Overview
The River Triogue (Irish: An Tríog) rises in the Cullenagh Hills south of Portlaoise and flows north‑south before joining the River Barrow at Clonterry, just north‑east of Mountmellick. Through the heart of Portlaoise the river is bordered by the Triogue Linear Park, a landscaped green corridor that offers riverside walking, cycling and a dedicated dog‑park.
History & Background
Historically a quiet tributary of the Barrow, the Triogue only appeared as a footnote on old maps. In the 21st century the river became central to Portlaoise’s Low‑Carbon Town ambition. In January 2018 the Irish government allocated almost €200 000 for outdoor recreation in Laois, with €99 500 earmarked for a new cycleway and footpaths along the Triogue. This funding birthed the Triogue Way, a paved greenway that links the Southern Circular Road to the People’s Park and forms part of the town’s Public Realm Strategy for 2040.
A further boost arrived in late 2024 when Laois County Council completed a larger, fully‑enclosed dog‑park at the western end of the linear park, providing separate zones for small and large dogs, water bowls and waste‑bag stations.
Flora & Fauna
The river’s clean waters attract a variety of wildlife. Kingfishers are a regular summer sight, darting over the surface to snatch minnows. Swallows and swifts often nest in the mature trees that line the banks, while dragonflies and damselflies add colour to the riparian habitat. The surrounding grassland supports butterflies such as the common blue and meadow brown.
What to See & Do
Triogue Linear Park & Dog Park
- Riverside lawns and mature trees create a tranquil oasis in the town centre.
- Dog Park – a secure, off‑lead area with separate sections, benches, water stations and waste‑bag dispensers.
- Interpretive signage explains the river’s ecology and the park’s role in sustainable travel.
- Bird‑watching – kingfishers and swallows are regular summer visitors.
Cycling & Walking the Triogue Way
- Fully surfaced, flat path suitable for road bikes, hybrids, families with push‑chairs and joggers.
- Begins at the Southern Circular Road beside the local primary schools, then weaves under Bridge Street, Church Street and the railway bridge before emerging near Green Mill Road.
- Connects seamlessly to the Barrow Way, a 120 km blueway that follows the River Barrow from Robertstown (Co. Kildare) to St Mullins (Co. Carlow).
Community & Leisure
- The park hosts outdoor yoga, pop‑up markets, seasonal art installations and provides ample space for picnics.
- Its central location makes it a popular meeting point for locals and visitors alike.
Connecting Trails & Nearby Attractions
The Triogue Way forms part of a wider network of greenways in the Midlands. From its western terminus you can join the Barrow Way for a longer riverside adventure, or head east into the Cullenagh Hills for hillwalking and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. A short walk north leads to the historic Portlaoise town centre, where you can explore heritage sites such as the 13th‑century St. John’s Church and the modern People’s Park.
Accessibility & Visitor Tips
- Year‑round access – the path is open all seasons and free of charge.
- Wheelchair friendly – the paved surface is suitable for wheelchair users and push‑chairs.
- Dog‑friendly – the off‑lead enclosure is free, but dogs must be kept on a lead outside the designated area.
- Parking – free parking is available at the People’s Park car park and at several roadside bays along the Southern Circular Road.
- Public transport – bus stops on Main Street are a short walk away; the site is also easily reached on foot from the town centre.
- Safety – the route is well‑lit after dark. Cyclists should keep to the designated lane and give way to pedestrians and dog owners.
Enjoy a leisurely riverside walk, a brisk cycle, or a playful dog‑run while soaking up the natural beauty of the River Triogue and its vibrant Linear Park.