The best walks and hikes around Glass Moss
4.7
(44)
658
hikers
42
hikes
Hiking around Glass Moss offers a variety of trails through woodlands and along coastal areas. The region features gentle elevations, with routes often passing through established woods and near bodies of water. Key landmarks include Scrabo Tower, which provides a focal point for several routes, and Rough Island, indicating coastal or island-like terrain. The landscape is generally accessible, with many trails suitable for various ability levels.
Best hiking trails around Glass Moss
- The most popular hiking route is Floodgates Walk…
Last updated: May 15, 2026
5.0
(1)
41
hikers
6.58km
01:40
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
5
hikers
4.01km
01:11
120m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5
hikers
1.84km
00:28
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
55
hikers
6.28km
01:51
180m
180m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
49
hikers
4.07km
01:11
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Glass Moss
Tips from the Community
A short stroll around Rough Island will provide you excellent views across the beautiful Strangford Lough and its shoreline. The island is a popular location for bird-watching, so don't forget to bring your binoculars, there is also a picnic area on the island, too. The island is only accessible at low tide, so knowing the tide times is essential.
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This is the tidal causeway leading to the beautiful Rough Island. The causeway becomes completely submerged during high tide, so being aware of the tide times is essential. You can check out the daily times here https://www.tideschart.com/New-Zealand/Other/Rough-Island/
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Follow this flat, paved path along the northern strand of Strangford Lough near Newtownwards. You're afforded great views out over the water and also of Scrabo Tower, which looms above the town.
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Always worth the ascent. If only for the view towards Sliev Croob and the Mournes. Beautiful patch work of swollen hills, cut by colourful fields, that meander all the way to the shore of Strangford Lough below. There are several interesting woodland gravel trails in the woods, connecting to Scrabo, and Ards. Twilight is magic up here. Smooth tarmac Decent down to Ards via Scrabo Road is a joy, with the tower on your left, and the sprawling Lough, and Newtownards to your right.
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There is a decent sized network of Woodland Gravel trails in Killynether that connect to the old Quarry Path, and Scrabo Tower.
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Scrabo Tower is an impressive 19th century folly that stands on Scrabo Hill in County Down. It is one of the most well-known landmarks in Northern Ireland. Inside the tower is an exhibition and short video explaining its history and outside the tower you can enjoy some incredible views over Strangford Lough and the surrounding countryside
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It's a peaceful encounter trailing through the woods of Killynether. The woods are on the grounds of a former estate and the beautiful medley of flowers and trees is the result of some keen planters back in the 19th century.
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Woodland gravel path alongside a quarry and up in to Scrabo Country Park and Killynether Wood
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the general difficulty level of hiking trails in Glass Moss?
Hiking around Glass Moss is generally accessible, with the majority of trails being easy. Out of 44 available routes, 35 are classified as easy, and 9 are moderate. There are no difficult trails in the area, making it suitable for a wide range of hikers.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options in Glass Moss?
Yes, Glass Moss offers many family-friendly options due to the prevalence of easy trails and gentle elevations. Routes like the Floodgates Walk are particularly suitable, featuring minimal elevation gain over 4.1 miles (6.6 km), perfect for a leisurely outing with children.
Can I find circular walks in Glass Moss?
Absolutely. Many trails in Glass Moss are designed as loops, offering convenient circular walks. A popular option is the Rough Island loop, a short 1.1-mile (1.8 km) trail that takes you through coastal scenery.
What kind of natural landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Glass Moss?
Glass Moss features a diverse landscape primarily characterized by woodlands and coastal areas. You'll encounter established woods, paths near bodies of water, and scenic coastal views, particularly around areas like Rough Island.
Are there any historical landmarks or points of interest along the hiking routes?
Yes, several routes incorporate historical landmarks. Scrabo Tower is a prominent feature, with trails like Killynether Wood and Scrabo Tower leading directly to it, offering views of the surrounding area. Other nearby attractions include Sketrick Castle and Nendrum Monastery Ruins.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Glass Moss?
The trails in Glass Moss are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from over 40 reviews. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the variety of woodland and coastal scenery, and the accessibility of the routes for different skill levels.
Are there any longer hiking trails for more experienced hikers in Glass Moss?
While most trails are easy, some offer a bit more distance. The Scrabo Tower loop from Newtownards is an easy 6.28 km (3.9 miles) route that provides a longer experience with moderate elevation gain, suitable for those looking for a slightly extended walk.
Are there any places to explore near the hiking trails, such as lakes or nature reserves?
Yes, the area around Glass Moss offers several natural attractions. You can visit the WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre or explore the Kiltonga Nature Reserve Lake, both providing opportunities to observe local wildlife and enjoy tranquil waterscapes.
What is the typical duration for a hike in Glass Moss?
Hikes in Glass Moss vary in duration, with many shorter options available. For example, the Rough Island loop can be completed in about 28 minutes, while the Floodgates Walk typically takes around 1 hour and 39 minutes. There are also routes like the Scrabo Tower loop from Newtownards which can take closer to 1 hour and 50 minutes.
Are there any trails that offer views of Scrabo Tower without being too strenuous?
Yes, the Killynether Wood and Scrabo Tower trail is an easy 2.5-mile (4.0 km) path that leads through Killynether Wood and ascends towards Scrabo Tower, providing excellent views without being overly strenuous.
How many hiking routes are available in Glass Moss?
There are over 40 hiking routes available in Glass Moss, offering a diverse selection of trails through woodlands and along coastal areas for various preferences and fitness levels.
Most popular routes around Glass Moss
Most popular attractions around Glass Moss
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