
Poulanass Waterfall Walk
1.6 km · A steady initial climb, then level elevation
About
A short, steady climb through native oak woodland beside the Poulanass River to a waterfall tumbling through the trees, one of the quickest genuine payoffs in the valley for the effort involved. It shares its lower section with the start of the Spinc, so it is a natural add-on to the longer walk, but it also works as a standalone half-hour for anyone with limited time who still wants a proper woodland walk rather than just the lakeside loops.
Highlights
- ✓A genuine waterfall in native oak woodland
- ✓A short, achievable climb for a proper payoff
- ✓Shares its start with the longer Spinc route
Tips
- →A good choice if you want a short woodland walk with a real destination rather than just the lakeside loops.
- →The path is steady but has some incline; regular footwear is fine in dry conditions.
- →Combine with the Green Road for a fuller half-day without attempting the full Spinc.
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.

The Miners' Way (Upper Lake Walk)
A roughly 5.4km flat walk along the Upper Lake shore to the old lead and zinc mine workings, an easier alternative to the Spinc for the same mining history.