Galtee Mountains Glen of Aherlow Forest Track
Forestry roads to Ireland's highest inland summit
The Galtee Mountains hide Ireland’s most extensive forestry track network, climbing from the fertile Glen of Aherlow toward Galtymore’s summit plateau at 3,018 feet. These tracks were carved in the 1960s when Coillte planted massive spruce plantations across former common grazing land, but they follow much older paths used by copper miners who worked these hills until the 1850s. The route winds past abandoned mine shafts near Lyracappul, crosses mountain streams tumbling toward the Glen below, and opens onto high moorland where red deer roam among wind-sculpted trees.
Moderate difficulty requiring high clearance for rutted sections and stream crossings, though most tracks are well-maintained gravel. Some routes require forest access permits during logging operations – check with Coillte before departure. Best explored March through November when forestry restrictions are minimal. Mobile coverage is decent in the Glen but disappears on higher ground. Wild camping is possible on the plateau but respect private land boundaries. These tracks offer genuine mountain solitude just hours from Cork or Dublin, with sweeping views across Munster’s green heartland.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Dirt, Gravel |
| Features | Camping, High Altitude, Historic, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 12 mi / 19.3 km |
| Duration | Full day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 3018 ft |
| Best season | March-November |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance SUV |
| Nearest town | Tipperary, County Tipperary |
| Land manager | Coillte Teoranta |
| Permit required | Yes |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Official sources | coillte.ie |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Land Rover Defender or Hilux handle this, or do I need a lifted rig?
A stock high-clearance SUV is the minimum — think Defender, Hilux, or Patrol in standard trim. Lifted rigs are overkill here; what matters more is decent all-terrain rubber, since the forestry tracks can get greasy and rutted after rain.
When does the trail become impassable and is it driveable in winter?
Best season is March through November. Winter brings saturated ground, ice at higher elevations near the 3,000ft summit, and Coillte sometimes restricts forestry road access during logging or storm damage — check their site before heading out in December through February.
Do I need a permit to drive this, and is there a fee?
Yes, a permit is required as Coillte Teoranta manages the land. Contact Coillte directly at coillte.ie to confirm current access permissions and any associated fees before you show up at the gate.
What's the hardest section and what actually makes it technical?
The upper forestry tracks approaching the summit ridge are the crux — loose gravel over soft substrate, off-camber corners, and tight turns between tree lines with no room to recover if you slide. The water crossings lower in the valley are straightforward but can rise fast after heavy rain, so check them on the way in before committing to the full route.
Is there anywhere to top up fuel or water near the trailhead, and how far is Tipperary town?
Tipperary town is your last reliable stop for fuel and supplies — it's roughly 10–12km from the Glen of Aherlow start point. There's no fuel on the route, and cell service is spotty throughout, so download offline maps and carry more water than you think you need since the crossing water isn't treated.
Trail track
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