Ards Forest Park

Explore the Best of Nature and Family Fun at Ards Forest Park's Beaches and Wilderness Trails

Nestled in the northern region of Donegal, Ireland, Ards Forest Park is a natural paradise that attracts visitors from all over the world. With over 480 hectares of ancient woodland, pristine beaches, and stunning scenery, Ards Forest Park offers a wide range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Parking at Ards Forest Park is paid, and it accepts only cashless payments like cards or smartphone payments, but it is reasonable and well worth it for the amenities provided. The park offers clean and well-maintained toilet facilities, as well as a children's playground and picnic areas for visitors to enjoy. During the summertime, visitors can also grab a cup of coffee or a snack at the on-site coffee shop. The picnic areas are situated throughout the park, offering visitors the chance to enjoy a snack or meal while surrounded by the park's natural beauty. The staff also ensures that the park is kept clean and litter-free, making it a pleasant and enjoyable experience for all visitors. The car park opens from 8 am to 9 pm ( April to September) and 8 am to 5 pm (October to March).

Family Fun in the Great Outdoors: Discovering Ards Forest Park's Trails and Beaches.

Ards Forest Park offers a wonderful opportunity for families to spend a day together in the great outdoors. With its combination of nature, beaches, and family-friendly facilities, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Children can play in the playground, explore the forest and spot wildlife, and enjoy a picnic with their parents. Parents can relax in the beautiful surroundings, take a stroll on the beach, or go for a hike on one of the park's many trails. The park is also a great place to ride bikes, and families can rent bicycles from nearby shops to explore the trails at their own pace. Spending a day in Ards Forest Park is not only a fun way to bond with family but also a great way to appreciate the beauty of nature.

Walking and Hiking Trails at Ards Forest Park.

There are several hiking trails at Ards Forest Park, ranging in difficulty from easy to moderate. The trails wind through the park's beautiful forests and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Marine Trail (2.5 km, 1.0 hr, easy)

The Ards Forest Park Marine Trail is a great option for visitors who want to experience the park's coastal beauty in an easy and accessible way. This 2.5km trail begins at the car park and is mostly on a wooden path, making it suitable for people of all ages and abilities. Along the way, hikers can enjoy stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the nearby Sheep's Heaven Bay. The trail is also wheelchair accessible, making it a great choice for visitors with disabilities. Whether you're looking for a relaxing stroll or a scenic hike, the Ards Forest Park Marine Trail is definitely worth exploring.

Salt Marsh Trail (0.5 km, multi-access, 1 hr)

This trail is accessible for all and is not a loop, beginning at the car park and covering a distance of 0.5 kilometres, taking around 1 hour to complete. The trail is mainly on a tarmac path, making it easy for people with disabilities or those with strollers. Along the way, visitors can enjoy beautiful views of the lake, with birds and wildlife in the surrounding area. The trail ends up on a spectacular viewpoint, allowing visitors to take in the natural wonder of the park. Whether you are looking for a quick walk or a more extended hike, the Ards Forest Park Salt Marsh Trail is an excellent choice for nature lovers of all ages.

Sand Dune Trail (1.0 km, multi-access, 1.5 hrs)

The Sand Dune Trail in Ards Forest Park is a 1.0 km route. Beginning at the car park, the trail leads visitors along a forest track, path, and boardwalk as it follows the coastline. Along the way, hikers will pass through a small wood of conifer and broadleaf trees before reaching the sand dune complex with its breathtaking views over Clonmass Bay and the Back Strand. The trees and sands have been sculpted by the salt-laden winds that whip down Sheep Haven Bay, creating a unique landscape that is both rugged and beautiful. The Sand Dune Trail is a must-see for anyone visiting Ards Forest Park, offering a glimpse into the power and beauty of nature.

Nature Trail (1.5 km, 1.0 hrs, easy, ascent 50m)

The Ards Forest Park Nature Trail is a delightful 1.5km walk that can be completed in just one hour. The trail starts on a forest track and path adjacent to the Ards Forest car park. As you walk, you'll pass through coniferous plantations close to the seashore along Rinnalack Point and Jeffry's Lough. After rising to some height, the trail offers a splendid view of the Back Strand. Along the way, keep an eye out for a variety of flora and fauna, including wildflowers and birdlife. It's a great way to experience the natural beauty of Ards Forest Park.

Red Trail (13.0 km, 4 hrs, strenuous, ascent 100m)

The Ards Forest Red Trail is the longest and most challenging trail in Ards Forest Park, spanning 13 kilometres and taking around 4 hours to complete. The trail covers the perimeter of the park and provides access to a diverse range of habitats, each with unique flora and fauna. This trail starts on forest roads and tracks, gradually changing from level ground at the seashore to more challenging terrain at higher elevations. Hikers can expect to see breathtaking hills, forests, and coastal scenery. The Red Trail is perfect for experienced hikers looking for a challenge and an opportunity to immerse themselves in the stunning wilderness of Ards Forest Park.

Green Walk (3.5 km, 1.5 hrs, easy, ascent 100 m)

The Ards Forest Park Green Walk is a short but scenic trail that takes the walker through some of the higher parts of the park. Covering a distance of 3.5 kilometres, the trail is relatively easy and takes approximately 1.5 hours to complete. The route follows forest tracks and passes through semi-natural oak woodland, providing visitors with a glimpse of the park's diverse flora and fauna. As the trail winds its way around Loughs Lily and Manus, walkers can enjoy panoramic views of Donegal's rugged Atlantic coastline. The Green Walk is a great option for those seeking a leisurely stroll through the beautiful natural surroundings of Ards Forest Park.

Yellow Walk (4.0 km, 1.5 hrs, easy, ascent 50 m)

The Ards Forest Park Yellow Walk is a pleasant 4.0 km loop trail that takes around 1.5 hours to complete with an ascent of 50 m. This trail starts from the Ards Forest Park car park and takes the walker on a forest road through mixed-age coniferous plantations. As you pass Rinnalack Hill, the scenery opens up to spectacular views of the rugged Atlantic coastline. Continuing on, you'll reach the shores of Lough Lilly. The peaceful waters and the blooming lilies create a serene ambience. This easy trail is suitable for all ages and is perfect for a relaxing walk in nature.

Heritage trail (5.0 km, 2.0 hrs, moderate, ascent 50 m)

The Ards Forest Heritage Trail is a 5.0 km loop that takes approximately 2.0 hours to complete. This moderate trail offers an ascent of 50 m and is a great way to explore the history and mythology of the area. As you follow the forest road and path, you will visit a site associated with the myth of Diarmuid and Grainne's bed, a ring fort, a mass rock, and a holy well. Along the way, there are spectacular views of the surrounding countryside and coast, making it a great trail for history and nature enthusiasts alike. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning views and historic sites on this fascinating trail.

Binngorm Trail (3.5 km, 2.0 hrs, strenuous, ascent 50 m)

The Ards Forest Binngorm Trail is a strenuous hike that covers a distance of 3.5 km and an ascent of 50 meters. This trail is not a loop but can be combined with the Red Trail to create a longer loop. The Binngorm Trail follows forest roads and paths, taking you around the wooded Ards Hill and along the edge of Binngorm Point. Along the way, you'll be treated to stunning views of Sheep Haven Bay, and you can even stroll on several sandy beaches. Keep an eye out for the standing stone, which adds to the historical and cultural significance of this trail. The hike takes around 2 hours to complete and is suitable for experienced hikers looking for a challenge.

Explore the Beauty of Ards Forest Park by Mixing the Trails

The great thing about the Ards Forest Park trails is that they can be mixed and matched to create larger or smaller loops for a more customized hiking experience. And don't worry about getting lost or confused, as there are plenty of signs and markings along the way to help guide you. So whether you want to take a leisurely stroll through the Nature Trail or challenge yourself on the Red Trail, you can easily create a route that suits your needs and abilities. Just remember to bring appropriate footwear and plenty of water, and enjoy the beauty and diversity of this stunning park.

Cycling on the forest trails.

Ards Forest Park offers a unique opportunity to explore its diverse landscapes on a bicycle. The park has designated bike trails that weave through the forest, providing visitors with a thrilling and scenic ride. Cycling is a great way to experience the beauty of the park while getting exercise and fresh air. Whether you are an experienced cyclist or a beginner, the trails at Ards Forest Park offer a fun and exciting adventure for all skill levels. So, bring your own bike or rent one from the nearby town and hit the trails for an unforgettable experience.

Ards Forest Park boasts a stunning coastline with some of the most beautiful and unspoiled beaches.

You can enjoy going on the Marine Trail or the Sand Dune Trail, which will lead you to beaches. Lucky Shell Beach is a secluded and picturesque beach located in Ards Forest Park, but it is far from the main car park, so prepare for a walk.

Visitors to Ards Forest Park can also enter the park from another entry point known as Ards Friary.

This is a popular route for those who want to explore the park from a different entrance allowing them to enjoy Sheep's Heaven Bay and the forests from a different angle. Ards Friary is a historic site that features a Franciscan Friary dating back to the 14th century, along with a holy well and a cemetery. From Ards Friary, visitors can take a scenic walk through the forest trails leading to beaches and other areas of interest in the park. This entry point also offers a quieter, more peaceful atmosphere for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy the tranquillity of the forest.

Ards Forest Park is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in nature, wildlife, outdoor activities or coming to Donegal to spend quality time. With its stunning scenery, pristine beaches, and diverse range of wildlife, it's no wonder this park attracts visitors from all over the world.

Tips for Hiking at Ards Forest Park:

Before embarking on a hike at Ards Forest Park, it is important to be prepared. Here are some tips to help make your hike enjoyable and safe:

1. Bring a camera: Ards Forest Park is home to some of the most stunning scenery in Ireland. Be sure to bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views.

1. Wear comfortable shoes with good traction: The trails at Ards Forest Park can be steep and rocky, so it is important to wear shoes that will provide good traction.

1. Bring plenty of water and snacks: Hiking can be thirsty work, so it is important to bring plenty of water and snacks to keep your energy levels up.

1. Dress in layers: The weather in Donegal can be unpredictable, so it is important to dress in layers to ensure that you are prepared for any changes in temperature.

1. Stay on the marked trails: The trails at Ards Forest Park are marked for a reason. Staying on the marked trails will ensure that you stay safe and avoid damaging the fragile ecosystem.

1. Protect yourself from insects: Ticks and midges are present in the park, particularly in the summer months. Recommended to wear pants, use insect repellent, and perform a thorough tick check after your hike.

1. Respect nature: When visiting Ards Forest Park, it's essential to respect the park's natural environment. Be sure to take your rubbish with you and avoid disturbing the park's wildlife.

Useful Trail Links:

1. Binngorm Trail
2. Heritage Trail
3. Yellow Trail
4. Nature Trail
5. Red Trail
6. Sand Dune Trail
7. Green Trail
8. Marine Trail