Located near the village of Ashford, in County Wicklow, Devil's Glen is only about 1 hour and 20 minutes from Dublin. It's part of the Devil's Glen Forest Park, managed by Ireland's forestry service, Coillte.
GPS Coordinates: 📍 52.973733, -6.109024
Free parking is available at the trail entrance, with clear signage and maps.
Trail Overview: Devil's Glen Forest Walk
There are two main trails to explore:
- Waterfall Walk — 5 km (round trip), circular, easy to moderate. Great for families or casual hikers.
- Seamus Heaney Walk — A poetic trail named after the Nobel Prize-winning Irish poet, with quotes and verses placed along the path.
What you'll see on the way:
- Hidden waterfalls deep in the woods
- Wooden sculptures from the Sculpture in Woodland project
- Rustic bridges and towering trees
- Sounds of nature echoing all around
History & Folklore
The name Devil's Glen comes from local Irish folklore. Villagers once believed the haunting sounds from the gorge during storms were voices of wild spirits.
In the 19th century, the forest belonged to a noble estate and was used for hunting. Some trails still follow the original Victorian paths. In 2000, the area hosted the Sculpture in Woodland initiative, attracting artists from around the world to place nature-inspired sculptures along the trails.
Seamus Heaney, one of Ireland's most celebrated poets, often walked through Devil's Glen for inspiration. Today, you'll find plaques with his poetry hidden in the woods.
Devil's Glen in Film and TV
Although not as famous as Glendalough or Powerscourt, Devil's Glen has featured in nature documentaries and independent films, thanks to its cinematic light, dramatic trees, and ethereal atmosphere.
Visitor Tips
- Wear waterproof hiking boots (especially after rain)
- Bring water and snacks — there are no cafés or restrooms inside the park
- Dog- and child-friendly, but stay alert near the waterfalls
- Take your trash with you and respect nature
- Stick to marked paths to protect the forest ecosystem
Pro Tip: Arrive early in the morning to experience the misty forest light — when sunbeams break through the canopy, it feels like stepping into a fairytale.