The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Old Forge
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3,543
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Family friendly hiking trails around Old Forge are set within the Adirondack Mountains, offering access to extensive forests, rivers, and mountain vistas. The region features a landscape of rugged mountains and numerous lakes and ponds. Trails wind through mixed hardwood forests, providing diverse flora and fauna. This area provides a variety of outdoor experiences for different skill levels.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Old Forge
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is View of the River Lagan – Shaw's Bridge loop from Lagan Valley AONB, a 6.6 miles (10.6 km) trail that takes 2 hours 43 minutes to complete. This moderate route offers views of the River Lagan.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Culchrist Bridge loop from Lagan Valley AONB, an easy 4.0 miles (6.5 km) path. This trail features gentle terrain around the Culchrist Bridge area.
- Local hikers also love the Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park loop from Lagan Valley AONB, a 1.4 miles (2.2 km) trail leading through parkland, often completed in about 36 minutes.
- Hiking around Old Forge is defined by dense forests, numerous lakes, and varied elevation changes. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy walks to more challenging ascents.
- The routes in Old Forge are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 160 reviews. More than 3500 hikers have used komoot to explore Old Forge's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
5.0
(2)
44
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
26
hikers
6.47km
01:39
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
2.20km
00:36
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Cycle and pedestrian bridge over the Lagan
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The bridge is named after Captain John Shaw of Oliver Cromwell's army, who built an oak bridge here in 1655. A stone bridge was built by Thomas Burgh in 1691, although this was destroyed by flooding, which led to it being replaced by the present bridge in 1709.
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Canoeing route in the whitewater rapids of the Lagan river
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There is probably no better way to get to Belfast city centre by bike.
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The old stone bridge stretches majestically over the still water, which is perfectly reflected and creates a calm, almost magical atmosphere. The surrounding nature is inviting and offers a wonderful backdrop with green meadows and shady paths. A light wind blows through the trees and the sounds of nature accompany you with every pedal stroke.
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Running from Belfast to Lisburn, the Lagan Towpath is a pleasant, walk around the River Lagan with peaceful surroundings such as wetland, riverside meadows, & woodlands. The canal system itself dates back to the late 18th century and now offers a glimpse into the area's past.
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Running from Belfast to Lisburn, the Lagan Towpath is a pleasant, walk around the River Lagan with peaceful surroundings such as wetland, riverside meadows, & woodlands. The canal system itself dates back to the late 18th century and now offers a glimpse into the area's past.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Old Forge?
Old Forge offers a wide variety of family-friendly hiking trails. Our guide features nearly 200 routes, with over 120 of them rated as easy, making them perfect for families with children of all ages.
Are there any easy loop trails suitable for families in Old Forge?
Yes, Old Forge has several easy loop trails that are great for families. For a shorter option, consider the Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park loop, which is just over 2 km. A slightly longer, easy loop is the Culchrist Bridge loop, spanning about 6.5 km.
What kind of natural features and viewpoints can we expect on family hikes in Old Forge?
The Old Forge area, nestled in the Adirondack Mountains, is rich with natural beauty. Many trails offer picturesque views of the Fulton Chain of Lakes, dense forests, and even waterfalls like Death Falls (also known as Secret Falls). Popular spots like Bald Mountain (Rondaxe Mountain) and McCauley Mountain provide panoramic vistas of the Adirondacks.
Are there any dog-friendly family hiking trails in Old Forge?
Many trails in the Old Forge area are dog-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry companions along for the adventure. The Cascade Lake Trail, for example, is known to be suitable for dogs. Always remember to keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them.
What is the best time of year for family hiking in Old Forge?
The best time for family hiking in Old Forge is typically from late spring through early fall. Summer offers warm weather perfect for combining hikes with lake activities, while autumn provides spectacular fall foliage. Spring can be beautiful but may have muddy conditions on some trails.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family-friendly trails in Old Forge?
The komoot community highly rates the trails around Old Forge, with an average score of 4.4 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the stunning lake views, and the accessibility of trails suitable for various family skill levels, from easy strolls to more moderate adventures.
Are there any attractions or landmarks near the family hiking trails in Old Forge?
While hiking, you might find yourself near interesting points. For example, the Shaw's Bridge is a historical site that can be part of a longer route like the View of the River Lagan loop. The region also boasts natural landmarks like the Fulton Chain of Lakes and the historic fire tower on Bald Mountain.
What are some good options for shorter, toddler-friendly hikes in Old Forge?
For families with toddlers, shorter and flatter trails are ideal. The Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park loop is an excellent choice, being just over 2 km and rated as easy. Other easy, scenic walks like Cathedral Pines, Gull Lake Trail, Moss Lake Loop, and the Lock and Dam Trail are also great for little legs.
Are there any moderate family hikes for older children or more active families?
Absolutely! For families seeking a bit more challenge, the View of the River Lagan – Shaw's Bridge loop is a moderate 10.6 km trail. Other moderate options in the region include Black Bear Mountain and Nicks Lake Loop, offering varied terrain and rewarding views.
Is parking readily available at trailheads for family hikes in Old Forge?
Yes, many popular trailheads in the Old Forge area, especially those catering to families, typically offer designated parking areas. It's always a good idea to check specific trail information or local visitor guides for details on parking availability and any potential fees before you head out.
Can we find trails with waterfalls in the Old Forge area?
Yes, the Old Forge area is home to beautiful natural water features. You can find trails that lead to waterfalls, such as Death Falls (also known as Secret Falls), which is known for its accessibility and scenic beauty. These spots can be a wonderful highlight for a family hike.
Most popular attractions around Old Forge
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