Gortin Glen Forest Park
within 5km of the North West Trail
Gortin Glen Forest Park is situated six miles north of Omagh at the western gateway to the Sperrin mountains. This popular Forest Park was first opened in 1967, embracing some 1534 hectares of ground it has the distinction of being the first Forest Park to be established in a purely coniferous wood land and was originally planted for the sole purpose of timber production.
Until the end of the sixteenth century Gortin Glen was covered by a native forest of oak, birch, hazel and rowan. Remnants of this ancient forest can be seen in Boorin Wood outside Gortin village. During the seventeenth century, like many parts of Ireland, the forest was cleared to create agricultural land.
A major recreational feature of Gortin Glen Forest Park is the five mile long drive which offers some breathtaking views. A number of vista parks have been created allowing the visitor to take time to enjoy the magnificent scenery.
