Glendalough · County Wicklow

Miners' Road (Green Trail)

Last verified May 2026 · Trail open

The Miners' Road is a mostly flat, scenic 5–6 km return walk from Glendalough's Upper Lake car park along the lakeshore to the historic mining village in the Glenealo Valley. Very little climbing, broad gravel paths, suitable for casual walkers and families. Allow 1.5–2 hours.

5 km
Distance
1h 30m
Typical time
20 m
Climb
Easy
Difficulty
lakeside
Type
Waymarking: White arrows
Route on map

Where this walk goes

Start point shown — click the marker to get directions. Zoom in to explore the area.

Why you'll like it

Highlights of this walk

  • Scenic low-level walk with very little climbing
  • Views to the Spinc ridge across the Upper Lake
  • Historic ruins of the lead mining village at the head of the valley
  • Suitable for casual walkers and families
  • Red squirrels, deer, woodland birds and feral goats sometimes seen
Route & directions

How to walk it

Start at the Upper Lake car park in Glendalough. The Miners' Road Walk (purple arrows) is a mostly flat 5–6 km return linear walk following the lakeshore from the Upper Lake car park to the former mining village in the Glenealo Valley before returning the same way. A separate Green Road Walk (green arrows, 3 km loop) circles the Lower Lake area. Allow 1.5–2 hours for the Miners' Road return at a relaxed pace. Wide gravel and sandy paths with rougher surfaces near the mining ruins.

Local tips

  • Comfortable walking shoes are fine — no boots needed
  • Valley feels colder and windier near the mining ruins
  • Watch for red squirrels, deer, woodland birds and feral goats
  • Purple arrows for Miners' Road, green for Green Road
  • Upper Lake car park busy on weekends and in summer
Live conditions —°C Sunset — via Open-Meteo · Wicklow Mtns
Where to stay

Accommodation near this walk

★ Premium Partner

Madeline's Accommodation

Tinahely Town Square · south Wicklow

A beautifully restored historic guesthouse on the Square in Tinahely — the Wicklow Way passes through the village. Double, twin and small-double rooms, all with private bathrooms. Self-service coded entry — arrive when it suits you.

Guesthouse Private Bathrooms Keypad Entry Village Centre On the Wicklow Way
Listen as you walk

Audio tour for this walk

A local voice in your ear as you walk — stories, history, folklore. Works offline once downloaded. Transcript included.

Buy for €3.99