Explore & learn about a fragment of temperate rainforest in a secluded glen, connect with others, swim in a river

Explore & learn about a fragment of temperate rainforest in a secluded glen, connect with others, swim in a river

Announcing the third in the new series of Off The Beaten hikes, exploring steep and secluded river valleys in County Wicklow- the locations of current (or former) fragments of temperate Irish rainforest in the landscape.

Trekking through this steep valley offers a feast for the senses- where lush ferns, a richness of vegetation, and the roar of the Dargle below can transport you to a different time & place.

Search for and identify the signatures that make this amazing valley a prime example of temperate (Celtic) rainforest. There's a chance we'll see some iconic Irish wildlife- from dippers to buzzards.

The hike also offers an opportunity to connect with others, have really good conversations and laughs, and take a dip in the Dargle River.

🛑 Please note: This isn't your typical hike- it starts off easy but as the name implies, we’ll be venturing off the beaten track where the terrain will become quite rugged and tricky at times. We'll be scrambling up & down slopes, often clambering through dense vegetation and around rocks & boulders. So please bear that in mind if you want to sign up! 🙂

What to bring

🥾 Good footwear, ideally hiking boots or trail runners

🧥 Waterproof jacket (and trousers if possible)

🚰 Water

🥪 Snacks/lunch

🥽 Swim gear (optional)

All the details

🗓️ When: Saturday 19th September 2026 at 09:45am

📌 Where: Enniskerry Village Square

🅿️ Parking: Available in the village or in the Bog Meadow car park

🚗 If you need a lift or can offer a car pool, please let me know!

🚌 The 44 bus goes through Enniskerry village

⏰ Duration: 4-5 hours

🥾 Difficulty: Ranging from 🥾 to 🥾🥾🥾🥾

Description supplied by the event organiser.