Covering path, forest road and wooden bridges within a remote, steep valley, the Glenbarrow - Old Mill Loop takes 2.4 hours to complete. This strenuous trail’s terrain can be rough in parts and sometimes wet underfoot.
Just some of the trail’s highlights include the pretty banks of the spectacular River Barrow, a three-tiered waterfall known as the Clamp Hole, the ruins of an old water mill and broadleaf woodlands.
The loop returns via the side of a mountain through lush conifer woodland and boasts views over Counties Laois and Offaly and towards Croghan Hill - the remains of an extinct volcano that rises from the Bog of Allen. You’ll also find the Ridge of Capard viewing point with its stunning panoramic view of the surrounding countryside.
Afterwards, drop in to one of nearby Clonaslee’s friendly village pubs for a bite to eat.
- Watch out for the ruins of Gallagher's Mill, after which the loop is named. You’ll spot the old millstone still sitting at the water's edge.
- This route also overlaps with the much longer Slieve Bloom Way, should you wish to take on a leg of that too.
