14.9 miles
River Blackwater Canoe Trail
This 20km trail is a superb flat water venue for canoeing enthusiasts of all abilities. From the head of the trail at Maydown Bridge the river meanders lazily through the countryside acting as the boundary line between the counties of Armagh and Tyrone. Copney Campsite was created in October 2013 to provide wild camping for canoeists wishing to split the trail into two manageable days. Nearby, situated on the banks of the river, you will find The Argory - one of the National Trust’s beautifully kept properties – the grounds and house of which are well worth a visit. The river comes to an end at Maghery Country Park, where it flows gently into Lough Neagh creating a breath taking view on a fine summer’s day. From here canoiests can join the Lough Neagh Canoe Trail and then the Lower Bann Canoe Trail situated at the north east end of the Lough. Coney Island which is situated in the south west corner of Lough Neagh about 1.1km from Maghery Country Park, is steeped in history with its motte and ancient round tower. Wild camping is permitted on the island. For those wishing to paddle from Maydown Bridge to Blackwater Town please note that due to its fast-flowing water and narrow channel, a reasonable skill level is required to complete this section of the trail. It is not suitable for novice paddlers without qualified instruction, and paddlers should be aware of the numerous over-hanging tree branches. Also after prolonged periods of dry weather this section can dry out, and is therefore not navigable at such times. For those who wish to know more about the area, there is onshore interpretation at points marked 1 - 9 on the map. Happy Paddling!
- Access Egress Points Full details can be found at http://www.canoeni.com/canoe-trails/river-blackwater/
- Suitable For The Blackwater Canoe Trail is a lazy meandering river and it is therefore suitable for all abilities. As with all Northern Ireland’s canoe trails, access is free and no licence is required. The section of river downstream of Blackwatertown provides slow moving river and therefore a superb venue for families or those embarking on their first canoe trip. The section between Maydown Bridge and Blackwatertown is either feast or famine. A ‘bump and scrape’ in low water or a Grade 2 after a period of rain fall so this is an area best left to the experts. Paddlers should also be aware of numerous overhanging branches. The nature of the river means shuttles are required, the vast majority of canoe providers will offer a shuttle service.
- Safety Canoeing is an adventure sport and as such should be treated with respect. If you are new to the sport, it is advisable to join an organized club or take some lessons with a canoeing provider, both options will offer expert coaching. Full details can be found at www.canoeni.com
