Visit Us
Wicklow Mountains National Park extends over 20,000 hectares of upland mountain scenery on the doorstep of Dublin. The landscape is a product of the interaction between man and nature over thousands of years, but you can still get a real feeling of wilderness. The National Park welcomes visitors all year round. An open access policy applies on Park lands allowing visitors to explore freely on foot. Temporary restrictions may however apply in certain areas or for certain activities.
Getting Here
The National Park is a large area and may be accessed from different directions by both private transport and a limited public transport system.
Maps
There are a number of maps and walking books available that visitors to the Park may find useful.
Glendalough
The valley of Glendalough is the most visited area of the Park. Its wooded valley contains stunning scenery, way-marked walking trails, a historic monastic settlement, and is the location for the National Park’s Information Office and Education Centre.
Walking Trails of Glendalough
There are nine way-marked walking trails in the valley of Glendalough. The walks vary from a short half hour stroll to a long four hour hillwalk.
Glendalough Nature Trails
Download nature trail guides to accompany some of the Walking Trails of Glendalough.
Education
The National Park runs an education centre at Glendalough, with programmes for visiting primary and secondary schools, summer projects, third level and adult groups. The same team of education staff also operate a second education centre in Knocksink Wood Nature Reserve, outside the National Park in Enniskerry. It operates a similar programme.
Events
Throughout the year, the National Park organises a series of special events for visitors. These range from Family Fun Days for children to specialised nature walks. All events are free of charge.
Recreation
Visitors are welcome to enjoy the National Park, but in the interests of conservation, some activities may not be allowed or may require a permit.
Mountain Safety
All visitors to the National Park are asked to observe guidelines to ensure their own saftey in the hills. In the event of an accident, Wicklow has two mountain rescue teams.
Leave No Trace
We ask all visitors to the National Park to follow the principles of Leave No Trace.
Accommodation Options
Visitors may choose to stay overnight and there are a number of options available.
Climate
Weather varies rapidly in the National Park. The phrase ‘four seasons in one day’ often applies.
Biting Midges
In summer months, biting midges can prove annoying for visitors. However, it is possible to take steps to minimise the problem.
Lyme Disease & Ticks
Visitors to the Park should be aware of the small risk of Lyme Disease, contracted through ticks in the hills.