This trail follows the Wicklow Way to visit the Poulanass Waterfall and several fantastic viewpoints of the valley before visiting the site of the monastic city on the way back to the car park. Start this trail from the Glendalough Upper Lake car park. Glendalough Valley, whose name comes from the Irish “Gleann Dá Loch”, meaning “valley of two lakes”. Follow the path across the Lugduff Brook before embarking on the steep ascent alongside it, which leads you to the Poulanass Waterfall, an impressive sight as the water cascades through the woodland, offering excellent photo opportunities. Cross the Lugduff Brook higher up and continue on the Wicklow Way through the woodland, passing several excellent viewpoints of the lakes on the way. Follow the switchback descent to the valley and continue along the Glendasan River past Glendalough and along the southern banks of Lower Lake to return to the car park. There is a lot of varied terrain on this route.

Grade: Moderate
Distance: 7.7km
Estimated Time: 2hrs
Type: Loop