Wicklow Way: Ireland's Pioneering Trail

Hike Ireland's first National Waymarked Trail: a 131km journey through Wicklow's stunning mountains, valleys, and historic landscapes.

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Wicklow Way

The Wicklow Way, a 131-kilometer trail through the Wicklow Mountains, offers a varied landscape of forests, valleys, and moorland. Opened in 1980, it was Ireland's first official long-distance walking route and remains popular with hikers seeking a multi-day adventure.

A brief summary to Wicklow Way

Local tips

Plan your trip between May and September for favorable weather and longer daylight hours.
Book accommodations in advance, as options along the route are limited and can fill up quickly.
Be prepared for changing weather conditions; pack waterproof gear and layers.
Utilize the Wicklow Way Bus service to shorten your hike or return to Dublin from various points along the trail.
Take note of car park closing times if leaving a vehicle at Marlay Park, the northern trailhead.

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Getting There

Public Transport

To reach the northern trailhead at Marlay Park from Dublin city center, take Dublin Bus route No. 16 from O'Connell Street. The bus stop is conveniently located near the park entrance. A single fare is approximately €3.30, payable with a Leap Visitor Card or in cash.
Car

If driving to Marlay Park, be aware of the car park's opening hours (10:00 AM) and variable seasonal closing times. Parking is available at the North car park near Marlay House and Craft Centre. Parking is free. Crone car park is another option, and it provides access to trails with views of Powerscourt Waterfall, but it also closes for the night.
Wicklow Way Bus

The Wicklow Way Bus provides services to several points along the trail, including Laragh, Glendalough, Glenmalure, Iron Bridge and Tinahely. This is useful for shortened versions of the walk. For example, a one-way ticket from Rathdrum Station to Glendalough/Glenmalure costs €8. Bookings should be made at least 24 hours in advance.

Discover more about Wicklow Way

The Wicklow Way is a 131-kilometer (81-mile) long-distance trail that traverses the scenic Wicklow Mountains, stretching from Marlay Park in south Dublin to Clonegal in County Carlow. As Ireland's first National Waymarked Trail, established in 1980, it holds a special place in the country's hiking history. Conceived by J.B. Malone, the trail was designed to showcase the beauty and diversity of the Irish landscape. The path leads hikers through a tapestry of terrains, from forests and open moorland to mountains, upland lakes, and glacial valleys. The northern sections present more challenging climbs and dramatic scenery, while the southern stretches offer gentler, rolling foothills. Along the way, hikers encounter historical sites such as the monastic city at Glendalough, adding cultural depth to the natural splendor. Typically completed in 5-7 days, the Wicklow Way is well-marked with yellow "walking man" symbols, making it accessible for self-guided tours. Despite its popularity, with certain sections seeing up to 24,000 walkers annually, the trail maintains a sense of remoteness, providing a rewarding experience for those seeking immersion in nature.