Wicklow, known as the “Garden of Ireland,” offers some of the best trail running and fast hiking routes in the country, with diverse landscapes ranging from rugged peaks to scenic valleys. See below a selection of the local favourite areas to trail run or hike in Wicklow.
Bray & Kilmacanogue
Bray and Kilmacanogue offer some of the best trail running terrain in Wicklow, with a mix of coastal views, rocky climbs, and rolling hills. The Great Sugarloaf provides a steep but rewarding ascent, while the Little Sugarloaf and Bray Head offer scenic routes overlooking the Irish Sea and Wicklow Mountains. Trail runners can take on a 10K loop over Bray Head, a challenging climb of the Sugarloaf, or a demanding 20K route from Kilmacanogue back to Bray, featuring nearly 1,000m of elevation gain.
This destination is accessible by Public Transport by Train or bus
Starting Locations:
- Bray Seafront: accessible by DART train from Dublin City Centre
- Kilmacanoque: accessible by Dublin Bus
Suggested Trails:
Djouce Mountain
Djouce Mountain is a top trail running destination in Wicklow, offering a mix of technical climbs, fast descents, and stunning panoramic views. Accessible from Crone Woods, Djouce Woods, or Lough Tay (the Guinness Lake), runners can choose from a variety of routes that suit different distances and elevations. The Wicklow Way runs along its slopes and the well-maintained network of trails offer options for everything from short, intense climbs to long endurance runs. The Djouce area is not accessible by public transport.
Starting Locations:
Suggested Trails:
- See suggested trail at link: https://visitwicklow.ie/listing/djouce-mountain/
Glendalough Valley
Glendalough Valley is arguably the best trail running destination in Ireland, combining stunning glacial landscapes with a rich historical backdrop. With a vast network of trails, runners can take on everything from short, scenic routes to long, challenging climbs. Iconic trails like the Spinc, Derrybawn Ridge, and sections of the Wicklow Way offer breathtaking views, technical terrain, and serious elevation gains. Whether you’re after a fast forest run or a demanding mountain route, Glendalough delivers unmatched variety in one of Ireland’s most beautiful and historic settings.
Glendalough is accessible by public transport from Dublin, Bray or Wicklow Town by bus.
Starting Locations:
Suggested Trails:
- Discover the extensive network of Glendalough trails at https://visitwicklow.ie/listing-category/glendalough-walks/
Tinahely
Tinahely, located in County Wicklow, Ireland, is a fantastic spot for trail running, offering a mix of scenic rolling hills, forest paths, and open countryside. The area is home to several well-maintained trails, including the Tinahely Railway Walk and Maghan Loop. These trails provide a variety of terrain, from gentle inclines to more challenging hill climbs, making them ideal for runners looking for both endurance training and breathtaking views. Tinahely is accessible by bus from Arklow.
Starting Location:
Suggested Trails:
- Discover the network of Tinahely Trails at https://visitwicklow.ie/listing-category/tinahely-walks/
