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Best medium hikes in Northern Ireland
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Best medium hikes in Northern Ireland

Ready for a bit more of a challenge? These medium-difficulty hikes offer the perfect balance between effort and reward.

Here are some great hikes to explore in Northern Ireland.

Most popular hikes

1

Medium

Causeway Coast Way

County Antrim, Northern Ireland · star 4.9 (13) · 49.8 km · Est. 2 days

2

Medium

St Patrick's Way

County Armagh, Northern Ireland · star 4.9 (16) · 139.7 km · Est. 6 days

3

Medium

Slieve Doan

Down, Northern Ireland · star 4.9 (23) · 6.8 km · Est. 1 hrs 48 min

4

Medium

Slieve Binnian Carrick Little

County Down, Northern Ireland · star 5.0 (35) · 10.7 km · Est. 3 hrs 7 min

5

Medium

Mourne Way

County Down, Northern Ireland · star 4.8 (5) · 36.9 km · Est. 2 days

6

Medium

Slieve Gullion Loop

County Armagh, Northern Ireland · star 5.0 (12) · 13.7 km · Est. 3 hrs 34 min

7

Medium

Stairway to Heaven - Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail

County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland · star 5.0 (10) · 11.1 km · Est. 2 hrs 55 min

8

Medium

Cave Hill Country Park

County Antrim, Northern Ireland · star 5.0 (13) · 6.2 km · Est. 1 hrs 41 min

9

Medium

Hen - Cock and Pigeon Rock

County Down, Northern Ireland · star 4.9 (14) · 10.3 km · Est. 2 hrs 54 min

10

Medium

Slieve Binnian Mountains and Blue Lough Loop

County Down, Northern Ireland · star 5.0 (9) · 11.1 km · Est. 3 hrs 12 min

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Reviews for medium hikes in Northern Ireland

Bobby Scott avatar

Causeway Coast Way

Bobby Scott · reviewed over 3 years ago

star star star star star

Patrick Dawson avatar

St Patrick's Way

Patrick · reviewed about 2 months ago

star star star star star

David Holsgrove avatar

Slieve Doan

davidholsgrove · reviewed about 2 months ago

star star star star star

Ciaran Gaughan avatar

Slieve Binnian Carrick Little

HikingIreland · reviewed about 4 years ago

star star star star star

well maintained, an easy route to follow. The hike itself can is strenuous but not overly steep. The views are what make this hike special. in my opinion It’s far more impressive than donard. Fantastic hike, well worth it

Paul McArthur avatar

Mourne Way

Paul McArthur · reviewed almost 5 years ago

star star star star star

Superb trail through the Mourne Mountains. Best to do it over 2 days and enjoy a wild camp with great scenery.

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Northern Ireland

What is the climate like for hiking in Northern Ireland?

Northern Ireland's climate is temperate, with relatively mild winters and cool summers, making it possible to hike all year round. However, weather changes rapidly, with rain being a frequent occurrence, so waterproof gear and layered clothing are advisable. Spring and autumn are generally less crowded and offer delightful scenery, while winter hiking can be challenging due to shorter daylight hours and icy paths.
Summers are cooler than much of mainland UK, with temperatures averaging around 15-20°C (59-68°F), and providing longer daylight hours, ideal for lengthy hikes. Despite this, summer's unpredictability can lead to sudden rain showers, requiring hikers to be prepared for changing conditions.
The best time for hiking in Northern Ireland often falls between April and October, encompassing late spring, summer, and early autumn. This period offers the most stable weather conditions and picturesque views. Hikers can enjoy locations like the Mourne Mountains, the Giant's Causeway, and the Glenariff Forest Park during these months. For more detailed weather information, check the Met Office (https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/).

Do I need a permit to hike in Northern Ireland?

In Northern Ireland, the majority of hiking trails are open and free to the public without a permit. For specific areas or events, such as organised group hikes, you might need permission from the landowner or the relevant local authority. For assistance, contact Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland (https://www.outdoorrecreationni.com/).

Is wild camping allowed in Northern Ireland?

Wild camping in Northern Ireland is not strictly legal without the landowner's permission. However, it's often tolerated in higher land and mountain areas, provided campers follow "leave no trace" principles. If in doubt, contact Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland (https://www.outdoorrecreationni.com/) for advice.

Are there mountain rescue services in Northern Ireland?

In case of emergencies while hiking in Northern Ireland, you should contact the police by dialling 999 or 112 and ask for Mountain Rescue. They work with the PSNI to provide rescue services. More information is available at the Mountain Rescue Ireland website https://nimrt.org/

Are there dangerous plants in Northern Ireland?

Northern Ireland's hiking trails are graced with an array of flora, from wildflowers to ancient woodlands. Notable are the bluebells in spring, the purple heather on the mountains in late summer, and the oak and ash trees in forests. For more information, refer to the Woodland Trust (https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/).

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Northern Ireland?

While hiking in Northern Ireland, you may encounter wildlife such as red deer, foxes, and badgers. The summer months bring out insects like midges, especially near water. Always maintain a safe distance from wildlife and consider insect repellent. For more, visit the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/).

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