The Glenbarrow Eco walk is a novel walk that has been developed in association with local communities and its aim is to inform people about the environment while enjoying their walk.

The Eco walk consists of 10 stops which are identified by sequential numbers.

Stop 1: In the bed of the River Barrow - the Old Red Sandstone and the end of the Ice Age

Stop 2: Waterfalls on the Barrow

Stop 3: Bridge Across the Barrow Gorge

Stop 4: The Glenbarrow Homestead

Stop 5: The Ridge of Capard

Stop 6: Wild fruit and butterflies

Stop 7: Capard Wood

Stop 8: The Quarry: a window into a vanished world

Stop 9: Offaly’s Volcano: the view to Croghan Hill

Stop 10: Birchwood

Directions to Trailhead:

The Glenbarrow Eco walk starts in the car park and follows the same path as the other walks along the river. The walk heads up the valley at the last footbridge onto the ridge of Capard passing the Metal Man. The Ridge of Capard offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and is well worth a visit. As well as this the stops along the way are very informative on environmental and cultural/historic matters.

Glenbarrow Loop Walks

Glenbarrow is one of the most scenic parts of the Slieve Bloom area with its waterfalls and steep valley. The area is very remote and offers the visitor peace and tranquillity. The only sounds to be heard are the crash of the waterfalls and the fast flowing Barrow. The trails all start at the car park and all follow the river for the first section. Glenbarrow is a unique forest setting with a beautiful riverside walk. Therefore the terrain can be rough in parts and sometimes wet underfoot so be prepared with appropriate clothing and footwear.