Glendalough Miners’ Road Walk: Purple Route to the Miners’ Village
The Glendalough Miners’ Road Walk, also known as the Purple Route, is one of the best easy walks in Glendalough.
Starting from the Upper Lake car park, this walk follows the northern shore of Glendalough Upper Lake towards the old Miners’ Village. The trail is mostly flat, easy to follow, and gives you beautiful views across the lake towards the Spinc cliffs.
This is a great walk if you want something a little more dramatic than the short Green Road Walk, but without taking on the full Spinc hike. You still get lake views, forest paths, mountain scenery, mining ruins, and a real sense of Glendalough’s history.
The walk is around 5 km to 5.5 km in total, depending on exactly where you start and finish. The Miners’ Road Walk is a very straightforward trail. You follow the Purple Route from the Upper Lake car park to the Miners’ Village and return the same way.
For beginners, families, casual walkers, or anyone visiting Glendalough for the first time, the Miners’ Road Walk is a brilliant option.
You can view and follow the full route map for the Glendalough Miners’ Road Walk on Hiiker here:
Glendalough Miners’ Road Walk Snapshot
| Hike Distance: | 5 km |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Duration | 1 hour 10 minutes |
| Total | Low |
| Trail Type: | Linear / out and back |
| Waymarking: | Purple route |
| Buggy Friendly: | Partly, but not ideal all the way to the Miners’ Village |
| Dogs: | Allowed on lead |
| Start Point: | Upper Lake car park, Glendalough |
| Dublin Drive: | 60 minutes |
| Glendalough Miner Road Walk Map | Glendalough Miner Road Walk Map |
| Best For: | Beginners, families, casual walkers |
| Main Beauty: | Upper Lake, Spinc cliffs, Scots pine woodland, Glenealo River, Miners’ Village |
Where Does the Miners’ Road Walk Start?
The Miners’ Road Walk starts at the Upper Lake car park in Glendalough.
This is the same starting point as the Glendalough Green Road Walk, and it is the most convenient place to begin the Purple Route.
From the car park, take the path that goes towards Glendalough Upper Lake. The Miners’ Road is on the right-hand side as you approach the lake area, following the northern shore of the lake.
The route is on the opposite side from the Spinc cliffs, which rise high above the southern side of the valley.
If you are driving from Dublin, allow around 60 to 75 minutes, depending on traffic and where you are starting from.
Parking at the Upper Lake Car Park
The Upper Lake car park is the best place to park for the Miners’ Road Walk.
The parking fee is €5.You can pay cash or by card.
There are toilets near the Upper Lake area, and you are close to the main starting point for several Glendalough walking trails, including the Green Road Walk, the Miners’ Road Walk, and the Glendalough Spinc walk.
The car park can get very busy at weekends and on bank holiday weekends, especially when the weather is good. From my own experience, it is much better to arrive early.
On a busy day, if you arrive too late, you may have to wait before getting a parking space.
For this walk, I recommend starting from the Upper Lake car park rather than the Visitor Centre car park. It puts you right beside the start of the Purple Route and avoids adding unnecessary distance to the walk.
Glendalough Miners’ Road Walk: The Trail
From the Upper Lake car park, take the path towards Glendalough Upper Lake.
After less than 200 metres, you cross a small wooden bridge over the Glenealo River. Once you have crossed the bridge, veer left and follow the wide paved road as it leads gently into the valley.
This is the start of the Miners’ Road.
The path is wide, clear, and mostly flat, which makes this one of the easier walks in Glendalough. It is a very pleasant trail from the beginning, with forest around you and the mountains rising on both sides of the valley.
As you continue towards the Miners’ Village, the Upper Lake stays on your left-hand side.
The first part of the walk goes through a beautiful wooded section. The road passes through Scots pine and native trees, with regular views opening out across the lake.
Across the water, you can see the steep slopes and cliffs of the Spinc. This gives the walk a much more dramatic feel than you might expect from such an easy route.
One of the best things about the Miners’ Road Walk is that you get a real sense of the Glendalough valley without needing to do a difficult climb. The path takes you deeper into the valley, but the walking remains gentle and straightforward.
Compared with the Green Road Walk, this route feels more open and mountainous. The Green Road is shorter, quieter, and more sheltered in the trees. The Miners’ Road Walk is longer, more dramatic, and gives you better views of the lake and the Spinc cliffs.
As you continue, the valley starts to feel wilder. The crowds thin out a little, the lake stretches beside you, and the old mining landscape begins to appear ahead.
After around 2.5 km, you reach the old Miners’ Village.
This is the main highlight of the walk.
The ruined stone buildings sit at the far end of the Upper Lake and are a reminder of Glendalough’s mining history. It is a lovely place to stop for a while, take photos, and enjoy the view back down the valley.
The setting is beautiful. You have the lake behind you, the mountains around you, and the old ruins giving the place a real sense of history.
Once you have explored the Miners’ Village, most walkers turn around and return the same way to the Upper Lake car park.
Because this is a linear walk, the return route is very easy. You simply follow the same road back, this time with the Upper Lake on your right-hand side.
The views feel slightly different on the way back, so the return walk does not feel boring. You get another chance to enjoy the lake, the forest, and the cliffs of the Spinc across the water.
The Miners’ Village in Glendalough
The Miners’ Village is what makes this walk stand out from many of the other easy walks in Glendalough.
Most visitors know Glendalough for its lakes, monastic site, and mountain scenery. But the valley also has an important mining history.
The ruined buildings near the end of the Upper Lake are a reminder of that past. They give the walk a clear destination and add a historical element to the route.
Even though the Miners’ Village is only around 2.5 km from the car park, it feels much more remote. The valley is quieter here, and the mountain scenery feels more rugged.
Take your time to look around the ruins, but be careful where you walk. Do not enter any unsafe areas, and do not try to access any underground mine sections.
For me, this is one of the best parts of the walk. It turns a simple lakeside stroll into something more memorable.
Can You Continue to the Spinc from the Miners’ Village?
Yes, you can continue beyond the Miners’ Village and climb the steep zig-zag path up towards the Spinc.
This connects with the Spinc and Glenealo Valley Walk, also known as the White Route.
However, this changes the walk completely.
The Miners’ Road Walk itself is easy, mostly flat, and suitable for most walkers. The zig-zag climb up towards the Spinc is steep and much more demanding.
If you continue this way, you are no longer doing just the Purple Route. You are joining one of the most famous hikes in Wicklow, with a longer distance, more climbing, and a higher level of difficulty.
If you are courageous, have enough time, and are properly prepared, this is a fantastic option. The Spinc Walk gives you some of the best views in Glendalough.
But if you are looking for an easy walk, I recommend turning back at the Miners’ Village.
You can read my full guide to the White Route here:
Glendalough Spinc Walk: Spinc and Glenealo Valley Hike / White Route
Is the Miners’ Road Walk Difficult?
No, the Miners’ Road Walk is not difficult.
It is one of the easier walks in Glendalough. The route is mostly flat, well marked, and simple to follow.
There are no major climbs if you walk only as far as the Miners’ Village and return the same way.
This makes it a good option for beginners, families, and casual walkers. It is also a good choice if you want beautiful Glendalough scenery without committing to the longer and harder Spinc hike.
That said, it is longer than the Green Road Walk, so you still need to be comfortable walking around 5 km.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially if the ground is wet.
Is the Miners’ Road Walk Suitable for Families?
Yes, the Miners’ Road Walk is a good family walk.
The trail is wide, easy to follow, and mostly flat. There is also plenty to keep children interested along the way, including the lake, the wooden bridge over the Glenealo River, the forest, the mountain views, and the old Miners’ Village.
For younger children, the full distance may feel a little long, so allow extra time and bring snacks.
If you are visiting with very young kids, you could always walk part of the route and turn back whenever needed.
Is the Miners’ Road Walk Buggy Friendly?
The Miners’ Road Walk is partly buggy friendly, but I would not describe the full route as ideal for all buggies.
The start of the trail is quite good, with a wide road and mostly flat surface. However, the surface can become rougher in places as you get closer to the Miners’ Village.
A sturdy outdoor buggy would be better than a small city stroller.
If you have a buggy and just want a short scenic walk beside the lake, the first section of the Miners’ Road can still be a lovely option.
For a more buggy-friendly Glendalough walk, the Green Road Walk may be a better choice.
Miners’ Road Walk vs Green Road Walk
The Miners’ Road Walk and the Green Road Walk both start from the Upper Lake area, but they are quite different walks.
The Green Road Walk is shorter, easier, and more sheltered. It is a lovely woodland and boardwalk trail, ideal for a relaxed stroll.
The Miners’ Road Walk is longer and more dramatic. It follows the Upper Lake into the valley and gives you better views of the Spinc cliffs, the mountains, and the old mining ruins.
If you want the easiest and shortest option, choose the Green Road Walk.
If you want a slightly longer walk with more dramatic scenery and a clear destination, choose the Miners’ Road Walk.
Both are excellent easy walks in Glendalough, and if you have enough time, you could even do both on the same visit.
You can read my full Green Road guide here:
What to Wear on the Miners’ Road Walk
You do not need full hiking gear for the Miners’ Road Walk in good weather, but you should still dress properly for the outdoors.
I recommend wearing:
- Comfortable walking shoes or hiking runners
- A rain jacket
- A warm layer outside summer
- Comfortable walking clothes
Glendalough is in Wicklow Mountains National Park, and the weather can change quickly. Even on a dry day, it is a good idea to bring a light rain jacket.
In winter or after heavy rain, the path can be wet in places, so waterproof footwear is useful.
What to Bring
For this walk, I recommend bringing:
- Water
- Snacks
- Phone or camera
- Rain jacket
- A warm layer
- Dog lead if bringing a dog
- Card or cash for parking
The walk is not long or difficult, but it is always better to be prepared, especially if you are walking with children.
Tips Before You Go
Start from the Upper Lake car park for the easiest access to the trail.
Arrive early at weekends and on bank holiday weekends, as the car park can get very busy.
The parking fee is €5.
Follow the Purple Route signs for the Miners’ Road Walk.
After crossing the wooden bridge over the Glenealo River, veer left and follow the wide road.
On the way to the Miners’ Village, the lake should be on your left-hand side.
On the way back, the lake should be on your right-hand side.
Turn back at the Miners’ Village if you want to keep the walk easy.
Only continue up the zig-zags towards the Spinc if you are prepared for a much harder hike.
Nearby Walks in Glendalough
If you want to explore more of Glendalough, there are several other walks nearby.
Glendalough Green Road Walk
The Green Road Walk is a short and easy woodland loop starting from the same Upper Lake area. It is one of the best gentle walks in Glendalough and is ideal for families, beginners, and anyone looking for a peaceful stroll.
Read my Glendalough Green Road Walk guide
Glendalough Spinc Walk
The Spinc Walk is a much harder hike, but it gives you some of the best views in Wicklow. You can connect to it from the Miners’ Village by climbing the steep zig-zag path.
Read my Glendalough Spinc Walk guide
Easy Hikes Near Dublin
If you are looking for more beginner-friendly walks close to Dublin, I have a full guide to easy hikes and walks that are suitable for casual walkers.
Read my Easy Hikes Near Dublin guide
FAQs About the Glendalough Miners’ Road Walk
How long is the Glendalough Miners’ Road Walk?
The Glendalough Miners’ Road Walk is around 5 km in total. The walk to the Miners’ Village is about 2.5 km each way.
How long does the Miners’ Road Walk take?
The walk takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes, but I would allow a bit longer if you want to stop for photos or spend time exploring the Miners’ Village.
Where does the Miners’ Road Walk start?
The Miners’ Road Walk starts at the Upper Lake car park in Glendalough. This is the same general starting area as the Green Road Walk.
How much is parking at the Upper Lake car park?
Parking at the Upper Lake car park costs €5.
Is the Upper Lake car park busy?
Yes, the Upper Lake car park can get very busy at weekends, on bank holiday weekends, and during good weather. From my own experience, it is best to arrive early.
Is the Miners’ Road Walk easy?
Yes, the Miners’ Road Walk is easy. It is mostly flat, well marked, and simple to follow. It is suitable for beginners and casual walkers.
Is the Miners’ Road Walk a loop?
No, the Miners’ Road Walk is not a loop. It is a linear out-and-back walk. You walk to the Miners’ Village and return the same way.
Which side is the lake on during the Miners’ Road Walk?
On the way to the Miners’ Village, Glendalough Upper Lake is on your left-hand side. On the way back to the car park, the lake is on your right-hand side.
Can you walk from the Miners’ Village to the Spinc?
Yes, you can continue from the Miners’ Village and climb the zig-zag path towards the Spinc. However, this turns the walk into a much harder hike and connects with the White Route / Spinc and Glenealo Valley Walk.
Is the Miners’ Road Walk suitable for children?
Yes, the walk is suitable for children who are comfortable walking around 5 km. The route is easy to follow and has plenty of interesting scenery along the way.
Is the Miners’ Road Walk buggy friendly?
It is partly buggy friendly, especially near the start, but the full route to the Miners’ Village may not be suitable for all buggies. A sturdy outdoor buggy is best.
Can dogs go on the Miners’ Road Walk?
Yes, dogs can go on the Miners’ Road Walk, but they should be kept on a lead.
Is the Miners’ Village worth visiting?
Yes, the Miners’ Village is worth visiting. It gives the walk a clear destination and adds history and character to the route.
What is the difference between the Purple Route and the White Route?
The Purple Route is the easy Miners’ Road Walk to the Miners’ Village. The White Route is the longer and more difficult Spinc and Glenealo Valley Walk.
Should I do the Green Road Walk or the Miners’ Road Walk?
Choose the Green Road Walk if you want a shorter and easier woodland loop. Choose the Miners’ Road Walk if you want a longer but still easy walk with lake views, woodland, mountain scenery, and the Miners’ Village.
Final Thoughts: Is the Miners’ Road Walk Worth It?
The Glendalough Miners’ Road Walk is absolutely worth doing.
It is easy, scenic, and gives you a great mix of lake views, forest, mountain scenery, and history. The trail is simple to follow, and the walk to the Miners’ Village gives you a clear destination without requiring a difficult climb.
For me, this is one of the best easy walks in Glendalough.
It is more dramatic than the Green Road Walk, but much easier than the full Spinc hike. That makes it a perfect middle option if you want a beautiful Glendalough walk without taking on a strenuous mountain route.
If you are visiting Glendalough and want an easy walk with big scenery, the Purple Route to the Miners’ Village is a brilliant choice.
