for Northern Ireland, and check local trail conditions before heading out.

While specific parking details for Aughlish routes are not provided, dedicated mountain biking centers like Davagh Forest and Gortin Glen Forest Park offer ample parking facilities for visitors accessing their trail networks.

The region around Aughlish and the Sperrin Mountains has various local establishments. While specific cafes directly on the trails are not listed, you'll find options in nearby towns and villages, especially around popular trailheads like Davagh Forest, which often has visitor facilities.

Some routes, like the Banagher Dam – Altnaheglish Reservoir loop, are accessible from a bus stop (Feeny Road Bus Stop). However, public transport options can be limited in rural areas like the Sperrin Mountains, so planning your journey in advance is recommended.

Mountain biking in the Sperrin Mountains offers a unique blend of heather-clad hills, rolling uplands, and dense woodlands within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The ice-age sculpted landscape provides dramatic views and varied gradients, with dedicated trail centers like Davagh Forest and Gortin Glen Forest Park offering world-class, purpose-built trails alongside more natural, expansive routes.