Glenariff Forest Park, Glens of Antrim

Grade: Moderate / Challenging (mainly because of the distance)

We're heading up the Antrim coast to Glenariff, the Queen of the Glens! Glenariff is one of the nine Antrim Glens with gorgeous waterfalls and stunning views even as far as the Mull of Kintyre (visibility permitting).

Click on the map above and that'll also get you directions to Glenariff Forest Park from wherever you're coming from. I'd advise Belfast drivers to leave at about 10am to get there for 11.30. Anyone else, we'll meet you up there.

Bring waterproofs, sturdy boots and warm clothing. Poles are useful if you use them.

The plan is to do both the Waterfall trail (3km which has some steep parts and steps) combined with the Scenic trail (9km including a climb with 200m elevation gain over about 1km). We'll see the best of Glenariff on our visit. Although long, this is a very rewarding day out suitable for anyone of moderate fitness.

We'll meet up in Glenariff Forest Park, which has a parking charge of ~£5 per car (another good reason to car share please). We should be getting back to Belfast at about 5pm.

Please bring a packed lunch or snacks for the walk. We will stop for a snack along the way. We can go get coffee/munchies afterwards in Laragh Lodge if you wish. It's got very popular there and parking is limited, hence the change of meeting point to Glenariff Forest Park.

Post up if you need a lift - someone usually obliges. Passengers pay drivers £5 for the drive up. Drivers please take the payment as it makes things equal in the group for everyone. I'm going from SE Belfast for anyone needing a lift from there.

The walk costs £1 for paid up members and £6 for non-members.

As always my number is 07583 042962.

Don't worry about calling/texting me on the morning if you're not going. Just update your RSVP is enough. I won't think bad of you - honest! It's better if my phone is free for people going on the walk who need to contact me.

See you all up there

Maria