When to walk the Wicklow Way (Marlay Park to Clonegal)

For most walkers, starting in late May to August gives the best conditions on the Wicklow Way. This is when you get long daylight, mild to warm afternoons, and ground that’s usually firmer on the open hills—still changeable, but with plenty of workable days.

The Wicklow Way (Slí Cualann Nua) sits under Atlantic skies: lots of cloud, regular light showers or drizzle, and short brighter breaks. Summer doesn’t mean dry, but it does mean easier temperatures and more time to make miles between Marlay Park and Clonegal.

Late May, June, July, and August — best for most walkers

• Long, bright days for unhurried upland stages and forest tracks.
• Mild to warm in valleys, pleasantly cool on tops; easy to manage layers.
• Showers pass through with brighter spells between; heavier bursts are usually brief.
• Underfoot is generally less sodden than spring or autumn, though boggy sections and boardwalks stay slick after rain.
• Practical notes: pack a light waterproof year‑round; carry midge repellent for calm woods and lake edges; expect busier weekends near Dublin.

April to mid‑May — cool, showery, workable if you don’t mind grey

Changeable and mostly cloudy with frequent light showers or drizzle. It’s comfortable for steady walking and quieter on the trail, but higher sections can feel raw and damp. Late May is when daylight and underfoot conditions start to improve.

September — a solid backup

Still mild with decent walking temperatures and some dry windows, but expect regular showers and the odd heavier band. Days are shorter than high summer, so plan earlier starts. Quieter than July and August.

October to March — for hardy, flexible itineraries

Cool to cold, often damp, and mostly cloudy. Frequent drizzle or light rain with occasional heavier bursts; sleet or wet snow is possible on higher ground. Trails are boggier and daylight is short. Rewarding on crisp spells, but bring warm layers, a reliable waterproof, and conservative daily plans.

Of course, while these recommendations provide a solid starting point, everyone's preferences and circumstances are unique. Our search tool allows you to customize your journey to align with your specific needs and preferences, ensuring the best possible experience on the trail.

Furthermore, if your plan differs from walking the standard stages from Marlay Park to Clonegal, then you can edit the Search Settings below accordingly.