Binevenagh Forest
The Binevenagh Forest overspreads the broad top of Binevenagh, the mountain in County Londonderry whose plunging crags look out towards the shore of Lough Foyle. The cliffs of Binevenagh have been classified as an Area of Special Scientific Interest due to their geological and geomorphological features, and the corresponding vegetation.
The forest extands over much of the summit plateau and runs down the dip slope of the mountain to the valley of the River Roe. It is actively managed for forestry but is opened to the public.
The top of Binevenagh, at its cliffs in particular, is a fine place to see soaring birds, and gliders from the local gliding club, making use of the up draughts caused by the cliffs.
Binevenagh Lake
Binevenagh Lake is a broad and pretty tarn atop the mountain and within the forest, from whose baanks are wide views over the countryside down to Lough Foyle and across to Donegal on the opposite shire.
The lake is stocked with rainbow trout, is managed by the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure.
Activities
The lower areas of Binevenagh Forest, at Ballycarton beside the River Roe, are linked with the Sustrans National Cycle Network Route 93, running from the Leighery Road through mixed mature larch, spruce, fir, pine and broadleaved woods.
Though the forest is open, cccasionally there is restricted access to parts for forest operations.
