Trail Description
Walk through our scenic and award-winning village to the looped Forest Trail.
Blackwater’s Forest Trail is a trail for all seasons, offering seasonal surprises to be discovered – bluebells, ferns, fungi, rushes and a wealth of wildlife and birds under a canopy of trees, whether with sunlight dappling through, or with raindrops bouncing leaf to leaf.
Take time to relax, forgetting your cares, and in mindful awareness enjoy allowing the children to explore and let their imaginations run riot. Capture wonderful glimpses of the sea through gateways and gaps in the hedges until you reach Knocknasillogue beach.
Returning along the trail enjoy the stunning scenery and the dramatic views of Wexford’s coastline.
Don't Miss...
- Blackwater Village
- Wild flowers in the forest
- Stunning views of Wexford’s coastline
Useful Trail Information
OSI Discovery Map Series 69
Grid Reference:T 121 341
Ascent: 60m
Walking time: 1hr 50mins
Format: Loop
Surface: Mixed surfaces, forest path, public road
Gates/Stiles: No
Start/Finish: Church Car Park in Blackwater Village
Equipment Recommended: Specific outdoor walking footwear and clothing is recommended for a moderate grade trail.
Other Useful Information
Mobile Coverage: Generally Good
Picnic Area:
Public Toilets:
Facilities: Facilities (refreshments and toilets) are available in Blackwater village.
Dogs: Dogs must be kept under control at all times. If your dog fouls in a public place, then you must clean up after it.
SAFETY NOTICE
With your safety and well-being in mind, please be aware of stormy and tidal conditions at the beach and take care whilst walking on the road section of this trail.
Please check tide times at www.tidesnear.me
Other Walking Trails Nearby
Getting Here
From Wexford town take the R741 over Wexford bridge towards Castlebridge. After approximately 3.5km, turn right at the junction signposted Curracloe onto the R742. Continue for 13km on this road, through Curracloe village until you reach Blackwater village.
These trails are located in Coillte owned forests.
Wexford Walking Trails clg appreciates the support and co-operation of Coillte under their Open Forest Policy.
Trail Grades
Trail grades give an indication of what to expect when out on a trail. The grade will give an idea of the level of fitness and ability required to use the trail.
Before attempting a trail, it is important to consider the grading to ensure it matches your ability and level of fitness.
Wexford Walking Trails are graded by Sport Ireland according to their criteria which is explained here.
Multi-Access
Flat smooth trails, suitable for all users including people with reduced mobility, wheelchair users, people with a vision impairment, using crutches, with a buggy, with small children, older people and so on. Normal outdoor footwear can be worn. Source : Sport Ireland
Moderate
These trails may have some climbs and may have an uneven surface where the going is rough underfoot with some obstacles such as protruding roots, rocks, etc. The routes are appropriate for people with a moderate level of fitness and some walking experience. Specific outdoor walking footwear and clothing is recommended. Source : Sport Ireland
Easy
Generally flat trails with a smooth surface and some gentle slopes or shallow steps. These trails are generally suitable for family groups including children and older people. Normal outdoor footwear can be worn. Source : Sport Ireland
Strenuous
These are physically demanding trails, which will typically have some sections with steep climbs for long periods and the going underfoot can be extremely rough including many obstacles. Suitable for users accustomed to walking on rough ground and with a high level of fitness. Specific outdoor walking footwear and clothing required. Source : Sport Ireland