Spring is one of the best times of year to enjoy walking in Northern Ireland’s hills, mountains and forest parks. From the Mourne Mountains to quieter upland trails and woodland paths, the landscape begins to open up again after winter.
The evenings are longer, there are signs of spring all around us, and we’re finally ready to move again.
The season of renewal is the ideal time to build up your fitness and confidence and spend more time outdoors. There’s no need to aim for the summit of Slieve Donard just yet. Take time and gradually build your fitness level and navigation skills, and don’t forget to stop and take in the view along the way.
Spring walking in Northern Ireland: a quick guide
If you are planning to get outdoors this spring, here are a few simple starting points for a great Green Therapy experience:
- Best beginner locations. Forest parks and managed mountain environments such as Tollymore Forest Park and Silent Valley Mountain Park offer well-marked trails and manageable gradients.
- Good step-up walks. Divis and the Black Mountain or Kilbroney Park introduce more elevation and open mountain terrain while still following established routes.
- Typical spring conditions. Weather can change quickly in upland areas, and underfoot conditions can vary from firm paths to wet or boggy sections.
- Essential kit. Waterproof jacket, insulating layer, sturdy footwear with grip, hat and gloves, water and snacks, as well as a daysack to put items in.
Where to walk in spring in Northern Ireland
Forest parks and managed mountain environments offer the perfect starting point for groups with mixed experience levels, limited navigation confidence, or varied fitness levels:
- Tollymore Forest Park has waymarked trails and varying gradients. Follow the River Trail for a gentle riverside walk, or take on the more challenging Mountain Trail for a mix of forest paths, open views and changing terrain.
- Silent Valley Mountain Park is well known for its two vast reservoirs. The Ben Crom Dam Walk follows a tarmac road surrounded by the peaks of the High Mournes. Climb the 260 steps to the dam wall for impressive views of the surrounding mountains and reservoirs. If you’re looking for more of a challenge, the shorter but steeper Mountain Trail or Challenge Trail will take you through upland habitats and woodland areas while offering glimpses into the park’s history.
Signs of spring to look out for on the trail
Spring walking also brings its own seasonal highlights. As you move through forest parks and upland trails, keep an eye out for:
- Bluebells and woodland wildflowers appearing in sheltered forests such as Tollymore
- Returning birdlife, including skylarks and curlews across open upland areas, as well as mountain hares on the moorland.
- Deer and red squirrels can also be spotted in Donard and Tollymore Forrest parks
- New lambs and grazing livestock on farmland and mountain slopes
- Clear mountain streams and full reservoirs, often at their most dramatic after winter rainfall
Mountain Guide and Founder of Positive Steps Outdoors, Alan Elwood, says, “Taking time to notice these small changes in the landscape is an important part of the outdoor experience. Slowing down and observing what is happening around us is one of the simplest ways to reconnect with nature and recharge mentally.”
Building confidence walking in mountain terrain
More exposed locations can be challenging in spring. Higher ground can be boggy and wet; the wind chill can still be sharp. If you feel ready to explore slightly higher terrain, there are plenty of locations that offer both challenge and reward.
- Divis and the Black Mountain provide far-reaching views over Belfast and the surrounding countryside. You might encounter grazing cattle, see nature conservation in action and experience open heath and blanket bog habitats. The Summit Trail and Ridge Trail lead onto higher ground using stone tracks and boardwalks.
- Kilbroney Park offers a route that gradually introduces more elevation. The Fallows Trail leaves the shelter of Rostrevor Forest and climbs onto the lower slopes of the Mourne Mountains. From here you can summit Slievemeen and Slieve Martin, visit the famous Cloughmore Stone and enjoy panoramic views across Carlingford Lough.
- Slieve Doan from Ott Car Park is another popular route, with amazing 360-degree panoramic views.The route follows a relatively straightforward, albeit occasionally boggy, approach with a short, steep, rocky scramble to the summit.
Dressing for the occasion: what to wear on a spring walk
Weather conditions can change quickly in spring, so it’s important to come prepared. Mountaineering Ireland publishes a helpful Kit List for hillwalking and we provide lots of helpful information on our website.
As a minimum for the walks listed above, we recommend:
- A waterproof outer layer
- A light insulating mid-layer
- Quick-drying trousers (not jeans)
- Walking boots or sturdy footwear with grip
- Hat and gloves for exposed ground
- Water and snacks
- Daysack with secure closure to carry items
Having the right kit helps you stay comfortable and safe, and means you can focus on enjoying the experience rather than worrying about the conditions.
Before you go
Spring weather in the hills can change quickly. Before setting out, check the forecast, plan your route, and make sure someone knows where you are going. Even on shorter walks, daylight and visibility can change rapidly at higher elevations.
At Positive Steps Outdoors, our mission is to facilitate self-care by enabling people to escape to outdoor destinations, engaging in ‘green therapy’ collectively to benefit their mental and physical wellbeing. We hope you enjoy Spring in Northern Ireland’s forest parks and mountains.