5 Best Hikes in County Wicklow, Ireland - favourite trails to get you out in nature

With great weather and spring finally arriving in Ireland, there’s no better time to dust off your boots and hit the trails. Wicklow is bursting into life again – wildflowers are starting to bloom, birds are singing louder than ever, and the longer days mean more time to explore. Whether you’re craving a forest stroll or a full-day mountain adventure, County Wicklow has a hike for every kind of walker.

Here are five of my favourite hikes in Wicklow – tried, tested, and guaranteed to leave you with rosy cheeks and a full heart.

1. The Spinc – Glendalough’s Iconic Ridge Walk

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: ~9.5 km (loop)

Time: 3–4 hours

This is Wicklow’s most iconic hike – and one that never gets old. The Spinc starts beside the Upper Lake at Glendalough and takes you on a steady climb through oak and pine forest before opening out onto the wooden boardwalk along the cliff edge. The view down over the twin lakes of Glendalough is simply unforgettable.

The trail loops around via open heathland and a gentle descent along the Glenealo River, with mountain goats often seen grazing on the hillside. Perfect for walkers looking for a bit of a workout with panoramic views every step of the way.

2. Crone Woods to Maulin – Forest Calm and Mountain Air

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: ~6–7 km return

Time: 2–3 hours

This hike begins in the shelter of Crone Woods, just a short drive from Enniskerry, where mossy forest paths wind their way upwards through a mix of spruce and beech trees. As you climb, glimpses of Powerscourt Waterfall flash through the trees, and the sound of birdsong follows you all the way to the summit of Maulin at 570m.

From the top, you’re treated to a wide-open view across Glencree Valley, the Sugarloaf, and even the coast on a clear day. It’s the kind of trail where you can slow down, breathe deep, and feel completely in tune with the landscape around you.

3. Trooperstown Hill – Easygoing with Endless Views

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Distance: ~4–5 km

Time: 1.5–2 hours

Looking for a shorter hike that still delivers big views? Trooperstown Hill is your go-to. Just a stone’s throw from the village of Laragh, this hill rises gently above the valley and rewards even a short climb with sweeping views over Glendalough, the Avonmore River, and the Wicklow Mountains stretching into the distance.

The terrain is grassy and open, with blooming gorse in spring and plenty of space to sit, snack, and watch the clouds roll by. It’s a great intro hike for beginners or those who want a slower pace – and it's also where we host our slow hiking group walks for those who want to take their time and soak it all in.

4. Lugnaquilla – Wicklow’s Highest and Wildest

Difficulty: Hard

Distance: ~14–16 km return (via Glenmalure or Fraughan Rock Glen)

Time: 5–7 hours

Lugnaquilla (or “Lug” to regulars) is a serious hike and a rite of passage for many Irish walkers. As the highest peak in Leinster at 925m, it's not just about the height – it’s the remoteness, the wild open slopes, and the ever-changing weather that make this one a true adventure.

There are several routes up, but the Fraughan Rock Glen trail from Glenmalure is a popular and scenic one, with a steep climb through a glacial valley and a dramatic waterfall en route. From the summit, if the clouds behave, you can see as far as the Mournes to the north and the Blackstairs to the south.

This is one for experienced hikers – good gear, a map, and navigation skills are essential.

5. Tonelagee and Lough Ouler – The Heart of the Wicklow Mountains

Difficulty: Moderate to Hard

Distance: ~7–9 km (depending on route)

Time: 3–4 hours

This hike is pure magic. Tonelagee, meaning “Backside to the Wind” in Irish, is the third highest peak in Wicklow at 817m – but what makes it truly memorable is what lies below: Lough Ouler, the naturally heart-shaped lake tucked into a corrie beneath the mountain.

The route isn’t marked, so it’s best for confident walkers with basic navigation skills. One popular approach is from the Wicklow Gap, with a steady climb across open bog and heath. Once you crest the summit ridge, the view of Lough Ouler appears suddenly – and it’ll stop you in your tracks.

It’s a quieter trail, perfect for when you want to escape the crowds and feel the wildness of the hills all around you. Bring a flask, a camera, and take your time – this one’s good for the soul.

Ready to Hit the Trails?

Whether you’re looking for a challenge or a calming woodland wander, these five hikes offer some of the best that Wicklow has to offer. Just remember to check the weather, wear proper footwear, and leave no trace – the wild places of Wicklow are beautiful because we care for them.

And if you'd rather not hike alone, we've got you. We’ve got a Mindful hike coming up in Crone Woods, perfect for slowing down and reconnecting with nature, as well as a gentle, slow-paced group walk in Trooperstown, where the focus is on community, and enjoying the journey at your own pace. Check out our upcoming hikes here and come join us!