Enniskerry · County Wicklow

Powerscourt Waterfall Walk

Last verified May 2026 · Trail open

Ireland's tallest waterfall at the end of a short, easy walk through ancient woodland. Perfect with kids.

3.5 km
Distance
1h
Typical time
50 m
Climb
Easy
Difficulty
forest
Type
Waymarking: Blue arrows
Route on map

Where this walk goes

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

Powerscourt Waterfall Walk · route notes

Why you’ll like it

  • One of the most famous waterfall settings in Ireland
  • Scenic woodland walking beneath the slopes of the Wicklow Mountains
  • Views of Powerscourt Waterfall, the highest waterfall in Ireland at 121 metres
  • Family-friendly trails with relatively gentle terrain
  • Mature trees, riverside scenery and picnic areas throughout the estate
  • Located close to Powerscourt Estate and Enniskerry village

Route & directions

The Powerscourt Waterfall walking area is located within the Powerscourt Estate near Enniskerry in north County Wicklow. The walks here combine woodland paths, riverside trails and estate tracks surrounding the waterfall and nearby forest areas.

📍 Start: Powerscourt Waterfall car park

Waterfall & Riverside Walk
  • Distance: approximately 1–2 km depending on route taken
  • Terrain: woodland paths, gravel tracks and riverside trails
  • Difficulty: Easy

This shorter walk follows the paths around Powerscourt Waterfall and the nearby riverside woodland. The waterfall drops approximately 121 metres from the slopes of the Wicklow Mountains and is surrounded by mature beech, oak and conifer woodland.

The route includes riverside sections beside the River Dargle and several viewpoints looking towards the waterfall and surrounding forested valley. Walking surfaces are generally well maintained but can become slippery after rain.

Waterfall Woodland Trails
  • Distance: variable depending on paths used
  • Terrain: forest tracks, woodland trails and gravel paths
  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Additional woodland trails extend through the surrounding estate woodland and lower mountain slopes near the waterfall. These quieter sections provide views across the valley and pass through mature forest areas. Some paths include gradual inclines and uneven forest terrain.

Local tips

  • Powerscourt Waterfall is located on private estate grounds with paid visitor access
  • Public parking is available at the waterfall site
  • The area can become extremely busy during weekends, holidays and summer months
  • Waterproof footwear is useful after rain as woodland sections can become muddy or slippery
  • Picnic and visitor facilities are available within the waterfall grounds
  • The waterfall is a short drive from Enniskerry village and Powerscourt Estate gardens
Where to stay

Accommodation near this walk

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

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