Banagher Glen and Forest: complete higher-return circuit

A complete circuit through Banagher Glen and Banagher Forest, using the higher return shown as option A in the published walking guide. Start at the public parking area at the end of Magheramore Road. Follow the surfaced access road into the wooded glen and take the left fork towards Banagher Dam. Continue beside Altnaheglish Reservoir, cross its upper river on the bridge and climb the forest tracks over the shoulder of Altnaheglish Hill. At the return junction, take the higher track towards Glenedra Water, cross the bridge downstream and descend to the original road and parking area.

This circuit is about 13 km; allow four and a half hours plus breaks. It includes several steep climbs and descents on tarmac and rough gravel tracks. The glen road has an unfenced steep drop beside it in places, so stay on the roadway and take care on wet or icy surfaces. Wear suitable footwear and carry waterproofs, food, water and a map, as the full forest circuit is not consistently waymarked.

The higher return uses a bridge and leaves out the longer southern loop with its unbridged stream crossing. Keep to the mapped circuit at track junctions. This is a working forest: watch for authorised vehicles, follow local forestry signs and do not pass a closed gate or work exclusion. Keep dogs under close control and respect the reserve's woodland and wildlife.

Parking and entry are free. Check the local gate notices before starting and return with daylight to spare; opening every day does not establish unrestricted overnight parking. Do not rely on toilets being available at the trailhead.

Route geometry: © OpenStreetMap contributors, licensed under ODbL. https://www.openstreetmap.org/copyright