Glenshelane
Overview
Glenshelane wood straddles two river glens, one a long glen through which the Glenshelane River flows, the other follows a section of where the Monavugga and Glenfalla Rivers converge a short distance upstream. All are tributaries of the mighty Blackwater. There is an extensive network of gently graded forest roads and trails for the walker to sample. All walks run beside the rivers and are serviced by five timber footbridges and one underpass under Lyre bridge that is worth exploring.
Things to do
Walk: There are four wonderful waymarked walking trails in Glenshelane. The Blue Trail (2 kms, 45 mins, easy, blue) is looped on a flat gradient adjacent to the river and is suitable for all ages. The Green Trail (3.5kms, 1.25 hrs, moderate, green) is also a loop that will take the walker out a little further along the river. The Red Trail (9.5 kms, 3.5 hrs, strenuous, red) is a long linear walk that takes you to the more remote parts of the forest, whilst the linear Grotto Walk (2.75 kms, 1.5 hrs, moderate, orange) takes in the Scout Centre, the underpass under Lyre Bridge and the Grotto at Mount Mellary.
Fish: Check locally regarding permits and licenses.
Explore nature: Birds such as dippers, herons and the grey wagtail frequent Glenshelane. Pine marten have also been spotted in the area.
Don’t miss our hidden gem
The Grotto trail in particular has many interesting features both man-made and natural.