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Ireland🇮🇪 | hikesWicklow Wayupland forests, granite ridges, remote valleys | things to do and best time to go

Explore Kerry WayExplore Sheep’s Head Way

Backpacking in Wicklow Way
🏆 Top pickhike ranked #1
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated September 23, 2026

Most summaries sell the Wicklow Way as a gentle “intro to Irish hiking,” but the surprise is how quickly it turns into a real grind once you’re carrying a full pack and the weather turns sideways. The trail runs south from the edge of Dublin into County Wicklow’s hills, threading through forests, boggy plateaus, and sheep-bitten farmland. You get big payoffs: dawn over Dublin Bay, the wide bowl of Glendalough, long ridges where the wind shoves you around and you feel the miles in your legs. It’s around 130 km, very doable in a week, but the constant up-and-down and wet ground can chew up beginners. Reaching the northern trailhead is almost laughably easy by bus from Dublin, which makes it more accessible than wilder Irish routes like the Kerry Way, but also busier and more managed. I still remember my first Wicklow Way blister more clearly than my first Wicklow Way view.

Discover everything you want to know in the 📖 Ireland Travel Guide.
Best time to go: March - October
Duration: 7 days
Distance: 132 kilometers
Total ascent: 3,000 meters


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✨ Why go?
Ranked #1 hike in IrelandWhy Wicklow Way should be on your travel list

The Wicklow Way is a magnet for backpackers craving a mix of challenge and reward. This trail offers a scenery-to-effort ratio that’s hard to beat. Picture rolling hills, shimmering lakes, and rugged mountains—all within reach after a day’s trek. You’ll feel the burn in your legs, but the views at the top make every step worthwhile.

Getting there is a breeze. Public transport access is solid, with buses and trains connecting Dublin to the trailhead. You can hop on a bus, and within an hour, you’re surrounded by nature, ready to dive into the adventure.

Cost? Minimal. The Wicklow Way is a low-cost option for those on a budget. You can camp or find affordable hostels along the route, keeping your wallet happy while you soak in the Irish landscape.

Flexibility is key here. You can choose … read more 👉
The Wicklow Way is a magnet for backpackers craving a mix of challenge and reward. This trail offers a scenery-to-effort ratio that’s hard to beat. Picture rolling hills, shimmering lakes, and rugged mountains—all within reach after a day’s trek. You’ll feel the burn in your legs, but the views at the top make every step worthwhile.

Getting there is a breeze. Public transport access is solid, with buses and trains connecting Dublin to the trailhead. You can hop on a bus, and within an hour, you’re surrounded by nature, ready to dive into the adventure.

Cost? Minimal. The Wicklow Way is a low-cost option for those on a budget. You can camp or find affordable hostels along the route, keeping your wallet happy while you soak in the Irish landscape.

Flexibility is key here. You can choose your daily distances, making it easy to adapt based on your energy levels or the weather. Plus, it fits seamlessly into a longer backpacking route through Ireland, allowing you to explore more of this stunning country. Each step on the Wicklow Way is a step into the heart of Ireland’s wild beauty.

💡 HighlightsWhat this place is best known for

  1. Glendalough Monastic City & Upper Lake — A rare combo of history and scenery: a 6th-century monastic settlement with a round tower and ruined churches sitting right beside mirror-calm lakes. The boardwalks and cliff viewpoints make it feel cinematic, and it’s the cultural heart of the Wicklow Way — great for a coffee stop and stretching sore legs.
  2. Lough Dan — A moody corrie lake hugged by steep, boggy slopes; the water turns black and reflective after rain, and the cliffs give a very “Ireland in a postcard” vibe without the crowds. Quiet, dramatic and perfect for low-effort wild photos or a reflective break — personal favorite because the light there always seems to change the place into something new.
  3. Glenmalure Valley — A deep glacial U-shaped valley with a wild river, ragged hillsides
… read more 👉
  1. Glendalough Monastic City & Upper Lake — A rare combo of history and scenery: a 6th-century monastic settlement with a round tower and ruined churches sitting right beside mirror-calm lakes. The boardwalks and cliff viewpoints make it feel cinematic, and it’s the cultural heart of the Wicklow Way — great for a coffee stop and stretching sore legs.
  2. Lough Dan — A moody corrie lake hugged by steep, boggy slopes; the water turns black and reflective after rain, and the cliffs give a very “Ireland in a postcard” vibe without the crowds. Quiet, dramatic and perfect for low-effort wild photos or a reflective break — personal favorite because the light there always seems to change the place into something new.
  3. Glenmalure Valley — A deep glacial U-shaped valley with a wild river, ragged hillsides and an isolated, ancient feeling. It’s less manicured than Glendalough, good for feeling properly remote, and it comes with local history (and a real sense of scale) that separates this walk from ordinary countryside rambling.
  4. Sally Gap / Wicklow Gap moorlands — Open peatland, huge skies and wind-swept ridges — this is the “big country” bit of the trail. The landscape is simple but dramatic: blanket bog, heather, and long sightlines you don’t get on wooded paths. Weather here can flip fast, which makes the atmosphere unforgettable (and great for dramatic photos).
  5. Central Massif & Lugnaquilla Views — The high backbone of the Wicklows where you get proper mountain panoramas toward Lugnaquilla, the range’s highest peak. Even if you don’t summit, the upland ridges deliver wide, raw vistas and a different ecosystem — peat hags, hardy birds and that exposed, mountain-feeling terrain you won’t find on lowland trails.
Spotted a mistake or missing something? Contact us.

Things to do around Wicklow Way

Wicklow Mountains Horse Trekking

Wicklow Mountains Horse Trekking

5.0(159) 1h 20m
From €75
per personViator
Russborough House and Parklands Admission and Tour Ticket

Russborough House and Parklands Admission and Tour Ticket

4.8(57) 1h
From €14.50
per personViator
Guided House Tour in Ireland

Guided House Tour in Ireland

5.0(14) 1h
From €16
per personViator
Private Day Tour in Wicklow Mountains and Vacation Photography

Private Day Tour in Wicklow Mountains and Vacation Photography

5.0(5) 9h
From €1,650
per personViator
Walking Tour in Ireland Hidden Glendalough and Valleys Secrets

Walking Tour in Ireland Hidden Glendalough and Valleys Secrets

0.0(0) 5h
From €65
per personViator
Druids Glen Hotel & Golf Resort To Dublin Airport Private Chauffeur Transfer

Druids Glen Hotel & Golf Resort To Dublin Airport Private Chauffeur Transfer

0.0(0)
From €219
per personViator
Tinakilly Country House Hotel To Dublin Airport Private Chauffeur Transfer

Tinakilly Country House Hotel To Dublin Airport Private Chauffeur Transfer

0.0(0)
From €306
per personViator
Arklow To Dublin Airport Private Car Transfer

Arklow To Dublin Airport Private Car Transfer

0.0(0)
From €550
per personViator
Chester Beatty County Wicklow To Dublin Airport Private Chauffeur Transfer

Chester Beatty County Wicklow To Dublin Airport Private Chauffeur Transfer

0.0(0)
From €328
per personViator
Chester Beatty County Wicklow To Dublin Airport Private Chauffeur Transfer

Chester Beatty County Wicklow To Dublin Airport Private Chauffeur Transfer

0.0(0)
From €317
per personViator

Ratings based on Tripadvisor reviews. When you book through this link, you support our work at no extra cost to you.

🌤️ When to go?When to go for the best experience

  • Weather: Spring and early autumn deliver the most reliable weather on the Wicklow Way. Expect rain, but it’s usually light and sporadic. Summer can scorch unexpectedly, pushing temps to 20-25°C (68-77°F), while winter drags temps down to freezing, often with muddy, slippery trails.
  • Temperature: Late May to September offers a sweet spot—daytime highs hover between 15-20°C (59-68°F), cool enough to keep you moving without overheating. Nights can dip to 8-12°C (46-54°F), so pack layers.
  • Daylight Hours: Long summer days stretch light until 10 pm, giving you extra hours to cover ground or soak in views. Winter days shrink to barely 8 hours of light, cramping your pace and forcing early stops.
  • Crowds: July and August bring the biggest crowds, especially on weekends. Trails and hostels fill
… read more 👉
  • Weather: Spring and early autumn deliver the most reliable weather on the Wicklow Way. Expect rain, but it’s usually light and sporadic. Summer can scorch unexpectedly, pushing temps to 20-25°C (68-77°F), while winter drags temps down to freezing, often with muddy, slippery trails.
  • Temperature: Late May to September offers a sweet spot—daytime highs hover between 15-20°C (59-68°F), cool enough to keep you moving without overheating. Nights can dip to 8-12°C (46-54°F), so pack layers.
  • Daylight Hours: Long summer days stretch light until 10 pm, giving you extra hours to cover ground or soak in views. Winter days shrink to barely 8 hours of light, cramping your pace and forcing early stops.
  • Crowds: July and August bring the biggest crowds, especially on weekends. Trails and hostels fill up fast, which can dull the rugged solitude that makes Wicklow special. Shoulder seasons offer quieter paths and more breathing room.
  • Seasonal Activities: Summer hosts local festivals and open-air events in nearby towns, adding cultural flavor if you time it right. Spring blooms and autumn foliage turn the landscape into a living canvas, rewarding your effort with vivid colors.
  • Price Fluctuations: Accommodation and transport costs spike in peak summer. Booking early can save you a bundle. Off-season rates drop noticeably, but some services may reduce hours or close entirely.
Pro-tip: Aim for late May or early October to dodge crowds, catch crisp air, and still enjoy long daylight—perfect for pushing hard on the trail and rewarding yourself with a pint at day’s end.


source: climatestotravel.comJANJanuary: below average for travelingFEBFebruary: below average for travelingMARMarch: good for travelingAPRApril: highly recommended for travelingMAYMay: excellent for travelingJUNJune: excellent for travelingJULJuly: highly recommended for travelingAUGAugust: highly recommended for travelingSEPSeptember: excellent for travelingOCTOctober: excellent for travelingNOVNovember: fair for travelingDECDecember: below average for traveling
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🛏️ Where to stay?How to pick the right area

If you enjoy meeting fellow travelers, consider choosing hostels with high ratings for atmosphere. On the other hand, if you prefer having your own space, a hotel might be a better option.

Best hostels in Ireland


Best quality hotels in Ireland

🥾 Hike detailsEverything you need to know before hiking Wicklow Way

Total Distance: Approximately 132 kilometers (82 miles) from start to finish, the Wicklow Way is a long-distance trail that can be split into manageable sections.

Estimated Duration: Most hikers take about 5 to 7 days to complete the entire trail, depending on their pace and how much time they spend exploring along the way.

Difficulty Level: Moderate to challenging. While it’s generally well-marked, there are some steep ascents and descents that can be tough, especially in wet conditions.

Starting Point: The trail begins in Dublin, specifically at Marlay Park in Rathfarnham.
  • Public Transport:
… read more 👉
Total Distance: Approximately 132 kilometers (82 miles) from start to finish, the Wicklow Way is a long-distance trail that can be split into manageable sections.

Estimated Duration: Most hikers take about 5 to 7 days to complete the entire trail, depending on their pace and how much time they spend exploring along the way.

Difficulty Level: Moderate to challenging. While it’s generally well-marked, there are some steep ascents and descents that can be tough, especially in wet conditions.

Starting Point: The trail begins in Dublin, specifically at Marlay Park in Rathfarnham.
  • Public Transport: You can take the Luas (light rail) to Balally station and then catch a bus (like the 16 or 75) to get to Marlay Park. It’s a short walk from the bus stop to the park entrance.

Major Landmarks Along the Route:
  • Knockree Hill: Offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys.
  • Glendalough: A picturesque valley with ancient monastic ruins and two beautiful lakes.
  • Lugnaquilla: The highest peak in the Wicklow Mountains, a rewarding climb for those who venture off the main path.
  • The Spinc: A ridge walk with breathtaking views of Glendalough.

Type of Terrain and Scenery: Expect a mix of rocky paths, forest trails, and open mountain tracks. The scenery ranges from lush green valleys and rolling hills to rugged mountain ridges. You’ll find yourself walking through charming woodlands and alongside serene lakes.

Typical Vegetation and Wildlife:
  • Vegetation: The area is rich in heather, gorse, and various wildflowers. In the lower areas, you’ll see oak and birch trees.
  • Wildlife: Keep an eye out for deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species, including the majestic peregrine falcon.

Pack plenty of water and snacks, and don’t forget a good map or GPS. It’s a fantastic trail, but the weather can change quickly, so be prepared!
⚠️ Hiking info can sometimes be outdated or inaccurate. Before you hit the trail, check the latest conditions with locals. If you do spot anything that's off, I'd love to hear from you, so I can update it for fellow travelers.

🛡️ SafetyTraveler Safety Guide

The Wicklow Way is a feast for the senses, but it demands respect. Weather can shift in an instant. One moment, you’re basking in sunshine; the next, a mist rolls in, drenching you. Dress in layers and pack a reliable rain jacket.

The terrain varies, with some steep sections that will get your heart racing. Watch your footing on rocky paths and be mindful of muddy stretches after rain. Navigation is straightforward, but a map or GPS can save you from unnecessary detours.

Wildlife is part of the charm. You might spot deer or hear the call of a buzzard. Keep your distance; observe, don’t disturb.

First-timers often underestimate the trail’s demands. Start early to avoid the crowds and give yourself time to savor the views. Hydration is key—carry enough water, especially on warmer days. … read more 👉
The Wicklow Way is a feast for the senses, but it demands respect. Weather can shift in an instant. One moment, you’re basking in sunshine; the next, a mist rolls in, drenching you. Dress in layers and pack a reliable rain jacket.

The terrain varies, with some steep sections that will get your heart racing. Watch your footing on rocky paths and be mindful of muddy stretches after rain. Navigation is straightforward, but a map or GPS can save you from unnecessary detours.

Wildlife is part of the charm. You might spot deer or hear the call of a buzzard. Keep your distance; observe, don’t disturb.

First-timers often underestimate the trail’s demands. Start early to avoid the crowds and give yourself time to savor the views. Hydration is key—carry enough water, especially on warmer days.

Embrace the challenge; the reward is a breathtaking vista or a well-earned pint at the end of the day.
Check Country Safety

FAQTraveler FAQ

The Wicklow Way hike typically takes 5 to 7 days to complete, covering approximately 130 kilometers (81 miles) from Dublin to Clonegal. Most hikers plan for around 6 days to allow for a steady pace and rest breaks.
The difficulty of the Wicklow Way is moderate. It includes a mix of forest trails, mountain paths, and some steep sections, with daily elevation gains averaging 300-500 meters. Good fitness and proper hiking gear are recommended due to variable weather and terrain.
No guide or permit is required to hike the Wicklow Way. The trail is well-marked and publicly accessible year-round, but carrying a detailed map or GPS is advisable for navigation.
⚠️ Things can change over time, so always validate details locally before you go.

Other Irish hikes near Wicklow Way

Explore more nearby:

  • Glendalough—glacial lakes, monastic ruins, wooded slopes| 11 km away
  • Burren Way—limestone pavements, rare wildflowers, ancient tombs| 187 km away
  • Kerry Way—mountain passes, bogland trails, lakeside stretches| 260 km away

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We 💚 feedbackParting advice and final tips

The Wicklow Way is a slice of heaven for anyone craving raw beauty. Picture this: rolling hills, ancient forests, and the thrill of spotting a deer just off the trail. But let’s be real—those muddy paths can be relentless, especially after rain. You’ll earn every step, but the payoff? A pint in a cozy pub, swapping stories with locals. It’s a journey that sticks with you, grit and all.

✈️ When did I visit Ireland?
Ireland was the last country of my 1.5 year travel around the world trip, which was July 2016. In July 2023 I visited Ireland again.

✍️ Help improve this page!
The information on this page is based on my own backpacking experience in Ireland, supplemented with up-to-date research and feedback from other travelers. Travel details can change, so if you notice anything outdated or incomplete, feel free to let me know.



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👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

Johan, backpacker and founder of TakeYourBackpackHi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past 3 decades, I’ve backpacked through 90+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.

This site is built on a combination of firsthand travel experience and carefully curated insights from other backpackers. Many guides are based on places I’ve personally visited, while others bring together tips, observations, and practical advice shared by trusted travelers I’ve met along the way.

The goal is to provide realistic, experience-driven guidance — not generic itineraries — so you can explore destinations with better context, clearer expectations, and more confidence.

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