Glenariff Forest Park, Glenariffe, near Ballymena, County Antrim, Northern Ireland, BT44 0QX

Glenariff Forest Park Waterfall Walk

route · Woodland walk

Place photograph

7.2

Wildland

1–2 hours

Time

Paid

Cost

Atmospheric

Feel

ForestValleyWalkersFamiliesPhotographers

Why it's Wildland

7.2

The route follows a wooded river gorge past the Ess-na-Larach and Ess-na-Crub waterfalls, with the forest setting and the sound of falling water doing most of the storytelling.

This is more than a forest stroll: a river gorge, several waterfalls and a timber walkway make the water the focus of a compact, distinctive walk. Expect uneven or muddy sections, and consider an early or midweek visit to avoid the busiest times.

Atmospheric · Dramatic · Wild

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Glenariff Forest Park, Glenariffe, near Ballymena, County Antrim, Northern Ireland, BT44 0QX

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The experience

Follow the Waterfall Trail through the forest and alongside the river to see Ess-na-Larach and Ess-na-Crub. The route guide describes it as an easy return walk, but notes uneven or muddy sections; sturdy footwear is sensible.

Things to do

Walk the waterfall trail

Follow the forest route beside the water and timber walkway, with views of Ess-na-Larach and Ess-na-Crub.

About 1–1.5 hours

Look for the two named waterfalls

Keep an eye out for Ess-na-Larach and Ess-na-Crub along the Waterfall Trail.

Make a day of it

Quick escape · About 1–1.5 hours; 2.2 miles return, according to the route guide.

Quick Escape: the waterfall trail

01
Start at the trailhead identified by the route guide.
02
Follow the Waterfall Trail through the forest and along the water’s edge.
03
Look out for Ess-na-Larach and Ess-na-Crub, then return by the route.

Half day · Half day

Make a half day of it: waterfalls and forest trails

01
Allow time for the Waterfall Trail, taking care on uneven or muddy sections.
02
Spend additional time enjoying the waterfall views and forest setting.
03
The supplied Tripadvisor description mentions a Scenic Trail and picnic areas; confirm current availability and route details before adding either to your plans.

Hidden details

Notice how the path meets the river — The timber walkway follows the water’s edge through the wooded gorge, offering a close view of the river and waterfalls.

When to go

· Early in the day, or midweek, for a quieter visit.

The supplied sources do not establish a best season.

Sections may be uneven or muddy. Sturdy walking boots are recommended by the supplied route guide.

The route

ascent: 538 ft, according to the route guide
surface: Timber walkway and forest paths; sections may be uneven or muddy
distance: 2.2 miles return
duration: 1–1.5 hours
difficulty: Easy, according to the route guide
waymarking: Waymarked routes are described in the supplied Tripadvisor listing; confirm current signage on site.
route shape: Return route
start point: Trailhead at 55.015478, -6.108169, as given by the route guide.
parking start: Parking arrangements are not confirmed in the supplied route details; check before visiting.

Ess-na-Larach waterfall
Ess-na-Crub waterfall
Wooded river gorge
Timber walkway beside the water

What to look for

Watch for the Ess-na-Larach and Ess-na-Crub waterfalls, and notice how the timber walkway follows the water through the wooded gorge.

Best time to go

Check current conditions before visiting; no source-backed seasonal peak is available.

Arrive early or visit midweek for a quieter walk, according to the supplied route guide.

How long to spend

1–2 hours

Perfect for

Walkers · Families · Photographers

Route at a glance

Duration

1–2 hours

Terrain

Forest, Valley

Parking / start

The route guide gives directions to a trailhead but the supplied sources do not confirm parking arrangements; check before visiting.

Before you go

Google Maps

Address

Glenariffe, Ballymena BT44 0QX

Practical information

Opening & access

A waymarked waterfall walk in Glenariff Forest Park, following forest paths and a timber walkway beside waterfalls. A route guide reports a £5 vehicle entrance fee; check current access arrangements before travelling.

Check before visiting

Parking

The route guide gives directions to a trailhead but the supplied sources do not confirm parking arrangements; check before visiting.

Check before visiting

Toilets

Check before visiting

Food & drink

A tea house is mentioned in the supplied Tripadvisor description; check whether it is open before visiting.

Check before visiting

Dogs

Check before visiting

Accessibility