Walking in forests

Walking is a highly popular activity in Northern Ireland forests. There are maps, apps, guides and booklets containing various walks, trails and activity information which you can download.

Walking your dog

Members of the public are welcome to bring their dogs into forests and woodlands, provided they are kept under proper control and not allowed to cause annoyance to other forest users or to wildlife. Dog owners should also act responsibly and clear up after their pet to avoid causing problems for other walkers.

Trails maps

Trails maps contain details of where you can walk in forests.

Graded paths

Some forests have paths which are colour-graded, according to the degree of accessibility of the facilities.

White paths

universally accessible
level
edges clearly defined
no overhanging branches
hard surface with few loose stones
rest areas every 100 metres
way-finding markers every 100 metres
distance to go markers every 100 metres

Blue paths

no steps or gullies
slight gradient (1:12 max)
edges generally defined
no overhanging branches
firm surface with some loose material
rest areas generally every 300 metres
way-finding markers every 300 metres
distance to go markers every 300 metres

Red paths

steps, gullies, tree roots
moderate gradient (1:4)
generally undefined edges
overhanging branches
broken surface material
some rest areas at irregular intervals

Black paths

Steps, gullies, fences, streams, boulders
Severe gradients
Generally undefined edges
Overhanging branches
All types of terrain
Some rest areas at irregular intervals
Way-finding markers at trail junctions
Distance to go markers at trail junctions

Trails maps for forests in County Antrim

Trails maps for forests in County Armagh

Trails maps for forests in County Down

Trails maps for forests in County Fermanagh

Trails maps for forests in County Tyrone

Forests in Northern Ireland

You can find an index of all forests in Northern Ireland which are managed by the Forest Service, on the 'Public forests in Northern Ireland' page.

Public forests in Northern Ireland

Walking app

Whilst not specific to forests in Northern Ireland, 'Take a Hike' is a walking app (available on iPhone and Android) which aims to help visitors search for and share information on the best walking trails in Northern Ireland.