Overview
The Carey River is a modest but striking watercourse in the north of County Antrim. It begins high in the mixed woodlands of Ballypatrick Forest, where the northern slopes of the Antrim Hills drop sharply toward the coast. From its source, the river runs north-westward, carving a narrow, steep-sided glen before meeting the Glenmakeeran River and eventually reaching the sea at the mouth of the Glenshesk River near Ballycastle. Though short in length, the river’s course offers a concentrated slice of the rugged, verdant landscape that defines this part of Northern Ireland, far removed from the busier coastal routes.
The River & Its Landscape
Historically, the Carey River provided a reliable water source for the small farming communities that dotted the Antrim Hills for centuries. Its gentle flow through the forest made it a natural boundary marker and a quiet gathering place for locals. While there are no major recorded historical events tied directly to the watercourse, its presence has shaped the local terrain and continues to define the character of the surrounding glens.
The river’s geology is as interesting as its history. As it cuts through the bedrock, the valley walls rise sharply, creating a secluded atmosphere despite the proximity to the A2 coastal road. Small waterfalls and reflective pools punctuate the lower sections, particularly after periods of steady rainfall. The transition from dense forest to open coastal plain near Ballycastle offers a clear visual shift, marking the river’s final journey to the Irish Sea.
The Loughareema Connection
One of the most fascinating aspects of the Carey River is its hydrological link to Loughareema, often called the “Vanishing Lake”. Situated midway between Cushendun and Ballycastle, the lake is famous for emptying completely within hours. Three streams feed the basin, but its only outlet is a natural drain at the bottom that frequently becomes blocked by peat and debris. When water pressure builds, it forces the blockage open, and the lake drains rapidly.
Geological surveys, including work by the British Geological Survey, have traced this disappearing water underground. It emerges roughly 1.6 miles (2.5 km) away as a spring that directly feeds the Carey River. This hidden connection means the river’s flow can surge quickly after heavy rain or when Loughareema refills. Visitors often notice a stronger current and higher water levels in late winter and early spring, a direct result of this subterranean drainage system. The lake’s name derives from the Gaelic loch an rith amach – literally “the lake that runs out” – a fitting description for a landscape where water moves both visibly and invisibly.
Walking & Exploration
The most rewarding way to experience the Carey River is on foot. A network of forest tracks in Ballypatrick Forest leads to the river’s headwaters, where the water bubbles out of a series of small springs. The trail follows the river’s early meanders, offering occasional clearings that reveal the water’s reflective surface framed by mature oak and pine.
As you progress downstream, the forest thins and the valley narrows into its signature glen. The path can become steep and muddy, so sturdy footwear is essential. Further along, the Carey River merges with the Glenmakeeran River, creating a wider, calmer stretch that serves as a natural resting spot. From here, the landscape opens toward the coastal plain, and the sound of the river gradually blends with the distant rhythm of the sea near Ballycastle. The route connects to the wider Antrim Coast and Glens trail network, making it easy to extend your walk or cycle loop.
Wildlife & Angling
The river’s varied habitats support a steady range of wildlife. In the upper forest reaches, you may spot red squirrels, European badgers, and woodland birds such as the great-spotted woodpecker and willow warbler. The damp micro-climate of the glen attracts dragonflies and damselflies, while the lower reaches near the estuary draw wading birds like oystercatchers and curlews, particularly during autumn migration.
Angling is permitted on certain stretches of the Carey River with a valid DAERA licence. The river holds brown trout and sees occasional salmon runs, making it a quiet spot for fly-fishing enthusiasts. Always check local signage for seasonal restrictions or fly-only regulations, and practice catch-and-release where possible to maintain healthy fish populations. Swimming is not recommended due to shallow depths, cold water temperatures, and fast-flowing sections.
Practical Information
- Access – Main entry is via the Ballypatrick Forest car park on the A2. Parking is free but spaces are limited. Basic toilet facilities are available.
- Opening hours – Open year-round with no formal opening times.
- Difficulty – Trails range from low to moderate. Glen sections are steep and can be slippery when wet.
- Facilities – Toilets at the car park; no food outlets or shops within the forest.
- Mobile reception – Patchy in the glen. Bring a physical map or download offline GPS tracks.
- Dog friendly – Dogs are welcome on most tracks but should be kept on a lead near wildlife and livestock boundaries.
- Seasonal notes – River flow peaks after winter rains due to the underground drainage from Loughareema. Autumn brings colourful foliage, while early mornings often feature mist settling over the valley.
- Nearby – A short drive from the river’s mouth brings you into Ballycastle, where you can explore the Ballycastle Heritage Trail, visit the Ballycastle Museum, or catch a ferry to the Giant’s Causeway.
Plan your visit for mid-week if possible to avoid weekend traffic on the A2, and pack waterproof layers regardless of the forecast. The glen’s microclimate shifts quickly, and a sudden shower can turn a dry path into a muddy scramble within minutes.