Kildare Wicklow Walks
National Network of Looped Walks
Spink Loop: Back in the 6th century, hermit monk Saint Kevin first sought solace and contemplation
in the idyllic surroundings of Glendalough. His followers established a monastery here, which would
become one of the most important monastic sites in Europe.
http://www.discoverireland.ie/Activities-Adventure/spink-loop/14227
Location: Glendalough, Co. Wicklow
Distance: 9km
Grade: Moderate
Type: Looped
Maulin Mountain Loop: The loop is one of a national network of trails developed by Coillte (the
Forestry Board) as part of the Coillte Outdoors Recreation Programme. Local car park available.
http://www.discoverireland.ie/Activities-Adventure/maulin-mountain-loop/75538
Location: Enniskerry, Co Wicklow
Distance: 6km
Grade: Hard
Type: Looped
Kyle Loop: The Trailhead is situated at the top of Mangan‟s Lane. The 2km old lane is narrow and
unsuitable for vehicular traffic but provides wonderful views of the village below. Walking to the
trailhead is recommended (from the Village Square or GAA Car Park)
http://www.discoverireland.ie/Activities-Adventure/kyle-loop/80898
Location: Tinahely, Co. Wicklow
Distance: 16km / 5hrs – 6hrs
Grade: Moderate
Type: Looped
Mangan's Loop: Tinahely is a market village in County Wicklow. It lies south of the Wicklow
Mountains in a valley of the River Derry - close to the borders of Co. Carlow and Co. Wexford. The old
Courthouse occupies the centre of the square. Parking in local GAA car park.
http://www.discoverireland.ie/Activities-Adventure/mangan-s-loop/80896
Location: Tinahely, Co. Wicklow
Distance: 5km / 1hr30mins – 2hrs
Grade: Moderate
Type: Looped
Aylmer Loop: The name Donadea derives from the Irish word „Domnach‟ which signifies a church
and also Sunday. It is believed that all churches bearing this name were founded by St. Patrick, and
the foundations were marked out on a Sunday
http://www.discoverireland.ie/Activities-Adventure/aylmer-loop/75540
Location: Donadea, Co. Kildare
Distance: 6km
Grade: Easy
Type: Looped
Ballycumber Loop: The Trailhead is situated at the top of Mangan‟s Lane. The 2km old lane is
narrow and unsuitable for vehicular traffic but provides wonderful views of the village below. Walking
to the trailhead is recommended (from the Village Square or GAA Carpark)
http://www.discoverireland.ie/Activities-Adventure/ballycumber-loop/80897
Location: Tinahely, Co. Wicklow
Distance: 2km
Grade: Moderate
Type: Looped
Jubilee Looped Walk: is a very suitable family walk and incorporates local Mass paths and the
famine graveyard.
http://www.discoverireland.ie/Activities-Adventure/jubilee-looped-walk/86142
Location: Rathdrum, Co. Wicklow
Distance: 6km / 1hr 30mins - 2hrs
Grade: Easy - to suit all levels of fitness
Type: Looped
Canal River Trails
Grand Canal system and barrow navigation: The Grand Canal is one of Ireland's greatest
engineering achievements. In the 18th century it was essential for industry; today it is just as
important for leisure. It consists of 82 miles (132 km) from Dublin to River Shannon with 44 locks.
Naas Canal 2.5 miles (4 km) with 5 locks. Barrow Line from Lowtown to River Barrow at Athy 28
miles (45 km) with 9 locks. Barrow Navigation from Athy to St. Mullins 41 miles (66 km) with 23
locks. Barrow, Nore and Suir tidal waters 55 miles (88 km)
http://www.waterwaysireland.org/grandcanal/index.cfm/content/tourist
Location: Sallins, Co. Kildare
The royal canal: 90 miles (145 km) from Dublin to River Shannon with 46 locks. Navigation is
theoretically open from Dublin to the Shannon - however, there are obstructions to navigation in
Dublin
http://www.waterwaysireland.org/royalcanal/
Location: Leixlip, Co. Kildare
Coillte Forest Trails
Aylmer Walk: The 5.7km trial winds along the forest roads and paths incorporating lime tree
avenue, it also walks past the 9-11 memorial. It is an Aylmer Slí Na Slaínte walk.
http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?id=54&trail=9&trail_type=1&&no_cache=1
Location: Donadea, Co. Kildare
Length:
5.7 km
Degree of Difficulty:
Easy
Type:
Loop Trail (Returns to Starting Point)
Parking:
Yes
Bluebell Way: This walk leaves the car park and passes through the Lawson Cypress avenue and
then passes up through the middle of the forest through mature beech and ash stands. There is a
beautiful display of bluebells along this path in the springtime.
http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?id=54&trail=283&trail_type=1&&no_cache=1
Location: Moore Abbey, Co. Kildare
Length:
2.5km
Degree of Difficulty:
Easy
Type:
Loop Trail (Returns to Starting Point)
Parking:
Yes
Count John Mc Cormack Way: The Count John McCormack Way follows the outer loop of the forest
passing through an area of mixed conifer/broadleaf woodland. Shortly after leaving the car park the
path leads up through an avenue of Lawson Cypress.
http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?id=54&trail=281&trail_type=1&&no_cache=1
Location: Moore Abbey, Co. Kildare
Length:
3.5km
Degree of Difficulty:
Easy
Type:
Loop Trail (Returns to Starting Point)
Parking:
Yes
Gerard Manly Hopkins Walk: This walk leaves the car park and passes through the Lawson Cypress
Avenue and then loops around through the beech and ash stands. It passes a cairn and old quarry
pits.
http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?id=54&trail=282&trail_type=1&&no_cache=1
Location: Moore Abbey, Co. Kildare
Length:
2km
Degree of Difficulty:
Moderate
Type:
Linear Trail (Point A to B)
Parking:
Yes
Lake Walk:
http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?id=54&trail=7&trail_type=1&&no_cache=1
Location: Donadea forest park, Co. Kildare
Length:
0.8 km
Degree of Difficulty:
Multi-access
Type:
Loop Trail (Returns to Starting Point)
Parking:
Yes
Nature Trail: The 1.6km trail winds through the various natural and man made elements that
make up Donadea. There is a short shrubbery trail only 300m long which winds through
a collection of trees and shrubs.
http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?id=54&trail=8&trail_type=1&&no_cache=1
Location: Donadea forest park, Co. Kildare
Length:
1.6 km
Degree of Difficulty:
Easy
Type:
Loop Trail (Returns to Starting Point)
Parking:
Yes
O'Tuathaill Walk: The O‟Tuathaill Walk can be followed in both directions and follows the Rath walk
for a similar path but then departs to follow a longer route via the wishing well in the North East
section of the forest, where it is said that ladies of old would have thrown coins into the well and
made a wish to find a husband.
http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?id=54&trail=278&trail_type=1&&no_cache=1
Location: Mullaghreelan Wood, Co. Kildare
Length:
2km
Degree of Difficulty:
Moderate
Type:
Linear Trail (Point A to B)
Parking:
Yes
Rath Walk: The Rath Walk winds through the forest, past the beech lined avenue, and the rare stand
of coastal redwood, on up to the hill top rath with fine views of Kilkea Castle and beyond. It then exits
the rath at the same point you entered and follows the trail around the edge of the rath through
spruce, ash and beech forests.
Location: Mullaghreen Wood, Co. Kildare
http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?id=54&trail=277&trail_type=1&&no_cache=1
Length:
2km
Degree of Difficulty:
Moderate
Type:
Linear Trail (Point A to B)
Parking:
Yes
Ballybraid / Ballyboy Viewpoint: Starting at the Shay Elliot car park, the trail follows forest roads
and walking trails in a westerly direction to an open knoll, the Ballybraid Viewpoint. From here the
walker has splendid views over Cullentragh and Mullacor to the North and West and Cloghernagh to
the South which guards the North Eastern approaches to Lugnaquilla one of only a handful of Irish
Monroes (mountains over 3,000 feet).
http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?id=54&trail=148&trail_type=1&&no_cache=1
Location: Shay Elliot Forest Car Park, Co. Wicklow
Length:
1km
Degree of Difficulty:
Moderate
Type:
Linear Trail (Point A to B)
Parking:
Yes
Blue (or Short Loop): This is the shorter of two routes at 4.5km and can be started at either of the
two of the Long Hill Car parks. Follow the blue way markers. The trail follows one of the old driving
roads almost to the Paddock Ponds where it joins a main forest road.
http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?id=54&trail=80&trail_type=1&&no_cache=1
Location: Djouce Woods, Co. Wicklow
Length:
4.5km
Degree of Difficulty:
Easy
Type:
Loop Trail (Returns to Starting Point)
Parking:
Yes
Cairn Walk: The Cairn Walk is an easy walk that is rich in tree species. The trees to be found are
beech, oak, Sitka spruce, pines and Douglas firs. The walk leads onto the Great Ride, a beautiful tree
lined stretch that leads you to the Stone Cairn.
http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?id=54&trail=2&trail_type=1&&no_cache=1
Location: Avondale Forest Park, Co. Wicklow
Length:
2.3 km
Degree of Difficulty:
Easy
Type:
Loop Trail (Returns to Starting Point)
Parking:
Yes
Centenary Trail: The Centenary Trail celebrates 100 years of Irish forestry from 1904 to 2004. It
follows signs that are fixed to posts or trees and information is provided by a signal sign located at
each of the 20 stops along the trail. The route takes you in the footsteps of early forestry students or
pioneers of Irish forestry
http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?id=54&trail=5&trail_type=1&&no_cache=1
Location: Avondale Forest Park
Length:
5 km
Degree of Difficulty:
Easy
Type:
Loop Trail (Returns to Starting Point)
Parking:
Yes
Deerpark: This route follows the blue route to the Paddock Ponds (and back from the Paddock
Ponds). From the ponds the route follows up a switch back road which now has panoramic views
north and east over the Sugarloaf, Bray, Klilliney Hill and Dublin Bay to Howth.
http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?id=54&trail=79&trail_type=1&&no_cache=1
Location: Djouce Woods, Co. Wicklow
Length:
9km
Degree of Difficulty:
Moderate
Type:
Loop Trail (Returns to Starting Point)
Parking:
Yes
Exotic Tree Trail: On the Exotic Tree trail you will meet trees from many corners of the world that
have taken happily to the Irish Environment. These are known as exotic i.e. belonging by nature or
origin to another part of the world. The trail takes you through Eucalyptus trees and to a giant beech
lying on the ground that is over 200 years old.
http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?id=54&trail=3&trail_type=1&&no_cache=1
Location: Avondale Forest Park, Co. Wicklow
Length:
2.3 km
Degree of Difficulty:
Moderate
Type:
Loop Trail (Returns to Starting Point)
Parking:
Yes
Forest Walk: Starting at Trooperstown car park the trail crosses over the Avonmore river and
continues right up towards Trooperstown Hill. After a moderate climb on forest roads through an
attractive Scots Pine forest the trail opens into a felling coup.
Location: Trooperstown, Co. Wicklow
http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?id=54&trail=70&trail_type=1&&no_cache=1
Length:
2.5 km
Degree of Difficulty:
Moderate
Type:
Loop Trail (Returns to Starting Point)
Parking:
Yes
Glenart Walk: The trail starts at the car park and takes you along under a stand of Norway Spruce
planted in 1950. You are walking parallel to the main road. When crossing the road at the Rathdrum
end of the trail one needs to take care.
Location: Glenart Woods, Co. Wicklow
http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?id=54&trail=82&trail_type=1&&no_cache=1
Length:
0.5 km
Degree of
Difficulty:
Moderate
Type:
Loop Trail (Returns to Starting Point)
Parking:
View Trail Grade Definitions
Yes
Green Walk (Ballygannon): The trail starts at the car park and takes you along under a stand of
Norway Spruce planted in 1950. You are walking parallel to the main road. When crossing the road at
the Rathdrum end of the trail one needs to take care.
Location: Ballygannon Wood, Co. Wicklow
http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?id=54&trail=82&trail_type=1&&no_cache=1
Length:
0.5 km
Degree of Difficulty:
Moderate
Type:
Loop Trail (Returns to Starting Point)
Parking:
Yes
Kindlestown Trail: This length of the woodland trail is level and suitable for visitors with limited
mobility. Leave the top end of the car park and proceed along the forest road through a
pedestrian/wheelchair opening on the side of the forest road barrier. This section has the greatest
diversity of tree species including broadleaves like ash, oak, beech and sweet chestnut and conifer
species like Scots pine.
Location: Kindlestown, Co. Wicklow
http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?id=54&trail=52&trail_type=1&&no_cache=1
Length:
1 km
Degree of Difficulty:
Multi-access
Type:
Linear Trail (Point A to B)
Parking:
Yes
Maulin Mountain Trail: This trail provides a high level route across the slopes of Maulin Mountain
and provides the walker with magnificent views into Glencree and over the adjacent mountains and
valleys. In the distance Dublin and Dublin Bay can be clearly seen.
Location: Crone Woods, Co. Wicklow
http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?id=54&trail=27&trail_type=&&no_cache=1
Length:
6 km
Degree of Difficulty:
Strenuous
Type:
Loop Trail (Returns to Starting Point)
Parking:
Yes
Miner's Path: Halfway down the Glenmalure valley, the Miner‟s Path is an excellent starting point for
challenging hikes towards Glendalough or after the initial climb, a relaxing walk back to the
Glenmalure Inn.
Location: Ballinafunshoge, Co. Wicklow
http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?id=54&trail=11&trail_type=&&no_cache=1
Length:
1.6 km
Degree of Difficulty:
Strenuous
Type:
Linear Trail (Point A to B)
Parking:
Yes
Mountain Access Route: The Mountain Access Route gives access to the remote area of
Carrawaystick Mountain and Kelly‟s Lough. Form the car park, follow the road to the junction with the
Wicklow Way and veer south along the way for approximately 300m.
Location: Drumgoff Forest Car Park, Co. Wicklow
http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?id=54&trail=151&trail_type=&&no_cache=1
Length:
2km
Degree of Difficulty:
Moderate
Type:
Linear Trail (Point A to B)
Parking:
Yes
Mountain Access Route Ballinafunshogue: This is an access route (waymarked white) through
the forest to the open mountain. When venturing into the hills, visitors are advised to be equipped
with waterproof clothing, strong shoes, a drink and a map and compass
Location: Ballinafunshogue, Co Wicklow
http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?id=54&trail=182&trail_type=&&no_cache=1
Length:
2.6km
Degree of Difficulty:
Strenuous
Type:
Linear Trail (Point A to B)
Parking:
Yes
Mountain Access Route Crone: This is an access route (waymarked white) through the forest to
the open mountain. When venturing into the hills, visitors are advised to be equipped with
waterproof clothing, strong shoes, a drink and a map and compass
Location: Crone Woods, Co. Wicklow
http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?id=54&trail=183&trail_type=&&no_cache=1
Length:
2.6km
Degree of Difficulty:
Strenuous
Type:
Linear Trail (Point A to B)
Parking:
Yes
Mountain Access Route Shay Elliot: This is an access route (waymarked white) through the forest
to the open mountain. When venturing into the hills, visitors are advised to be equipped with
waterproof clothing, strong shoes, a drink and a map and compass
Location: Shay Elliot Forest Car Park, Co. Wicklow
http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?id=54&trail=181&trail_type=&&no_cache=1
Length:
850m
Degree of Difficulty:
Easy
Type:
Linear Trail (Point A to B)
Parking:
Yes
Pine Tree Trail: The Pine Trail is not, as is name implies confined to pine trees. A variety of trees
are to be found including Spanish chestnut, redwoods, cedar and larch - the only conifer species that
sheds its needles in the Autumn.
Location: Avondale Forest Park, Co. Wicklow
http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?id=54&trail=4&trail_type=&&no_cache=1
Length:
1.75 km
Degree of Difficulty:
Easy
Type:
Loop Trail (Returns to Starting Point)
Parking:
Yes
Red Walk (Ballygannon): This trail begins in the car park and takes the forest road down the hill
through some Scots Pine and Norway Spruce. Follow the path to bring you up through the spruce
plantation towards the county road.
Location: Ballygannon Woods, Co. Wicklow
http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?id=54&trail=83&trail_type=&&no_cache=1
Length:
1.5 km
Degree of Difficulty:
Moderate
Type:
Linear Trail (Point A to B)
Parking:
Yes
River Walk: The River Walk is the longest and hardest walk at Avondale with some steep descents
and climbs, therefore strong footwear is recommended. Leaving the car park you walk through a
variety of tree species including maple, beech, oak, Douglas and Silver fir, pines, cedars and larches.
Location: Avondale Forest Park, Co. Wicklow
http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?id=54&trail=1&trail_type=&&no_cache=1
Length:
5.2 km
Degree of Difficulty:
Moderate
Type:
Loop Trail (Returns to Starting Point)
Parking:
Yes
Seamus Heaney Walk: The Seamus Heaney Walk is so named in honor of the poet and Nobel Prize
winner for Literature, Seamus Heaney. It was formerly known as “The Upland Walk”. It starts and
finishes at the information boards at the main entrance to the site. It is approximately 4 km of rough
walking with steep sections and you should allow at least 1.5 hours completing it.
Location: The Devils Glen, Co. Wicklow
http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?id=54&trail=31&trail_type=&&no_cache=1
Length:
4 km
Degree of Difficulty:
Moderate
Type:
Loop Trail (Returns to Starting Point)
Parking:
Yes
Slí na Slainte: Slí na Slainte stands for „path to health‟. Developed by the Irish Heart Foundation,
it‟s the new outgoing way to make walking for leisure and good health even more enjoyable. The
terrain is grass and forest track so comfortable, waterproof footwear is recommended.
Location: Avondale Forest Park, Co. Wicklow
http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?id=54&trail=6&trail_type=&&no_cache=1
Length:
2.8 kms
Degree of Difficulty:
Easy
Type:
Loop Trail (Returns to Starting Point)
Parking:
Yes
Waterfall Walk: The Waterfall walk starts from the Main car park and provides views over the
dramatic Vartry River which has eked out the gorge since the retreat of the ice sheet at the end of the
last Ice Age. The trail provides a moderate walk but there are steep sections.
Location: The Devils Glen, Co. Wicklow
http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?id=54&trail=30&trail_type=&&no_cache=1
Length:
5 km
Degree of
Difficulty:
Moderate
Type:
Loop Trail (Returns to Starting Point)
View Trail Grade Definitions
Parking:
Yes
Wicklow Way (B'funshoge): The Wicklow Way is Ireland's oldest way marked trail. The trail
extends from Marlay Park in Dublin to Clonegal on the borders of Wicklow and Carlow covering a
distance of 127 kilometres (79 miles).
Location: Ballinafunshoge, Co. Wicklow
http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?id=54&trail=10&trail_type=&&no_cache=1
Length:
5 km
Degree of Difficulty:
Moderate
Type:
Linear Trail (Point A to B)
Parking:
Yes
Wicklow Way (Cloon): This description is based on that section of the Wicklow Way accessed from
the entrance to Curtlestown wood and heading in a northerly direction. From the forest entrance, the
trail ascends with a fairly gentle slope on a well-surfaced path through a maturing plantation of Sitka
spruce.
Location: Cloon/Curtlestown, Co. Wicklow
http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?id=54&trail=22&trail_type=&&no_cache=1
Length:
5 km
Degree of Difficulty:
Moderate
Type:
Linear Trail (Point A to B)
Parking:
Yes
Wicklow Way (Crone): This section of the Wicklow Way leaves the car park at Crone and follows a
forest road (in a roughly south eastern direction) through conifer and broadleaf forests of mixed age.
Location: Crone Woods, Co. Wicklow
http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?id=54&trail=26&trail_type=&&no_cache=1
Length:
3 km
Degree of Difficulty:
Moderate
Type:
Linear Trail (Point A to B)
Parking:
Yes
Wicklow Way (Drumgoff Section): The Wicklow Way passes through some of the most heavily
wooded sections as it traverses Coillte forest on this section. The most interesting section is the trail
running north from here. This can be accessed by following the forest road for about 300m where we
meet the trail as it emerges along a forest ride line.
Location: Drumgoff Forest Car Park
http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?id=54&trail=150&trail_type=&&no_cache=1
Length:
6km
Degree of Difficulty:
Moderate
Type:
Linear Trail (Point A to B)
Parking:
Yes
Wicklow Way (Lackan Wood): Heading south from Curtlestown Wood, the Wicklow Way follows
the approach road to Lackan Wood. Having entered the wood, the Way follows the forest road on a
fairly level surface. After some fifteen minutes, you reach a viewing point with attractive views to the
south of Glencree Valley and Maulin Mountain.
Location: Lackan Wood, Co.Wicklow
http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?id=54&trail=53&trail_type=&&no_cache=1
Length:
3.5 km
Degree of Difficulty:
Moderate
Type:
Linear Trail (Point A to B)
Parking:
Yes
Pilgrim Paths
St Kevin’s Way - St Kevin‟s Way follows in the footsteps of St Kevin through the hills of Wicklow to
the haunting and mysterious valley of Glendalough where he spent the rest of his life in solitary
prayer and contemplation.
http://www.heritagecouncil.ie/recreation/heritage-council-initiatives/the-pilgrim-paths/st-kevins-way/
Location: Hollywood, Co. Wicklow
Distance: 30 kilometres (18 miles)
Degree of Difficulty: Strenuous
Parking: Yes
Type: Looped
National Park Walking Trails
Miners' Road Walk (Purple Route) - This walk skirts one side of the Upper Lake. The trail passes
through Scots Pine woodland before reaching the ruined miners' village. Halfway along the trail, the
cave known as St. Kevin's Bed can be seen across the lake. Feral goats are common on this walk.
Peregrine Falcons may on occasion be seen high in the sky soaring and calling to each other (a highpitched cry).
http://www.wicklowmountainsnationalpark.ie/WalkingTrails.html
Location: Glendalough, Co. Wicklow
Grade: Easy
Distance: 5km
Parking: Yes
Type: Looped
Poulanass and St. Kevin's Cell (Bronze Route) - This trail rises steeply alongside the Poulanass
Waterfall, leading you through the Glendalough oak woodlands. It then winds gently down to the site
of St. Kevin's Cell. At this point there is a scenic viewpoint overlooking the Upper Lake, which is a
good place to birdwatch. A visit to Reefert Church is worthwhile before ending your walk.
http://www.wicklowmountainsnationalpark.ie/WalkingTrails.html
Location: Glendalough, Co. Wicklow
Grade: Moderate
Distance: 2km
Parking: Yes
Type: Looped
Green Road Walk (Green Route) - The Green Road is an easy stroll on mostly flat ground. This
walk passes through the Glendalough oak woodlands before dropping down onto the Lower Lake
wetland edge. Views up the valley from the boardwalk here are spectacular. Lizards and dragonflies
are often seen sunning themselves on the wooden trackway. The wetlands are a valuable breeding
place for frogs.
http://www.wicklowmountainsnationalpark.ie/WalkingTrails.html
Location: Glendalough, Co. Wicklow
Grade: Easy
Distance: 3km
Parking: Yes
Type: Looped
Derrybawn Woodland Trail (Orange Route) - This trail climbs steeply up alongside the Poulanass
Waterfall before leading you to the upper reaches of Derrybawn Mountain. Flanked by larch and pine
trees, the route offers magnificent views of the whole Glendalough Valley. Red Squirrels and birds
such as Treecreepers are often seen here. In early summer, wood sorrel, bluebells and wood
anemones add colour to the woodland floor.
http://www.wicklowmountainsnationalpark.ie/WalkingTrails.html
Location: Glendalough, Co. Wicklow
Grade: Ramble
Distance: 8km
Parking: Yes
Type: Looped
Poulanass (Pink Route) - This trail begins with a short but steep climb up by the Poulanass
Waterfall and plunge pools. (The name Poulanass is taken from the Irish 'Poll an Eas' which means
'hole of the waterfall'). The trail crosses above the waterfall to drop down through mixed woodlands
to the valley floor. Listen out for woodland birds, in particular Jays, which can be quite noisy.
http://www.wicklowmountainsnationalpark.ie/WalkingTrails.html
Location: Glendalough, Co. Wicklow
Grade: Moderate
Distance: 1.7 km
Parking: Yes
Type: Looped
Woodland Road (Silver Route) - This is a pleasant walk through one of the more secretive areas of
Glendalough. It weaves through mixed woodlands into neighbouring Glendasan Valley. The trail
follows the Glendasan River back towards Glendalough, where it then joins up with the boardwalk
which runs through the Lower Lake wetlands.
http://www.wicklowmountainsnationalpark.ie/WalkingTrails.html
Grade: Ramble
Distance: 4km
Location: Glendalough, Co. Wicklow
Parking: Yes
Type: Looped
Spinc and Glenealo Valley (White Route) - This popular walk leads you through some of the most
spectacular scenery in Co. Wicklow. (The name Spinc comes from the Irish 'An Spinc' and means
'pointed hill'). The trail ascends steeply up by the Poulanass Waterfall before joining a boardwalk.
More than 600 wooden steps lead you to a viewing point overlooking the Upper Lake. The boardwalk
skirts the top of the cliffs before descending through blanket bog and heath into the picturesque
Glenealo Valley, home to a large herd of deer. A rough track then leads you back down into
Glendalough Valley.
http://www.wicklowmountainsnationalpark.ie/WalkingTrails.html
Location: Glendalough, Co. Wicklow
Grade: Hillwalk
Distance: 9km
Parking: Yes
Type: Looped
Spinc and the Wicklow Way (Red Route) - This walk follows the same route as the other Spinc
trails up onto the boardwalk. It stays on this boardwalk for 1.7km before turning off in the direction of
Lugduff Mountain. This Section of the trail is a good place to spot deer and birds such as Raven,
Merlin and Kestrel. Finally the trail links up with the Wicklow Way track to lead you back to the
Information Office.
http://www.wicklowmountainsnationalpark.ie/WalkingTrails.html
Location: Glendalough, Co. Wicklow
Grade: Hillwalk
Distance: 11km
Parking: Yes
Type: Looped
Spinc (short route) (Blue Route) - Although this walk is short in comparison to the other Spinc
routes, it still leads you into mountainous terrain where navigational experience is necessary. The
walk follows the Poulanass Waterfall before entering the Lugduff Valley. From there, a steep climb up
steps brings you onto the boardwalk which hugs the cliff of the Spinc, before cutting down through
forest to lead back towards the Information Office.
http://www.wicklowmountainsnationalpark.ie/WalkingTrails.html
Location: Glendalough, Co. Wicklow
Grade: Hillwalk
Distance: 5km
Parking: Yes
Type: Looped
Slí na Slainte Routes
Enniskerry Walking Club - Walks are organised on Tuesdays at 7pm and Saturdays at 1.30pm
usually meeting at the Clocktower. Walks vary in length but most last between 1.5 and 2.5 hours some (but not all) involve a bit of climbing. Please wear appropriate warm and rain proof clothing and
proper walking boots. Adults and Children are most welcome
https://www.irishheart.ie/iopen24/walking-groups-t-214.html
Location: Enniskerry, Co. Wicklow
Grade: Moderate
Distance: 19km
Parking: Yes
Type: Looped
Athy Slí - Your 2.6Km Slí starts at the courthouse by the River Barrow. This historic Jacobean style
building was opened as the town‟s Corn Exchange building in 1857 and was converted to the
courthouse in 1891. Route can be walked in either direction and is recommended as a daytime walk.
http://www.irishtrails.ie/Trail/Athy-Sli/1129/
Location: Athy, Co. Kildare
Grade: Easy
Distance: 2.6km
Parking: Yes
Type: Looped
Celbridge - Hewlett Packard - Leixlip Slí - In Celbridge, the starting point is at the gates to
Castletown House, where you will find a map, which clearly illustrates the route. From this point you
proceed along Main Street, Celbridge, until you reach the junction with the Dublin Road.
http://www.irishtrails.ie/Trail/Celbridge---Hewlett-Packard---Leixlip-Sli/1097/
Location: Cellbridge, Co. Kildare
Grade: Easy
Distance: 7km
Parking: Yes
Type: Looped
Clane Slí - The Clane Slí na Sláinte is a 4.1km route, starting at the junction of Balnagappa and the
Dublin Road.
http://www.irishtrails.ie/Trail/Clane-Sli/1101/
Location: Clane, Co. Kildare
Grade: Easy
Distance: 4.1km
Parking: Yes
Type: Looped
Donadea Forest Park Slí - The Donadea Forest Park Slí na Sláinte is 5.7km long and starts near the
car park entrance and follows a beautiful forest path around the park. Donadea Forest Park is almost
250 hectares in size and is steeped in history, with remnants of a magnificent castle, a church, a
tower and walled gardens.
http://www.irishtrails.ie/Trail/Donadea-Forest-Park-Sli/1100/
Location: Donadea Forest Park, Co. Kildare
Grade: Easy
Distance: 5.7
Parking: Yes
Type: Looped
Kilcock Slí - The Kilcock Slí is 5.5km in length and starts at the Fairgreen, near the entrance to the
Railway Station car park. Before starting the walk, take time to notice Market Cross, base dated 1640
and the remains of the Military Barracks.
http://www.irishtrails.ie/Trail/Kilcock-Sli/1099/
Location: Kilcock, Co. Kildare
Grade: Easy
Distance: 5.5km
Parking: Yes
Type: Looped
Leixlip West Slí - This Slí is a 4.9km route through a predominantly residential area, which takes in
both old and new Leixlip. The route starts at the main gates of Intel Ireland, one of the biggest
employers in Co. Kildare.
http://www.irishtrails.ie/Trail/Leixlip-West-Sli/1130/
Location: Leixlip, Co. Kildare
Grade: Easy
Distance 4.9km
Parking: Yes
Type: Looped
Avondale Slí - The Avondale Slí walk begins at Avondale House where you will see the map board
and first Km post. The route is 2.8km in length and the beginning is a 270m walk from the carpark.
The terrain is grass and forest track so comfortable, waterproof footwear is recommended. Avondale,
steeped in history witnessed the triumph and tragedy of one of the greatest political leaders of our
nation: Charles Stewart Parnell. It is also the cradle of modern Irish Forestry, and much that has been
learned in silviculture from the Avondale plantations has been applied in practice throughout the
country. The forest Park covers 214 hectares and lies mainly on the west bank of the Avonmore River.
http://www.irishtrails.ie/Trail/Avondale-Sli/1086/
Location: Avondale, Co. Wicklow
Grade: Easy
Distance: 2.8km
Parking: Yes
Type: Looped
Ballinastoe Slí - Located just over 5km from Roundwood village, the Ballinastoe Slí na Sláinte is a
5km looped route. From the carpark and picnic area, the route continues uphill along forestry tracks.
The forest consists mainly of mixed conifers on the slopes of Djouce Mountain and provides a habitat
for fox, badger, red squirrel and sika deer. Many species of birds, including grouse can also be seen.
The clear-felled areas have opened up stunning views of the Sugarloaf Mountain to the north and the
Vartry valley and reservoir to the south.
http://www.irishtrails.ie/Trail/Ballinastoe-Sli/1088/
Location: Ballinastoe, Co. Wicklow
Grade: Easy
Distance: 5km
Parking: Yes
Type: Looped
Bray Coast Slí - The Bray Coast Slí follows the Old Dublin Road, Castle Street and Quinsboro Road
until it joins the coast. The route then follows the promenade along to the Old Bray Head Hotel and
onto the cliff walk for a further 3km. On returning to the Old Dublin Road you will have completed a
14km walk.
http://www.irishtrails.ie/Trail/Bray-Coast-Sli/1084/
Location: Bray, Co. Wicklow
Grade: Easy
Distance: 14km
Parking: Yes
Type: Linear
Bray Town Slí - The Bray Town Slí forms a circuit, which follows Quinsboro Road, Herbert Road,
Kilbride Lane, Boghall Road, Vevay Road and Putland Road. Upon reaching Bray promenade turn left.
Continue to the end of the promenade, walking under the railway bridge to return back to Quinsboro
Road.
http://www.irishtrails.ie/Trail/Bray-Town-Sli/1085/
Location: Bray, Co. Wicklow
Grade: Easy
Distance: 7.9km
Parking: Yes
Type: Looped
Carnew Slí - Carnew consists of two Slí routes; Bells Lane Slí na Sláinte (3.8km) and The Brook Slí
na Sláinte (3.7km). Both are Loop routes which can be walked in either direction. For more
information follow link to the routes.
http://www.irishtrails.ie/Trail/Carnew-Sli/1087/
Location: Carnew, Co. Wicklow
Grade: Easy
Distance: 3.8km
Parking: Yes
Type: Looped
Emoclew Slí - The Emoclew Slí na Sláinte is 3km in length and starts at the roundabout at the top of
Upper Main Street. The route continues along the Wexford Road for just under 1km and turns right
onto the EmoclewRoad. Passing the Arklow Town Soccer Field and the Cemetery, the route turns right
at the t-junction onto Coolgreany Road. Follow the route back to the starting point at the roundabout
to complete the 3km walk.
http://www.irishtrails.ie/Trail/Emoclew-Sli/1091/
Location: Emoclew Road, Co. Wicklow
Grade: Easy
Distance: 3km
Parking: Yes
Type: Looped
Lower Vartry Reservoir Slí - The Lower Vartry Reservoir Slí na Sláinte can be started from the
Lower Dam, if coming by car, or by walking from the village to Waters Bridge. It follows the edge of
Varty reservoir for 7.2km along lakeside paths and country roads flanked by trees with fantastic views
across the water in all directions, this is a comfortable walk along the water‟s edge. The reservoir was
developed in the 1860s to provide clean water for the people of Dublin.
http://www.irishtrails.ie/Trail/Lower-Vartry-Reservoir-Sli/1089/
Location: Roundwood, Co. Wicklow
Grade: Easy
Distance: 7.2km
Parking: Yes
Type: Looped
Neighbourhood Scheme Trails
Roundwood - Roundwood Forest is located in the North East of Wicklow. The forest stretches
northwards from Greystones to the Sallygap. The total area of the forest is 1611 hectares (3980
acres). The principle towns and villages associated with the forest are Roundwood, Kilmacanogue,
Newtownmountkennedy and Greystones.
http://www.coillte.ie/coillteforest/plans/forest_management_plans/progress_on_revising_our_forest_
management_plans/wicklow/?tx_r3co086forestsdb_pi1%5BshowUid%5D=WW03&cHash=9bf3722d8e
Monasterevin - Monasterevan forest covers 352 hectares of forest land and includes the following
properties: Mullaghreelan, Dollardstown, Battlemount, Narraghmore, Inch, Swordlestown and
Dunnstown. The forest is situated in East Kildare, on the Wicklow border between the towns of
Newbridge, BallymoreEustace, Kilcullen, Ballitore, Athy and Castledermot.
National Waymarked Ways
Wicklow Way - The Wicklow Way was Ireland‟s first waymarked trail, and due to its proximity to
Dublin has remained one of the most popular walking routes in Ireland. The Way commences in the
southern suburbs of the capital and civilisation is soon left behind as the route moves deep into high,
heathery moorland.
http://www.irishtrails.ie/trail/name/Wicklow-Way/40/
Location: Marley Park, Co. Wicklow
Grade: Strenuous
Distance: 129km
Parking: Yes
Type: Linear
Royal Canal Way - Work began on the construction of the 146 km long Royal Canal, to connect
Ireland‟s capital city, Dublin, with the upper River Shannon in 1790, and the canal was completed in
1817. It operated in competition with the Grand Canal which ran an almost parallel route never more
than 30 km to the south, and with the Grand, was made redundant by the advent of the railways in
the mid-19th century.
http://www.irishtrails.ie/trail/name/Royal-Canal-Way/28/
Location: Leixlip, Co. Kildare
Grade: Easy
Distance: 79km
Parking: Yes
Type: Linear
Historic Walking Trails
Athy Historic Town Walk - Athy may be named for a Munster chieftain killed in the 2nd Century,
but the Kildare town is today a peaceful heritage haven. Straddling the River Barrow and Grand
Canal, this lively market town was originally fortified by Anglo-Normans, and wears its history with
class.
http://www.discoverireland.ie/Activities-Adventure/athy-historic-town-walk/85386
Location: Athy, Co. Kildare
Grade: Easy
Distance: 3km
Parking: Yes
Naas Historic Town Walk - Naas (or Nás na Riogh in Irish) means „Assembly Place of the Kings‟.
For centuries, it was the seat of the Kings of Leinster, who governed from the North Motte (or
manmade hill) in the town.
http://www.discoverireland.ie/Activities-Adventure/naas-historic-town-walk/85660
Location: Naas, Co. Kildare