3.2 miles
Loop
Moderate
Garvagh Forest River Trail
Garvagh Forest offers several waymarked routes within the forest. Points of interest include an actual pyramid (folly created by Canning Family), Agivey River and splendid annual show of bluebells during May.
TRAIL INFORMATION
Covering over 200 hectares, Garvagh Forest is situated on the Western outskirts of Garvagh, with trees from over 80 years old to those only planted at the turn of the Century.
Garvagh Forest has a network of around eleven kilometres of paths and roads (including 2 waymarked walks) winding through both conifer and broadleaved trees and their associated vegetation, whether it is the spectacular Bluebells in April/May, the Foxgloves in July/August, or the Common Spotted Orchids in June/August. Also be on the watch for a plant called Herb Robert, or Stinky Bob as it is commonly called, which is a common plant flowering its pink flowers from April until the beginning of September. The alternative name becomes apparent when you take a sniff of the flower in the summer!
The forest is home not only to plants, but also many birds and animals, including squirrels, hares, finches and coal tits to name but a few. The newly created wildlife pond near the District Forest Office is quickly becoming a haven for many aquatic species; especially frogs, so keep an eye out for all manner of beasts and plants.
The final unusual habitat in Garvagh Forest is the Garvagh Pyramid, created as a burial chamber for Lord Garvagh in the 19th Century. Unfortunately the pyramid was never allowed to fulfil the task it was designed for and was sealed shut with no incumbent a number of years ago.
Garvagh Forest welcomes all the members of the family, with picnic tables and an Information Board situated at the Car Park. There is also a permanent orienteering course created by the North West Orienteering Club.
These walks are situated in a working forest environment and may be subject to diversion and closure from time to time.
TRAIL INFORMATION
Covering over 200 hectares, Garvagh Forest is situated on the Western outskirts of Garvagh, with trees from over 80 years old to those only planted at the turn of the Century.
Garvagh Forest has a network of around eleven kilometres of paths and roads (including 2 waymarked walks) winding through both conifer and broadleaved trees and their associated vegetation, whether it is the spectacular Bluebells in April/May, the Foxgloves in July/August, or the Common Spotted Orchids in June/August. Also be on the watch for a plant called Herb Robert, or Stinky Bob as it is commonly called, which is a common plant flowering its pink flowers from April until the beginning of September. The alternative name becomes apparent when you take a sniff of the flower in the summer!
The forest is home not only to plants, but also many birds and animals, including squirrels, hares, finches and coal tits to name but a few. The newly created wildlife pond near the District Forest Office is quickly becoming a haven for many aquatic species; especially frogs, so keep an eye out for all manner of beasts and plants.
The final unusual habitat in Garvagh Forest is the Garvagh Pyramid, created as a burial chamber for Lord Garvagh in the 19th Century. Unfortunately the pyramid was never allowed to fulfil the task it was designed for and was sealed shut with no incumbent a number of years ago.
Garvagh Forest welcomes all the members of the family, with picnic tables and an Information Board situated at the Car Park. There is also a permanent orienteering course created by the North West Orienteering Club.
These walks are situated in a working forest environment and may be subject to diversion and closure from time to time.
GETTING TO THE START
- Point of Interest A stone pyramid a short walk from the car park
- Facilities Refreshments and toilets available in Garvagh.
- Dog Policy Dogs are allowed. Must be kept under control.
- Accessibility Information
Accessibility Grade: Grade 4 Terrain: Gravel paths and forest roads Toilet Facility: No Signage: No - Getting to the Start Follow signs for Garvagh town: the Forest Car Park is on the western side of the main A29 Road, between Garvagh High School and the Ballinameen Bridge over the Agivey River
- Public Transport Translink – journeyplanner.translink.co.uk
- Trail Grade Moderate TRAIL GRADE DISCLAIMER
The trail grades shown on OutmoreNI.com and WalkNI.com are based on desk-based assessments of available trail information. The categories—Easy, Moderate, Strenuous, and Very Strenuous—follow the Sustainable Trails Development Guide grading system.
These grades are provided as a general guide to help users choose trails that may be suitable for them. They are not a substitute for official, on-site grading or safety information provided by the relevant land manager, which may differ from the information on these websites.
Outdoor activities involve inherent risks, including the risk of injury, death, property damage, and other hazards. By using information from OutmoreNI.com and WalkNI.com, you acknowledge that you do so at your own risk. OutmoreNI.com and WalkNI.com accept no responsibility or liability for any loss, injury, or damage arising from the use of this information.
Conditions on trails can change, and the actual environment may differ from what is described online. Users should always exercise their own judgment, take appropriate precautions, and remain responsible for their own safety and conduct at all times.
All information provided on OutmoreNI.com and WalkNI.com is intended as a guide only and should be used alongside your own experience, awareness, and careful decision-making.
Routes with a varying range of climbs and descents, loose and uneven surfaces. Expect a few, large obstacles such as stiles and steps. A good level of fitness and self-reliance is recommended.
