Galtee Mountains Glen of Aherlow Forest Track

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.