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I was lucky enough to visit Wicklow Mountains National Park on a partly sunny day, and it did not disappoint. If you only have a few hours like I did, I recommend hiking the Poulanass Waterfall Trail, which I will tell you about now!

Wicklow Mountains National Park

This waterfall day hike is located in the breathtaking Wicklow Mountains National Park. The national park is located in County Wicklow, Ireland. It was established in 1991 and covers an area of over 85 square miles. The park is part of the larger Wicklow Mountains, known for their magnificence and biodiversity.

One of the most popular attractions within the park is the Glendalough Valley, known for its monastic settlement founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century. This is also where the scenic Poulanass Waterfall is located.

There is also a Lough Tay, which is also known as the Guinness Lake. You can walk around the lake while enjoying the views of the area. It is a popular spot for photography and offers picturesque views.

If you are driving, check out the Sally Gap. This mountain pass is known for its scenic drive and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a popular route for those exploring the Wicklow Mountains.

These are just a few things you can do on a day or weekend visit!

The Poulanass Waterfall Hike

Since we were on a day tour, we only had two hours to explore the Glendalough side of Wicklow Mountains National Park.

Fortunately, that was just enough time to trek the Poulanass Waterfall Hike and enjoy some fish and chips from the food stands on the way out.

The hike is 1.3 miles long, and it starts at the parking lot, which also has a few shops and food stands. From here, you will make your way through the Monastic Settlement.

This site features the remains of an early Irish Christian monastic settlement dating from the 6th century onwards.

Continue as you approach Lowes Lake, and be sure to make a stop at the boardwalk on your way down.

From here, you will start your hike up, with an elevation of 380 feet, just enough to get your heart pumping.

As you approach the Upper Lake, you will see the trail turn off for Poulanass Waterfall. Enjoy the hike up the dirt hill until you see the small waterfall that is surrounded by greenery.

The prettiest part of the hike was the way up; the green Ireland landscape took my breath away. The waterfall was just a bonus!

How To Get To Wicklow Mountains National Park

You have a few options if you are visiting from Dublin. We took a tour which left right from the main hotels in Dublin. This was a great option for those who are not renting a car, like me.

It is only an hour and a half drive from Dublin to Wicklow Mountains National Park, making it an easy road trip for those who do have a car. This would give you more time and freedom when exploring the National Park.

Visiting the Wicklow Mountains in Ireland is a thrilling day trip that you can easily take from Dublin!