Wicklow Mountains National Park
Glendalough Walks:
The Complete Guide to All 9 Trails
From a gentle lakeside stroll to a ridge-top boardwalk above the clouds, here’s everything you need to plan your perfect day out in the Valley of Two Lakes.
Few places in Ireland stop you in your tracks quite like Glendalough. Stand at the water’s edge of the Upper Lake on a still morning, the Round Tower framed against the granite ridgeline, mist rising off the water, a heron motionless on a rock, and you’ll understand why people have been making pilgrimages to this valley for over 1,400 years.
Here at the Wicklow Heather, we’ve been welcoming walkers at the end of their Glendalough adventures for over 50 years. We’re just minutes down the road in Laragh, and we like to think we know a thing or two about what’s out there on those hills. This guide covers all 9 official Glendalough walks, every grade, every distance, every wildlife highlight, so you can head out with confidence and come back ravenous.
Good to Know Before You Go
All 9 walks start from the National Park Information Office near the Upper Lake. Staff there can advise on current trail conditions and help you pick the right route. Upper Lake car park charges approximately €4 per car. Arrive early on weekends, Glendalough is one of Ireland’s most visited sites and the car parks fill up fast, particularly from May to September.
All 9 Glendalough Walks at a Glance
Not sure which walk is right for your group? This table gives you the quick overview. We’ve organised by grade, easiest first, so you can find your level straight away.
| Walk | Grade | Distance | Time | Climb |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Green Road Walk | Easy | 3km | 50 mins | 20m |
| Miners’ Road Walk | Easy | 5km | 1hr 10mins | 20m |
| Poulanass & St Kevin’s Cell | Moderate | 1km | 30 mins | 85m |
| Poulanass | Moderate | 1.6km | 40 mins | 100m |
| Woodland Road | Ramble | 4km | 1hr 15mins | 90m |
| Derrybawn Woodland Trail | Ramble | 8km | 2hrs | 160m |
| Spinc (Short Route) | Hillwalk | 5.5km | 2hrs 15mins | 300m |
| Spinc & Glenealo Valley | Hillwalk | 9.5km | 3hrs 15mins | 380m |
| Spinc & the Wicklow Way | Hillwalk | 11.5km | 4hrs 15mins | 490m |
Easy Walks in Glendalough
Easy walks in Glendalough are graded for flat or very gently undulating ground. They’re ideal for families with younger children, visitors who prefer a relaxed pace, or anyone who simply wants to soak up the landscape without working up too much of a sweat before lunch.
1. Green Road Walk
Easy
50 mins
20m climb
This is Glendalough’s most accessible walk and a genuine pleasure. The Green Road lives up to its name, it’s an easy, mostly flat route threading through ancient oak woodland before dropping down to the edge of the Lower Lake via a wooden boardwalk. From that boardwalk, the views up the valley toward the Upper Lake and the mountains are genuinely spectacular; you get the whole dramatic sweep of the valley without having earned a single blister.
Keep an eye on the wooden planking underfoot, on sunny days, common lizards love to warm themselves on the boards, and the wetlands on either side are an important breeding ground for frogs. Dragonflies skim the water in summer. It’s one of those walks that rewards the slow walker who stops to look.
2. Miners’ Road Walk
Easy
1hr 10mins
20m climb
The Miners’ Road is easy in grade but rich in story. It runs along one side of the Upper Lake through beautiful Scots Pine woodland, those tall, rust-barked pines are among the most atmospheric trees in Wicklow, before arriving at the remains of the miners’ village, a ghost settlement that once housed the workers from the Glendalough lead and zinc mines, which operated from the 1820s until the mid-20th century.
About halfway along, look out across the lake for St Kevin’s Bed, a cave-like hollow cut into the cliff face, reputed to be where the saint slept and prayed in the 6th century. You can see it clearly from the path on a good day. Feral goats are a regular sighting on this route, as are Peregrine Falcons, if you hear a rapid, high-pitched cry from above, look up. You might be lucky.
Moderate Walks in Glendalough
The moderate walks involve short but steep climbs, expect steps on some sections. They’re manageable for most reasonably fit walkers and reward you with some of the best waterfall scenery in the national park.
3. Poulanass and St Kevin’s Cell
Moderate
30 mins
85m climb
This is a short but steep trail that punches well above its weight for scenery. It rises alongside the Poulanass Waterfall, its Irish name, Poll an Eas, means “hole of the waterfall,” and the plunge pools at its base are dramatic whatever the season, climbing through the heart of the Glendalough oak woodland. The descent leads you gently down to the site of St Kevin’s Cell, a place of real historical atmosphere, with a viewing point overlooking the Upper Lake that makes an excellent spot for birdwatching.
Reefert Church is worth visiting on your way back, it’s one of the most intimate of the Glendalough monastic remains, set among ancient yew trees. An old, quiet place.
4. Poulanass Walk
Moderate
40 mins
100m climb
The Poulanass walk is a short loop that takes you up alongside the waterfall and plunge pools before crossing above the falls and dropping back down through mixed woodland to the valley floor. It’s a lovely circuit, dramatic at the top, peaceful at the bottom. Listen carefully in the trees for Jays, the most vivid bird in the Wicklow woodlands, with their flash of electric blue on the wing and their surprisingly raucous calls. They’re not shy about making themselves heard.
Ramble Walks in Glendalough
Rambles are longer walks with prolonged inclines, a step up from easy, but not requiring any specialist hill experience. They’re ideal for walkers looking for a proper half-day out with real elevation rewards.
5. Woodland Road
Ramble
1hr 15mins
90m climb
The Woodland Road is perhaps Glendalough’s best-kept secret, a walk through one of the valley’s quieter, more sheltered corners. It weaves through mixed woodland into the neighbouring Glendasan Valley, where it meets St Kevin’s Way (the ancient pilgrim route from Hollywood to Glendalough) and the path up to the old Glendasan Mines. The return follows the Glendasan River, before rejoining the boardwalk through the Lower Lake wetlands. If you’d like a walk with a bit of variety, woodland, river, wetlands, a touch of industrial history, this is your route.
6. Derrybawn Woodland Trail
Ramble
2hrs
160m climb
The Derrybawn trail climbs steeply up alongside the Poulanass Waterfall before winding through larch and pine forests to the upper reaches of Derrybawn Mountain. The reward for the climb is a magnificent, panoramic view over the full length of the Glendalough Valley, it’s one of those views that makes you quietly proud of the effort. On the descent, keep an eye out for Red Squirrels, Wicklow has a healthy population, and the creeping, bark-scanning Treecreeper, a tiny bird that spirals up tree trunks and disappears into the shadows.
In late April and May, the woodland floor here is carpeted with wood sorrel, bluebells, and wood anemones. It’s one of the prettiest stretches of walking in the whole valley at that time of year.
Hillwalks in Glendalough: The Spinc Routes
The three Spinc hillwalks are in a different category to anything else in Glendalough. They ascend into true mountain terrain, steep, exposed, boggy in places, and all three routes pass close to the cliffs of the Spinc ridge. These are magnificent, serious walks that deserve your full respect and preparation.
⚠ Hillwalk Safety, Please Read
All three Spinc routes require navigational experience. Before setting out: wear strong waterproof boots, bring a map and compass and know how to use them, check the weather forecast and dusk times, and leave details of your route with someone. Keep back from the cliff edges, they are exposed and dangerous. If you need Mountain Rescue, dial 999 or 112.
7. Spinc (Short Route)
Hillwalk
2hrs 15mins
300m climb
Don’t let “short” fool you, this walk still takes you deep into the mountains. It follows the Poulanass Waterfall before entering the Lugduff Valley, then a steep climb up steps brings you out onto the famous boardwalk along the clifftop of the Spinc. You’ll walk 1.2 kilometres along this elevated boardwalk, the views down to the Upper Lake and across the valley are extraordinary, before the trail cuts down through forest back to the Information Office. A genuine mountain experience within a compact distance.
8. Spinc and Glenealo Valley
Hillwalk
3hrs 15mins
380m climb
This is arguably the finest walk in County Wicklow, and there is serious competition for that title. The name Spinc comes from the Irish An Spinc, meaning “pointed hill,” and from the top you’ll understand why they named it that way. The trail ascends steeply by the Poulanass Waterfall before reaching the boardwalk that carries you along the top of the cliffs. Over 600 wooden steps lead you to a viewpoint directly above the Upper Lake, it’s one of those moments that earns a full minute of silence.
From there, the boardwalk skirts the clifftops before descending through blanket bog and open heath into the Glenealo Valley, a remote, sheltered corrie that’s home to one of Wicklow’s largest herds of red deer. Come down quietly and you stand a real chance of watching them at close range. A rough track then leads you back along the valley floor to Glendalough. Allow plenty of time, this walk deserves it.
9. Spinc and the Wicklow Way
Hillwalk
4hrs 15mins
490m climb
The longest and most demanding of the Glendalough walks takes you beyond the Spinc boardwalk and out toward Lugduff Mountain, along a section of the Wicklow Way, Ireland’s oldest long-distance walking trail. This stretch of the Wicklow Way is superb for wildlife: Raven, Merlin, and Kestrel are all regularly spotted quartering the open moorland. The trail eventually picks up the Wicklow Way track to bring you back to the Information Office. A proper mountain day out, pack accordingly.
What Wildlife to Look Out For
Glendalough is one of the best places in Leinster for wildlife watching. Knowing what you might see, and where, adds a whole extra dimension to any of the walks above.
Red Deer are the star attraction. The Glenealo Valley holds a large herd and the Spinc and Glenealo Valley walk offers the best chance of a close encounter. Come quietly and stay low. Feral goats roam the rocky shore of the Upper Lake along the Miners’ Road. Peregrine Falcons nest on the cliff faces and are often visible soaring above the valley in spring and summer, listen for a rapid, piercing shriek. On the Spinc and Wicklow Way route, Ravens tumble on the updrafts above the bog, and Merlin, Ireland’s smallest falcon, dash low over the heather.
Down in the woodlands, Red Squirrels and Treecreepers inhabit the Derrybawn trail, and Jays can be surprisingly bold near the Poulanass waterfall area. Along the Lower Lake boardwalk, common lizards bask on the warm timber and dragonflies patrol the wetland edges on still summer days.
Practical Information for Your Visit
Getting There
Glendalough is located 36km from Dublin City as the crow flies, approximately 49km by road. Take the N11/M11 southbound from Dublin, exit at Kilmacanogue, and follow signs through Roundwood or via the R755 through Rathnew. The R756 road into the valley is scenic but narrow, take your time. Mobile coverage is limited in the valley, so download maps and directions before you leave.
Parking
There are two main car parks, one near the Visitor Centre at the Lower Lake (free) and one at the Upper Lake where all walks begin (approximately €4 per car, operated by Wicklow Mountains National Park). On summer weekends and bank holidays, both car parks can fill by 10am. If you’re planning a Spinc walk, aim to set off by 9am at the latest.
What to Wear and Bring
For the Easy and Moderate walks, comfortable walking shoes and a light waterproof are sufficient for most conditions. For the Ramble and Hillwalk grades, particularly all Spinc routes, you need waterproof hiking boots, full raingear, layers, a packed lunch, and enough water. The weather in the Wicklow Mountains changes fast. Four seasons in a single afternoon is not unusual.
When to Visit
Glendalough is open year-round and rewarding in every season. Spring (April–May) brings wildflowers to the woodland floor, bluebells, wood anemone, wood sorrel, and the valley is at its most vibrant. Autumn brings rich russet colour and the start of the red deer rut in the Glenealo Valley. Winter walks on the lower routes can be magical on a clear, frosty day. Summer is the busiest period, fantastic weather but very crowded; an early start is essential.
Local Tip from the Wicklow Heather Team
If you want to see deer on the Spinc and Glenealo Valley walk, aim for a weekday morning in September or October during the rut. The stags are vocal and active, and midweek there are far fewer walkers on the trail. Combine it with an early breakfast at the Wicklow Heather beforehand and you’ll have the valley almost to yourself.
Hungry After Your Walk?
We’re just minutes down the road in Laragh village, the perfect place to refuel with a hearty meal, a proper Irish coffee, or just a warm seat by the fire. We’ve been welcoming walkers for over 50 years.
Glendalough Walks, Frequently Asked Questions
How many walking trails are there in Glendalough?
There are 9 official walking trails in Glendalough, all starting from the National Park Information Office near the Upper Lake. They range from the easy 3km Green Road Walk to the challenging 11.5km Spinc and the Wicklow Way hillwalk. Staff at the Information Office can help you choose the most suitable route for your ability and fitness level.
What is the easiest walk in Glendalough?
The Green Road Walk (3km, 50 minutes, just 20m of ascent) is the easiest walk in Glendalough, flat ground, woodland paths, and a boardwalk beside the Lower Lake. The Miners’ Road Walk (5km, 1hr 10mins, 20m climb) is also graded Easy and suitable for families and casual walkers.
What is the most popular and spectacular walk in Glendalough?
The Spinc and Glenealo Valley walk (9.5km, 3hrs 15mins, 380m climb) is widely considered the most spectacular walk in the area. It features over 600 wooden steps, a boardwalk along the clifftops above the Upper Lake, open blanket bog, and the beautiful Glenealo Valley, home to one of Wicklow’s largest herds of red deer.
Are the Glendalough walks suitable for children?
Yes, the Green Road Walk and the Miners’ Road Walk are both Easy-graded and very manageable for children. The two Poulanass walks are short moderate options (1km and 1.6km) with dramatic waterfall scenery to keep younger walkers engaged. The Hillwalk routes along the Spinc are only suitable for experienced walkers; they should not be attempted with young children.
Do I need any special experience for the Spinc walks?
Yes. All three Spinc routes are graded Hillwalk, which means they pass close to exposed cliffs, involve steep and boggy mountain terrain, and require navigational experience. Strong waterproof boots, a map and compass, full raingear, and layers are essential. Tell someone your planned route and expected return time before you set out. Mountain Rescue can be contacted by dialling 999 or 112.
What wildlife might I see on the Glendalough walks?
Glendalough is excellent for wildlife. Red deer are seen in the Glenealo Valley, particularly in autumn during the rut. Feral goats roam the Miners’ Road. Peregrine Falcons soar above the cliffs, and Raven, Merlin, and Kestrel are spotted on the higher Spinc routes. Red Squirrels and Treecreepers inhabit the Derrybawn woodlands, while the Lower Lake boardwalk is a good spot for common lizards and dragonflies in summer.
Is there parking at Glendalough?
Yes. There is parking at the Upper Lake (approximately €4 per car) where all 9 walks begin, and near the Visitor Centre at the Lower Lake. Both car parks fill quickly on summer weekends, arriving before 9am is recommended if you’re planning a hillwalk.
Where can I eat after walking in Glendalough?
The Wicklow Heather Restaurant in Laragh village is just minutes from Glendalough and has been welcoming walkers for over 50 years. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, we serve classic Irish dishes made with locally sourced produce. Whether you want a hot bowl of soup after a rainy hillwalk or a full evening meal, we’d love to see you. Booking is recommended at weekends, you can reserve a table at wicklowheather.ie/bookings.
Is Glendalough good for walking in winter?
Yes, the lower valley walks are enjoyable year-round. The Green Road Walk and Miners’ Road Walk are manageable in winter with appropriate footwear. The Spinc hillwalks require extra caution in winter, ice, short daylight hours, and limited visibility are real concerns, and only experienced hillwalkers with full navigation skills should attempt them in poor conditions.