The best running trails around Ballymulligan

There are over 15 running routes around Ballymulligan, offering a variety of options for different fitness levels. The komoot community has explored 17 routes in total within this area.

Running routes around Ballymulligan primarily feature a mix of open countryside, river valleys, and local country roads. You'll find fertile farmlands and wooded areas, with some proximity to the rugged Sperrin Mountains in the wider County Londonderry region, offering varied terrain for your runs.

Yes, Ballymulligan offers several routes suitable for beginners. There are 3 easy running routes available, perfect for a gentle jog or a leisurely run through the rural environment.

While most routes are moderate, there is 1 difficult running route available for those seeking a greater challenge. The wider County Londonderry area, particularly towards the Sperrin Mountains, also provides more rugged landscapes for experienced runners.

Many of the running routes in the Ballymulligan area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Moyola River loop from Magherafelt and the Desertlynn Old Graveyard loop from Moneymore are popular circular options.

While running, you might encounter various points of interest. The wider region of County Londonderry offers natural features like Lough Neagh and the Slieve Gallion NE Top Summit. You can also find historical sites such as the Ardboe High Cross, and scenic viewpoints like the View of the Gallion Mountains and County Londonderry.

Yes, the region is shaped by significant waterways. The Moyola River loop from Magherafelt follows the scenic Moyola River, offering pleasant riverside running. The broader County Londonderry also reaches Lough Neagh, one of the largest lakes in Ireland, and features other river valleys like the Foyle and Bann.

Many of the rural paths and country roads around Ballymulligan are suitable for running with dogs, provided they are kept under control, especially when passing through farmland or near livestock. Always check local signage for specific restrictions in nature reserves or private lands.

The running routes around Ballymulligan vary in length. You can find shorter runs, such as the Desertlynn Old Graveyard loop from Moneymore at 4.3 miles (6.9 km), up to longer options like the Moyola River loop from Magherafelt, which is 8.2 miles (13.2 km).

Given the rural nature of Ballymulligan and its surrounding areas, parking is often available at trailheads or in nearby villages like Magherafelt and Moneymore. However, specific parking facilities may vary, so it's advisable to check the starting points of individual routes for details.

Access to running routes directly from Ballymulligan by public transport might be limited due to its small townland status. However, larger towns in County Londonderry, such as Magherafelt and Moneymore, which are starting points for some routes, generally have better public transport links. It's recommended to plan your journey in advance.

Running in Ballymulligan is enjoyable year-round, but spring and summer (April to September) offer milder weather and longer daylight hours, making for more pleasant conditions. Autumn provides beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Winter runs are possible but require appropriate gear for colder, potentially wetter conditions.