The best walks and hikes in Banagher Forest

Yes, dogs are generally welcome in Banagher Forest, but they must be kept on a lead and under control at all times. This is particularly important as the area is a National Nature Reserve and home to sensitive wildlife and grazing livestock.

Yes, there is a car park at the entrance to Banagher Glen. However, it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during holidays. It's recommended to arrive early to secure a spot. The main trails, including the path to the Altnaheglish Reservoir, start from here.

While many trails in Banagher Forest involve a steady incline, the initial walk along the forest road through Banagher Glen can be suitable for families. The path is wide, though it is a continuous uphill walk to the dam. It's best to gauge your family's ability and turn back when needed. The scenery within the ancient woodland is rewarding even on a shorter walk.

Banagher Glen is accessible to the public at all times. However, as there is no lighting on the trails, it is strongly advised to plan your hike during daylight hours and allow plenty of time to return to the car park before dusk.

Hike durations vary depending on the route. A popular option is the 8.2-mile (13.3 km) Banagher Glen Forest Trail — Sperrins, which takes most people just over 3.5 hours. Shorter walks are possible by simply turning back at any point, while more challenging routes can take longer.

A major highlight is the Altnaheglish Reservoir and Dam, the tallest dam in Northern Ireland. The trails leading up to and around it offer fantastic views. The steep-sided Banagher Glen itself is one of Ireland's largest ancient oak woodlands, and the Owenrigh River flows through it, adding to the scenic beauty.

For a more strenuous hike, consider the Spelhoagh – Craigagh Hill loop from Feeny. This 8.6-mile (13.9 km) route involves over 570 meters of ascent, taking you into the open terrain of the Sperrin Mountains and rewarding you with panoramic views.

The forest is a Special Area of Conservation with rich biodiversity. Keep an eye out for bird species like buzzards and sparrowhawks. If you're patient and quiet, you might spot red squirrels. In spring, the woodland floor is famous for its carpet of bluebells.

There are no officially waymarked routes within Banagher Forest. Most hikers follow the main forest roads and paths. It is highly recommended to use a navigation app like komoot and download your route map for offline use before you go, as mobile signal can be unreliable in the glens.

Reaching the main car park for Banagher Forest via public transport is very difficult due to its rural location. The nearest town is Dungiven, a few miles away, but there is no direct bus service to the forest entrance. Arriving by car is the most practical option.

The main path from the car park to the dam is a tarmac and gravel forest road with a steady incline. Other paths can be uneven, muddy, and slippery, especially after rain. Proper waterproof hiking boots with good grip are essential for exploring beyond the main track.

Yes, there are several loop trails. For a shorter but scenic loop with great views, the Eagle Rock (Craig-na-shoke) loop from Draperstown is a great option. It's a moderate 4.2-mile (6.7 km) hike that takes around 2 hours to complete.