Glendalough Spinc Walk 2026: White Route Guide
The Glendalough Spinc Walk, also known as the Spinc and Glenealo Valley Walk or the White Route, is one of the most spectacular hikes in Wicklow Mountains National Park. This strenuous loop walk brings you high above Glendalough Upper Lake, across the famous Spinc ridge, down through the wild Glenealo Valley, past the old Miner’s Village, and back along the lakeshore.
The route is around 9.5 km long and takes roughly 3 hours 15 minutes to 3.5 hours, depending on your pace, photo stops, and where you start. It is a proper hillwalk, with steep climbing, exposed sections, rocky ground, and mountain weather to consider.
Many hikers choose to walk the loop clockwise, climbing first through the woodland beside Poulanass Waterfall before reaching the Spinc viewpoint. This is the quickest way to get the big views over Glendalough Valley, but it also means tackling the steepest climb near the start of the hike.
The trail has changed in recent years. The old narrow boardwalk and long stepped section up towards the Spinc has been upgraded in places with stone steps and gravel trail, while sections of boardwalk still remain on the western part of the route. The climb is still steep and challenging, but the improved path makes this classic Wicklow walk feel more sustainable and better able to cope with the number of hikers who come here.
With its lakes, forest, waterfall, mountain views, wildlife, mining history, and panoramic ridge walk, the Glendalough Spinc Walk is easily one of the best hikes near Dublin.
Glendalough Spinc Walk Snapshot
| Hike Distance | 10 km |
| Difficulty | Difficult |
| Duration | 3.5 hours |
| Total Ascent | 447 m |
| Trail Type | Loop |
| Dogs | Allowed in leash |
| Hike Trail Map | Trail Map |
| Dublin Drive | 60 minutes |
| Driving Directions | Driving Direction |
| Beauty | Lakes, River, Waterfall, Forest, Valley, Old mining village, Monastic site, Mountain, Panoramic view |
2026 Trail Update: The Spinc Trail Has Changed
If you have walked the Spinc before, you may remember the long climb on wooden steps through the forest. That section has now changed.
The Spinc trail upgrade works have been completed, and the White Route, Red Route, and Blue Route are open without a detour. The upgraded route now includes stone steps and gravel trail in places, replacing parts of the old narrow boardwalk. Some boardwalk still remains, especially on the western part of the trail.
Even with the upgrades, this is still a strenuous hillwalk. Wear proper hiking footwear, bring rain gear, and expect wet, windy, or slippery conditions at any time of year.
Why Hike the Glendalough Spinc Walk?
There are nine marked walking trails around Glendalough, but the White Route is the one that gives you the full mountain experience.
The walk starts in one of Ireland’s most beautiful valleys, passes through oak woodland and waterfall scenery, climbs high above the Upper Lake, follows the Spinc ridge, descends into the Glenealo Valley, and finishes by the ruins of the old mining village. It is a complete Wicklow day hike.
The views from the Spinc are the main reason most people come here. From the ridge, you look down over the Upper Lake, the Lower Lake, the Glendalough Valley, the surrounding Wicklow Mountains, and the woodland far below. On a clear day, it is one of the finest viewpoints in Wicklow.
This is not a casual lakeside stroll, though. The climb is steep, the descent into Glenealo Valley is rocky, and the weather can change quickly. If you are looking for a gentle walk, choose one of the shorter Glendalough trails. If you want a proper hillwalk with unforgettable views, the Spinc and Glenealo Valley Walk is hard to beat.
Glendalough Spin Hike: How to get there
Glendalough is in County Wicklow, about one hour south of Dublin by car. It is one of the most popular day trips from Dublin, and for good reason. The valley combines mountain scenery, lakes, woodland, wildlife, monastic history, and excellent walking trails in one place.
The name Glendalough comes from the Irish Gleann Dá Loch, meaning “valley of the two lakes”. The two lakes are the Lower Lake and Upper Lake, and the Spinc Walk brings you high above both.
Glendalough by Bus
You can travel from Dublin to Glendalough using the St Kevin’s Bus Service.
The bus usually departs from St Stephen’s Green North, opposite Stephen Court, and travels to Glendalough via County Wicklow. The journey takes around 1 hour 20 minutes, depending on traffic and stops.
At the time of writing, the Dublin to Glendalough fare is listed as €23 return or €14 single. Always check the latest timetable and fare before travelling, as times and prices may change.
Website: glendaloughbus.com
Telephone: +353 (0)1 281 8119
Email: info@glendaloughbus.com
If you are relying on the bus, keep an eye on your timing. The White Route is a strenuous walk, and you will also want time for breaks, photos, and possibly a quick look around the Monastic Site.
Glendalough by Car
From Dublin, take the M50 southbound, then join the M11/N11 towards Wexford. After Kilmacanogue, take the exit for Roundwood and Glendalough and follow the R755 through the Wicklow Mountains.
The drive is beautiful, especially as the road climbs between the Great Sugar Loaf and Little Sugar Loaf before continuing through Roundwood, Annamoe, Laragh, and finally into Glendalough.
There are two main parking options for this hike.
Lower Lake Car Park
The Lower Lake Car Park is beside the Glendalough Visitor Centre and the Monastic Site. This is a great option if you want to include the round tower, old churches, graveyard, and Lower Lake boardwalk as part of your day.
Starting here adds a little distance to the walk, but it gives you the full Glendalough experience.
Upper Lake Car Park
The Upper Lake Car Park is closer to the start of the Spinc trail and is the most convenient option for the White Route. It is located beside the Upper Lake, close to the trailhead, toilets, and food options during busy periods.
Cost is 5 euro per car at the Upper Lake Car Park. This car park can fill quickly on sunny weekends, bank holidays, and summer days, so arrive early if you can.
Starting the Walk from the Lower Lake
If you begin at the Lower Lake Car Park, start by walking through the Glendalough Monastic Site. This early Christian settlement was founded by St Kevin in the 6th century and is one of the most atmospheric historic sites in Ireland.
The round tower is the most striking feature. It stands around 30 metres tall and was built almost 1,000 years ago. Take a few minutes to wander through the ruins, graveyard, stone churches, and old pathways before continuing towards the lakes.
From the Monastic Site, cross the small bridge and follow the path along the Lower Lake. This is an easy and scenic warm-up before the harder part of the hike begins.
Continue towards the Upper Lake area, where you will pick up the marked White Route.
Which Direction Should You Walk the Spinc Loop?
The White Route can be walked in either direction, but most hikers walk it clockwise.
Clockwise
Walking clockwise means you climb steeply beside Poulanass Waterfall first, reach the Spinc viewpoint early, then continue along the ridge before descending through Glenealo Valley and returning by the Miner’s Village.
This is the most popular direction because the views come early and the descent through Glenealo Valley feels more natural. The downside is that the climb is tough from the beginning.
Anti-clockwise
Walking anti-clockwise means you start with the flatter lakeshore section, pass the Miner’s Village, climb gradually into Glenealo Valley, and reach the Spinc ridge later in the walk.
This can feel easier at first, but it means saving the high ground and exposed sections for later. It also means descending the steep Poulanass side, which some hikers may find hard on the knees.
For most people, I recommend walking the route clockwise, especially if it is your first time doing the Spinc.
Glendalough Spinc Walk Route Description
1. Upper Lake to Poulanass Waterfall
From the Upper Lake area, follow the signs for Poulanass Waterfall and the White Route. The path leads into woodland and quickly brings you to one of the loveliest small waterfalls in Wicklow.
Poulanass Waterfall is not huge, but it is a beautiful place to stop before the climb begins. The water tumbles through oak woodland, with mossy rocks, ferns, and a cool shaded atmosphere that feels very different from the open mountain sections ahead.
Continue uphill, take the right turn following the white arrows.
2. The Climb Towards the Spinc
After Poulanass Waterfall, the route begins the climb towards the Spinc. This section has changed recently. The famous — or infamous — long line of wooden steps through the trees is gone, and the climb now follows a more gradual zig-zag gravel path across the open hillside.
The new trail feels less direct than the old steps, but it makes the ascent steadier and easier to pace. It is still a proper climb, so take your time, follow the white arrows, and use the bends in the path as natural places to pause and catch your breath.
Because this section is now more open, you may start to get glimpses across Glendalough earlier than before. In wet weather, the gravel and stone sections can still be slippery, and in colder months there may be ice higher up.
As you gain height, the views begin to open out behind you. Soon, you reach the first big viewpoint over Glendalough Upper Lake and the valley below.
3. The Spinc Viewpoint
The moment you step out onto the open slope above the valley, the whole walk changes.
Below you, Glendalough Upper Lake stretches through the valley, with the Lower Lake beyond it and forested slopes rising on either side. The car park and lakeshore look tiny from up here, and the Wicklow Mountains roll away in the distance.
This is the classic Spinc view and one of the most photographed viewpoints in Wicklow. It is a perfect place to stop, take photos, drink some water, and enjoy the reward for the climb.
The name Spinc comes from the Irish An Spinc, meaning “pointed hill”. From this high ground, it is easy to understand why the route is so popular.
Take care near the edges and stay on the marked path. The ground is fragile, and the steep slopes above the lake are not a place to wander off trail.
4. Along the Spinc Ridge
From the viewpoint, continue west along the Spinc ridge, following the white arrows.
This is the most spectacular section of the walk. The trail stays high above the Upper Lake, giving you repeated views down into the valley. Depending on the weather, the lake can look dark and dramatic, bright blue, or silver under cloud.
The surface varies along this section. Some parts use upgraded stone and gravel trail, while new upgraded boardwalk still remains in places further west. The route crosses open mountain habitat, including heath and blanket bog, so it is important to stay on the trail to protect the landscape.
Keep an eye out for wildlife. Deer are often seen in the Glenealo Valley, and you may also spot feral goats, ravens, kestrels, or peregrine falcons around the cliffs and open slopes.
This section can be exposed to wind and rain, even when conditions feel calm down by the lake. Bring an extra layer and waterproof jacket, even on a decent day.
5. Descent into Glenealo Valley
After following the high ground, the route begins to turn away from the lake and descend towards the Glenealo Valley.
The landscape changes again here. The wide views remain, but the route starts to feel wilder and more remote. You descend towards the Glenealo River, surrounded by rough mountain slopes, rocky ground, and open valley scenery.
You will eventually reach a bridge over the Glenealo River. This is another great place to pause. Looking back, you can see the high ground you have just crossed. Looking down the valley, the route continues towards the old mining area and the Upper Lake.
The descent from here is rough and rocky. Watch your footing, especially after rain. This is one of the main reasons I recommend hiking boots rather than runners for the Spinc Walk.
6. Glenealo Valley to the Miner’s Village
The path continues downhill beside the Glenealo River, which tumbles through the valley in a series of cascades and rocky channels.
This part of the trail feels completely different from the woodland climb and the open ridge. It is quieter, rougher, and more rugged. On a misty day, the valley can feel very atmospheric.
As you get lower, the old mining landscape begins to appear. The Glendalough and Glendasan valleys were once important mining areas, with lead, zinc, and silver mined here for many years. Mining in the area dates back to the late 18th century and continued until the 20th century.
The ruins around the Miner’s Village are a reminder that this beautiful valley was once a hard-working industrial landscape. Take care around the old structures and do not climb on the ruins.
7. Miner’s Village to Upper Lake
From the Miner’s Village, the route becomes easier underfoot. Follow the wide track along the north side of Glendalough Upper Lake.
After the rocky descent through Glenealo Valley, this final lakeside section feels relaxed and scenic. The cliffs and slopes you walked above earlier now rise high on the opposite side of the lake, giving you a great sense of the full loop you have completed.
The track leads back towards the Upper Lake Car Park. If you started from the Lower Lake, continue along the marked path back through the valley, with the option of taking the boardwalk near the Lower Lake for a different finish.
Glendalough Mining History
The ruins at the Miner’s Village are one of the most interesting features of the White Route.
Mining in Glendalough and the neighbouring Glendasan Valley began in the 1790s. Lead, zinc, and silver were mined in the area, and at the height of production, the mines provided work for many local people. Mining continued in the Glendalough area until 1957.
Today, the remains of buildings, tracks, spoil heaps, and old mining features add a fascinating layer of history to the walk. It is worth taking a little time here before finishing the loop back along the lake.
What to Wear and Bring
The Spinc and Glenealo Valley Walk is a marked trail, but it is still a mountain hike. Conditions can change quickly, and parts of the route are exposed, steep, rocky, and slippery.
I recommend bringing:
- Hiking boots with good grip
- Waterproof jacket
- Warm layer
- Water
- Snacks or lunch
- Phone with battery
- Map or downloaded route
- Hat and gloves in colder months
- Walking poles if you like extra support on descents
Avoid doing this walk in poor visibility, high winds, icy conditions, or stormy weather unless you have the right experience and equipment.
Is the Glendalough Spinc Walk Difficult?
Yes, the White Route is difficult compared with many other walks near Dublin.
It is not technically complicated, and the route is well marked, but the climb is steep, the distance is significant, and the descent through Glenealo Valley is rocky. The exposed sections along the Spinc can also feel challenging in bad weather.
If you are reasonably fit and used to hiking, you should be fine if you take your time. If you are new to hiking, consider trying an easier Glendalough route first, such as the Green Road Walk, Miners’ Road Walk, or Poulanass and St Kevin’s Cell route.
Can You Bring Dogs on the Spinc Walk?
Dogs are allowed on the route, but they must be kept on a lead.
This is especially important because the trail passes through sensitive mountain habitat and areas where deer, birds, sheep, and other wildlife may be present. The route is also steep and rocky in places, so make sure your dog is fit enough for the walk and bring water for them too.
Best Time to Hike the Spinc
The Spinc Walk can be done year-round, but the best conditions are usually from spring to autumn.
Spring
Spring is a lovely time to visit, with fresh green woodland, active waterfalls, and fewer crowds than peak summer.
Summer
Summer gives you the longest daylight and the best chance of clear views, but Glendalough can be very busy. Start early if you want parking and a quieter trail.
Autumn
Autumn is one of the most beautiful times to hike the Spinc. The woodland colours around the lakes can be stunning, and the valley often has a dramatic atmosphere.
Winter
Winter can be beautiful but requires more care. Ice, wind, rain, and low cloud can make the high sections more difficult. Check the forecast carefully and avoid the route in unsafe conditions.
Tips for Hiking the Glendalough Spinc Walk
Start early if you are hiking at the weekend or during holidays. Glendalough is one of the busiest walking destinations in Ireland, and parking can fill quickly.
Walk clockwise if it is your first time doing the route. This gets the main climb done early and gives you the famous Spinc views near the start.
Bring proper footwear. The upgraded trail is a big improvement, but this is still a hillwalk with rocky and uneven sections.
Stay on the marked trail. The mountain habitat around the Spinc is fragile, and shortcuts damage the ground.
Bring layers. It can feel warm in the forest and cold on the ridge.
Allow time for photos. The views are too good to rush.
Visit the Monastic Site if you have time. It is one of the highlights of Glendalough and makes the day feel even more complete.
Nearby Walks in Glendalough
If the White Route feels too long or difficult, there are several easier trails in Glendalough.
The Green Road Walk is a gentle woodland and lakeside trail.
The Miners’ Road Walk follows the Upper Lake towards the old mining area without climbing onto the Spinc.
The Poulanass Waterfall Walk is a shorter option that still gives you woodland and waterfall scenery.
The Spinc Short Route, marked with blue arrows, gives a shorter version of the Spinc experience, though it is still a steep hillwalk.
Final Thoughts on the Glendalough Spinc Walk
The Glendalough Spinc Walk is a truly special hike. It has everything you could want from a Wicklow Mountains day out: lakes, forest, waterfall, mountain views, wildlife, mining history, and one of the best viewpoints in Ireland.
It is a challenging walk, and you should treat it as a proper hillwalk rather than a casual stroll. But if you are prepared for the climb and the rocky descent, the reward is unforgettable.
For me, the White Route remains one of the best hikes near Dublin and one of the finest ways to experience Glendalough.
If you have done the Spinc and Glenealo Valley Walk, I’d love to hear what you thought of it. Leave a comment or review below and share your experience with other hikers.
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Such a lovely way to pass 3.10 hours. Just completed the walk today . Any reasonably fit person should have no trouble . I’m 68 and really enjoyed the experience. Good hiking boots make things more enjoyable as there are lots of rocks to negotiate.
