Description
Garvagh Forest sits on the western edge of Garvagh village in County Londonderry, a 200-hectare working forest with a compact but well-built mountain bike network covering green, blue and red loops plus a skills area. In total, there is just over 10km of purpose-built MTB trail, all starting and finishing at the trailhead car park. The forest is managed by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council.
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Trails at Garvagh Forest are subject to periodic closures due to forestry operations and storm damage. Always check the Causeway Coast and Glens trail page for current closures before travelling.
The Trails
- Green Trail (1.3km): A short, easy circular loop close to the car park on gentle gradients. Promoted as a walking trail too, so expect other users. Ideal for families and first-time riders.
- Blue Trail (approx. 2.8km): Flowing singletrack with rolling terrain and forest-road links. Good for progression and mixed-ability groups. Note: Blue 1 section currently subject to storm damage closure — check before riding.
- Red Trail (approx. 4.7km): Uses the start of the blue before peeling off to circumnavigate the north-west of the forest. Technical features, rougher surfaces and a more demanding ride character. Note: Red 2B and Red 2C sections currently closed — check before riding.
- Pyramid Trail (approx. 1.3km): A short loop around the estate's 19th-century pyramid folly. Handy warm-up or family spin.
- Skills Area: Braided skills lines beside the trailhead with features of increasing difficulty. Note: currently closed due to storm damage — check before visiting.
Getting Here
- Primary car park: Garvagh Forest Car Park, Main Street, Garvagh, BT51 5EA. The forest entrance is on the western side of the A29, between Garvagh High School and the Ballinameen Bridge. The car park holds approximately 25 bays including two disabled spaces, plus picnic tables and an information board.
- No toilets at the MTB trailhead. The nearest public toilets are at the Jim Watt Sports Centre in Garvagh village.
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