Walk

Glenariff Forest Park and Waterfall Trail

Northern Ireland

Dog Friendly Rating:9/10The 'Queen of the Glens' waterfall trail through Glenariff's dramatic gorge with the Ess-na-Larach and Ess-na-Crub waterfalls.

Glenariff Forest Park sits in the Queen of the Antrim Glens, and its Waterfall Trail is one of Northern Ireland's most exciting short walks. The route follows the river through a steep-sided gorge past two significant waterfalls on wooden boardwalks that carry you directly above rushing water, with spray in the air and a dense canopy overhead creating genuine sensory intensity. Beyond the gorge, wider forest trails extend the walk through mature woodland where the pace relaxes. Routes range from 3.2 to 8 km depending on which trails you combine, with 150 metres of elevation gain on the full circuit.

This dog friendly walk is tremendously stimulating for dogs who respond to water, scent and varied terrain. The sound and spray of the waterfalls, the damp woodland floor and the constant presence of the river create an environment that keeps dogs engaged at every step. Off-lead potential is moderate on the wider forest trails, though leads are sensible on the boardwalk sections where the path narrows above the gorge. Livestock risk is low throughout, and the easy-to-moderate terrain suits dogs of varying fitness levels. The forest park has good facilities including parking and picnic areas.

At a Glance

Distance: 3.2 km (2.0 miles)
Difficulty: Easy
Duration: 1 hr 30 min
Walk Type: Woodland, River, Waterfall
Route Type: Circular
Off Lead Potential: Moderate
Livestock Risk: Low
Facilities: Visitor centre, Cafe, Toilets
Parking: Glenariff Forest Park car park - charged

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Glenariff Forest Park and Waterfall Trail dog friendly?
Glenariff Forest Park and Waterfall Trail scores a strong 9/10 for dog friendliness, and it's easy to see why , the combination of rushing waterfalls, damp woodland, and varied terrain makes it a genuinely exciting outing for most dogs. Livestock risk is low throughout, and the easy-to-moderate terrain means dogs of varying fitness levels can enjoy it. The forest park also has good practical facilities including parking, a café, and toilets.
Can dogs be off lead at Glenariff Forest Park and Waterfall Trail?
Off-lead potential is moderate at Glenariff , the wider forest trails beyond the gorge offer reasonable freedom where your dog can roam and explore at a relaxed pace. On the boardwalk sections through the gorge itself, leads are sensible as the path narrows directly above rushing water, so it's worth keeping dogs close in those stretches for safety.
What should I know before visiting Glenariff Forest Park and Waterfall Trail with my dog?
The Waterfall Trail follows the river through a steep-sided gorge on wooden boardwalks, with spray, noise and a dense canopy overhead , it's a sensory-rich environment that many dogs find highly stimulating, so be prepared for an engaged and excited dog. Routes range from 3.2 to 8 km depending on which trails you combine, with up to 150 metres of elevation gain on the full circuit. Parking is available at Glenariff Forest Park car park, though a charge applies, and there's a café and visitor centre on site if you want to make a day of it.