The Miners' Way (Upper Lake Walk)
5.4 km · Flat elevation
About
The Miners' Way is a roughly 5.4km, largely flat walk along the shore of the Upper Lake to the old lead and zinc mine workings at the head of the valley, which operated on and off between 1825 and 1957. It is a gentler way to see the mining history that the Spinc's more strenuous route also passes through, following the lake at water level rather than climbing the cliff above it, and it is a good option for anyone who wants the industrial-history interest without the steep boardwalk climb.
Highlights
- ✓The ruins of the old lead and zinc mine workings, worked 1825-1957
- ✓A flat walk along the Upper Lake shore
- ✓The mining history without the Spinc's steep climb
Tips
- →Starts from the Upper Lake car park; allow about 80 minutes at an easy pace.
- →A good option if the Spinc's climb is not for you but you still want the mining history.
- →Keep to the marked path near the old workings; the ground can be unstable close to the ruins.
Best Season
More Walk Activities
The Spinc and Glenealo Valley Walk (White Route)
A 9.5km boardwalk-and-valley loop above the Upper Lake, climbing 380m through oak forest to a cliff-edge boardwalk and the ruined miners' village. About 3.5 hours.
The Green Road Walk (Lower Lake Loop)
A 3km, mostly flat loop from the monastic city to the Lower Lake shore on boardwalk, the easiest and most accessible walk at Glendalough.
Poulanass Waterfall Walk
A short, steady woodland climb beside the Poulanass River to a waterfall in the trees, shares its start with the Spinc but works well as a standalone half-hour.