The best walks and hikes around Broughderg

Broughderg offers a selection of hiking trails, with at least four distinct routes detailed, ranging from easy strolls to more moderate challenges. These trails allow you to explore the region's diverse landscapes, including coniferous woodlands, blanket bog, and serene loughs.

Yes, Broughderg has several easy trails suitable for families. For instance, the Errasallagh and Kimran Forest loop via Lough Corry is an easy 6.6 km path through forest areas and past Lough Corry, offering scenic views. Another gentle option is the Whiskered Bat Nature Trail – Killyfole Lough loop from Aghadrumsee, which is just over 2 km.

Broughderg's landscape is rich and varied. You'll encounter extensive coniferous woodlands, significant areas of blanket bog, and numerous serene loughs. Notable natural features include the scenic Coneyglen Valley, the expansive Davagh Forest, and the unique bogland of Creggan Wood, which features a boardwalk for easy exploration.

Yes, many of the trails around Broughderg are circular, offering convenient starting and ending points. Examples include the Turnaround Point loop from Crocknagrally, a moderate 10.2 km route, and the easier Lough Jenkin – Lough Nadarra loop from Altagoaghan, which is 4.4 km and takes you past multiple loughs.

Broughderg is renowned for its archaeological heritage. A major draw is the mysterious Beaghmore Stone Circles, a complex of Bronze Age megalithic structures. Other significant sites include Dun Ruadh and The Ogham Stone, showcasing ancient history. You might also find points of interest like Carnmore Lough and Lough Corry along various routes.

The best time to hike in Broughderg generally aligns with milder weather conditions, typically spring through autumn. During these seasons, the trails are more accessible, and the diverse plant life, especially in areas like Creggan Wood, is vibrant. The region's remote nature means it's peaceful year-round, but always be prepared for changeable weather.

The trails in Broughderg are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the peaceful and remote atmosphere, the diverse natural settings including woodlands and loughs, and the opportunity to explore unique archaeological sites like the Beaghmore Stone Circles.

Yes, Davagh Forest, a significant natural asset in the Broughderg area, is recognized as an International Dark Sky Park. This makes it an excellent location for stargazing, offering unique opportunities to observe celestial bodies with minimal light pollution, in addition to its daytime hiking trails.

While not directly on the listed trails, the Broughderg region is part of the Sperrins range, home to Sawel Mountain. Standing at 678 meters, Sawel Mountain is the highest peak in the Sperrins and the 8th highest in Northern Ireland, offering uninterrupted views across Counties Londonderry and Tyrone from its summit.

Yes, several trails in Broughderg feature loughs. The Errasallagh and Kimran Forest loop via Lough Corry passes by Lough Corry. Another option is the Lough Jenkin – Lough Nadarra loop from Altagoaghan, which leads through a landscape featuring multiple loughs.

Absolutely. Creggan Wood in the Broughderg area offers a unique bogland experience. It features a variety of plant life, including sphagnum moss, cranberry, and bilberry. A gravel path and raised boardwalk allow visitors to explore this distinctive landscape without getting wet.