Walking  

Whether taking a short stroll, following a way marked trail, or going for a serious hike across the mountains, walking is the most popular recreational activity within the National Park.

The Walking Trails of Glendalough

There is an extensive network of nine way-marked walking trails in the valley of Glendalough. Trail times vary from 30 minutes to four hours. Large maps of the walks are displayed at the Monastic City Visitor Centre and on the Notice Board at the Upper Lake car park.

Latest News: Trails

Check out the state of trails within the Park before you set out on a hike.

Glendalough Nature Trails

Download nature trail notes to accompany some of the Walking Trails of Glendalough.

Hiking Essentials

Useful information for anyone wanting to go hillwalking or hiking in the Wicklow Mountains.

Mountain Safety

All visitors to the Park are asked to observe considerations for their own safety. In the event of an accident, Wicklow has two mountain rescue teams.

Leave No Trace

The seven principles of Leave No Trace aim to minimise the impact that we have on the wild places that we visit.

The Wicklow Way

The Wicklow Way is a long distance walking route which passes through the Park. Some walkers attempt the 139km in one expedition but it can also be taken in sections as shorter walks. Guides to the Wicklow Way are available to purchase from the Upper Lake Information Office. Details of accommodation along the trail can be found on Wicklow Way.com

St. Kevin's Way

St. Kevin's Way is a 30km pilgrim route from Hollywood to Glendalough, over the Wicklow Gap.

Other Trails

The National Trails Office website, www.irishtrails.ie has details of way-marked trails all over Ireland.

Note: Special events and large groups will require a permit.

If you have any queries, please contact us by telephone, email, post or in person.