With snow set to fall across Northern Ireland and the UK in the coming week, the outdoor experts have named the best winter hikes for those seeking a wintry adventure in Northern Ireland.
New analysis from outdoor experts Blacks ranks the UK’s best winter hikes using winter search demand, winter mentions in AllTrails reviews, trail ratings, and difficulty level.
Slieve Binnian and North Tor Circular is the third-highest peak in Northern Ireland’s Mourne Mountains, and is the best hike in Northern Ireland and sixth in the UK, with a score of 7.22/10.
This trail takes around half a day to complete, and features excellent views of the Annalog Wood, as well as incredible views of the Silent Valley Reservoir and Ben Crom. The terrain is rocky and uneven underfoot and has an elevation gain of 98.85m per km, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
Meanwhile, the Scafell Pike trail from Wasdale Campsite was crowned the UK’s best winter hike, with a score of 9.11/10. Scafell Pike is the highest mountain in England, reaching a height of 978m and drawing in hikers who want to tick off the UK’s highest peaks.
Yr Wyddfa via the Llanberis Path takes 2nd place, with an overall score of 8.12/10, and ranks as the highest-placed winter hike in Wales. In winter conditions, the route offers a long, sustained ascent that rewards strong, steady pacing and good judgement, finishing with breathtaking views across Snowdonia from the summit.
The Old Man of Storr Circular rounds out the top three with a winter hike score of 7.90/10. This path is also the best in Scotland, and is arguably the most popular hike on the Isle of Skye.
Check out the complete top 10 list of the Best Winter Hikes in Northern Ireland and the UK below.
The Northern Ireland and UK’s Best Winter Hikes:
- Scafell Pike from Wasdale Campsite - Cumbria, England
- Yr Wyddfa via Llanberis Path - Gwynedd, Wales
- The Old Man of Storr Circular - Highland, Scotland
- The Quiraing Circuit - Highland, Scotland
- Ben Lomond Mountain Path - Glasgow City, Scotland
- Slieve Binnian and North Tor Circular - Newry, Mourne and Down, Northern Ireland
- Ben A'an - Stirling, Scotland
- Cadair Idris, Mynydd Moel, Craig Lwyd, and Tal-y-Llyn Circular - Gwynedd, Wales
- The Cobbler - Argyll and Bute, Scotland
- Pen y Fan Horseshoe - Merthyr Tydfil, Wales
“Winter offers some of the UK’s most striking mountain and forest conditions, but it also places greater demands on kit choice and route planning," said Natalie Wolfenden, author and hiking enthusiast at Blacks.
"Rapidly changing weather, reduced daylight and variable underfoot conditions mean winter hikes require a more disciplined approach than at other times of year.
“A robust layering system is essential, with moisture-wicking baselayers, effective mid-layers and a dependable insulated jacket to manage exposure over longer distances. Walking poles can provide valuable stability on icy, compacted or uneven terrain, particularly on steeper ascents and descents.
“In winter, preparation is critical. Earlier starts help maximise daylight, while close attention to forecasts and conditions at elevation can reduce risk. Carrying additional insulation, fuel and hydration is recommended, especially on exposed routes where conditions can deteriorate quickly and sticking to established lines is key when snow and ice make terrain less predictable.”
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