Overview
Lough Dan (Irish: Loch Dáin) is a striking boomerang‑shaped ribbon lake set deep within the Wicklow Mountains National Park. The lake lies at the foot of Luggala and Knocknacloghoge, fed by the Cloghoge and Inchavore rivers and drained by the River Avonmore. Most of the shoreline is bordered by private land, but the north‑western corner belongs to the national park and is open to the public. Its dark, reflective waters are framed by conifer forests, bogs and rugged peaks, making it a favourite spot for photographers, hikers and anyone seeking a quiet escape from the more‑trodden Glendalough area.
History & Background
While Lough Dan has long been part of the Guinness Estate at Luggala, it only recently regained public access after a period of closure in the early 2020s. The closure was prompted by anti‑social behaviour at the nearby scout campsite, which led the estate owners to restrict entry. In 2024 the access points were reopened, and three official routes now guide visitors to the lake. The area also has a scouting heritage – the national Scouting Ireland campsite sits beside the lake, and the site hosted the Lough Dan ‘97 jamboree.
What to See & Do
Walking and Hiking
Three main approaches lead to the lake:
- Old Military Road route – Starting from the Sally Gap car park, this 5 km walk follows a historic gravel track, passes the Inchavore River and reaches the pebble beach known locally as Coon Beach. The route takes about three hours round‑trip and includes a small, easy‑to‑miss left‑hand turn near three distinctive boulders.
- Lough Dan House to Coon Beach – A shorter, 2 km downhill walk from the private Lough Dan House (near the scout centre). The path is straightforward but can be boggy after rain; dogs must be on a leash and camping is prohibited.
- Ballinastoe Car Park via Luggala Estate – From the large Ballinastoe car park, walkers cross a small gate onto the Luggala Estate, follow a muddy stone‑wall path and arrive at the lake’s northern shore. Dogs are not allowed on this private‑estate section.
Scenic Highlights
- Coon Beach – A small, sandy stretch perfect for a quiet picnic or a brief dip (water is cold). The beach is framed by the lake’s dark waters and surrounding conifers.
- Knocknacloghoge Summit – A 12 km loop from the Pier Gate on the Luggala Estate climbs to the summit (534 m) for panoramic views of Lough Dan and the surrounding peaks.
- Scarr and Kanturk Loop – A more demanding 20 km circuit that includes Scarr (641 m) and Kanturk (523 m), offering distant vistas of the lake from multiple angles.
Photography and Wildlife
The lake’s still surface mirrors the sky and mountains, creating dramatic sunrise and sunset shots. Birdwatchers may spot meadow‑pipits, skylarks and occasional raptors soaring above the ridges. Fishing is prohibited, preserving the lake’s natural tranquility.
Flora & Fauna
The surrounding conifer plantation is interspersed with native birch and oak, providing shelter for small mammals such as hares and the occasional red squirrel. In spring the ground‑cover bursts with heather and bilberry, while autumn brings a subtle turn of the conifer needles to a richer bronze hue. The open water and bog edges support aquatic insects that attract dragonflies and damselflies during the warmer months.
Seasonal Highlights
Access is year‑round, but conditions vary. Late spring to early autumn offers the longest daylight and the most reliable footing for the boggy sections. Winter can bring icy patches on the Old Military Road, so sturdy boots and caution are advised. After heavy rain the Luggala Estate path may become very muddy; a sturdy gait and waterproof footwear are recommended.
Practical Information
Getting There
- By car: The lake is about an hour’s drive north‑west of Dublin. Two main approaches are via the Sally Gap (Old Military Road) or the R759 from the N11, which leads to the Ballinastoe Car Park. There is no public transport to the trailheads.
- Car parks:
Location Opening Hours Notes Ballinastoe Car Park 09:00 – 17:30 Often fills quickly; alternative roadside parking available on R759 Old Military Road car park (near Inchavore River) Open daily Small, about 100 m from the river
Fees & Permissions
- Admission: Free of charge.
- Restrictions: The lake lies on private estate land; visitors must respect gate signs, keep dogs on leash where required, and avoid camping. Litter must be taken back; a bin bag is recommended.
- Dog policy: Allowed on leash on most public paths; prohibited on the Luggala Estate section accessed from Ballinastoe.
Safety and Navigation
- The main routes are marked with blue information signs near the lake entrance. The Old Military Road path includes a narrow, gravel stretch that can be slick when wet.
- GPS coordinates for the primary Old Military Road car park are 53.08957, -6.34952; the official park coordinates are 53.070029, -6.280980.
- Mobile signal can be patchy; a physical map or downloaded GPX file is advisable for longer loops such as the Knocknacloghoge or Scarr‑Kanturk circuits.
Nearby Attractions
- Sally Gap – A historic mountain pass offering sweeping views of Lough Dan, Lough Tay and Luggala Mountain.
- Glendalough – The famous monastic site lies a short drive away and makes an excellent day‑trip addition.
- Lough Bray – Another secluded lake visible from the Old Military Road, ideal for a quick photo stop.
- Ballinastoe MBT – Ireland’s premier mountain‑bike trail centre, located next to the Ballinastoe car park; the trailhead provides an alternative route for cyclists and walkers.
All information is current as of March 2024 and sourced from official tourism sites, local walking guides and the Wikipedia entry for Lough Dan.