Donard Forest Park 🌲 📍Newcastle, Co. Down A scenic woodland and river walk at the foot of the Mourne Mountains. We chose to take the Glen River trail, and then joined onto the Granite Trail, with a brief detour through the forest. The first section is a busy, steep walk up a stone path, with lots of passers by. The route offers a good mix of shaded forest paths, flowing river views and a taste of mountain terrain with the option to continue up the summit route to Slieve Donard. Be mindful of steep drops and keep dogs close/on lead when walking along the river. Our route took approx. 2 hours at a good pace, despite finding some sections quite challenging due to uneven terrain (and getting lost in the forest!). The walk can be shortened though by turning back earlier along the Glen River. The descent also has long stone steps and loose rocks that may be tricky for some. 🏠Facilities: -Free car park -Toilets in Donard Park (not in forest) 👍Pros: -Beautiful river scenery and views -A good introduction to the Mournes without a full mountain hike 👎Cons: -Car park fills up quickly -Trails not clearly marked -Can get busy and crowded during peak times -Lots of uneven and rocky/slippery surfaces -Not many bins 🐶Our ratings: Cleanliness 3/5 Space 3/5 Quietness 2/5 Off lead 3/5 Fun 3/5 🌻Reactive friendly: Not particularly as the entrance is very busy and popular with walkers and other dogs. The Glen River Trail is especially busy midday. The Granite Trail becomes quieter further out, but narrow paths mean close passing. Wildlife and livestock may be present. Not ideal for a low-encounter walk. 💜Perfect for: -Adventurous dogs who love a challenge -Dogs who enjoy longer, active walks -Dogs who are confident on uneven, rocky and steep terrain -Walkers who don't mind a muddy pup! Have you and your dog visited Donard Forest? 💾Save this post for your next walk! #nidogwalks #northernireland #dogwalkcommunity #dogsofnorthernireland #dogsofni