8k Run Gortin: Challenging Loop Through Gortin Glen Park

Route Overview & Local Insights

Tackle the rugged beauty of County Tyrone with this 8.4km circuit through Gortin Glen Forest Park. This "SL" category course is a true tester for the lungs and legs, boasting a significant 364m ascent that takes you to the soaring heights of Mullaghcarn. While the route begins with roughly 30% paved surfaces on the Pollan Trail, it quickly transitions into a demanding mountain run with sections exceeding 500m in elevation. Runners can expect a mix of forest tracks and exposed hillside paths that offer breathtaking panoramic views of the Sperrins, provided you’ve got the grit to power through the steep, hilly gradients that define the middle section of this loop.

Gortin Glen Forest Park, often described as the "gateway to the Sperrins," serves as the epicentre of outdoor adventure in Northern Ireland’s west. The peak of Mullaghcarn is steeped in local lore and is easily identified by its massive transmitter mast, which serves as a beacon for miles around. As you descend via the historic Ulster Way, you are retracing part of a 600-mile long-distance trail that connects some of the most iconic landscapes in the country. Given the mountain's height, local runners know that the weather can shift from clear skies to thick mist in minutes—always respect the peak and come prepared for the elements.