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Discover the thrill of the Castlewellan Mountain Bike Trails, a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Northern Ireland. Nestled in the heart of Castlewellan Forest Park, these expertly designed trails offer something for everyone—from gentle family-friendly loops to adrenaline-fueled singletrack challenges. Winding through ancient woodland, lakeside paths, and scenic hill climbs, riders are treated to stunning views of Castlewellan Lake and the Mourne Mountains. With clearly marked routes, trailhead and convenient bike hire on-site, it’s the perfect place to explore nature on two wheels. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced rider, Castlewellan delivers unforgettable cycling adventures. Find out more about Castlewellan Forest Park here.
Castlewellan Mountain Bike Trails have undergone significant updates due to the impact of Storm Éowyn:
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Red Trail: Sections between markers 12 and 43 have reopened with some diversions in place. There is a diversion in place at marker 43 - proceed to marker 62 and continue along the fire road back to marker 12. Please exit the trails via the lake path. Riders should proceed with caution and follow on-site signage.
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Black Trails: All black-grade trails remain closed until further notice.
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Crow Road: This section is currently inaccessible.
Visitors are urged to adhere strictly to the safety signage and please DO NOT access closed trails to ensure personal safety and to aid the ongoing restoration.
(Latest update: Friday 4 April 2025 at 5pm)
Castlewellan Forest Park, with green, blue and red grade trails (black options remain closed until further notice) is a must-visit for mountain bikers of all ages and abilities.
GREEN TRAIL - 4km Green Trail - Allow 30 minutes
This gentle circular trail hugs the lakeshore and passes past under the shadow of Castlewellan Castle. The biking is very easy with only one slight gradient incline on the north side of the lake.
This wide trail is ideal for young families and/or those giving mountain biking a go for the very first time.
BLUE TRAIL - 4.5km Blue Trail - Allow 45 minutes
This easy going blue trail begins by running parallel to Castlewellan Lake on an elevated singetrack trail with incredible panoramic views before rejoining the gentler green route back to the trailhead.
The first half of this trail undulates through woodland on singletrack with a number of rollers thrown in to make for a fun trail, perfect for those looking develop to their bike handling skills.
RED TRAIL - 19km Red Trail - Allow 2 hours
The red trail enjoys the initial flowing singletrack and incredible views found on the blue trail before splitting off and ascending behind Castlewellan Castle and past a number of little known smaller lakes.
The fun then really begins when both the red and black options descend either side of Slievenaslat before sweeping back around to Cypress Pond.
There is a further black option 'Dolly's Chute' set to get your heart racing with 'Moorish Return' always a crowd pleaser for the homeward leg back to the trailhead.
BLACK OPTION - DOLLY’S CHUTE - Distance of Dolly's Chute is 0.9 miles, route type is a loop and the terrain is forest, off public road (currently closed due to storm damage).
THE GREAT ESCARPE - Public roads: Off Public Road
Getting to the start: The Great Escarpe is reached via waypoint 31 off the red trail before White Water Rapide.
Traffic/Terrain: Visitors may encounter Forest Service vehicles or timber lorries along the trail. During the fishing season (March to November), anglers' cars may also be present. The trail follows well-maintained forest and mountain bike paths, ensuring a generally smooth and accessible route.
