Crone Woods
Overview
This wooded Glen is layered in history. Once part of the Powerscourt Estate, records show that as far back as the 13th century the steep sides of Crone were set aside as a Royal Hunting Park. It is easy to imgaine why as cover from vegetation and crags would provide good cover for animals. Indeed, fastforward to the 1798 rebellion when Crone was used as a hiding place for bands of rebels and insurgents. In response, the British Military built the Military Road with a barracks at the top of the valley to open up the area following the 1798 rising. In quieter times, the quality of the oak from this property was well recognised.
Car Park Opens:
7.00am April to September
8.00am October to March
Car Park Closes:
9.00pm April to September
5.00pm October to March
Things to do
Walk: There are three waymarked trails to explore from Crone. Exploration of the Maulin Mountain Trail (6km, 2.5 hours, strenuous) will reward the walker with magnificent views into Glencree and over the adjacent mountains and valleys. In the distance Dublin and Dublin Bay can be clearly seen.
A section of the long distance (132km) walking route, the Wicklow Way also passes through Crone. The route from here will guide you up to the viewpoint at Ride Rock from where there are stunning views over the Powersourt Waterfall (the highest in these islands) and the Great Sugarloaf before continuing on or returning to the car park.
There is also a mountain access route from Crone (2.6km, 55 mins, strenuous) that facilitates access out onto the Wicklow mountains.
The walking routes from Crone tend to be on the strenuous end of the scale, so please come prepared for the weather, terrain and fitness required.