22-05-2025
Wicklow's Great Sugarloaf has a new trail open for summer hikes
Almost three years of planning had gone into the project, with the final proposals approved last April to preserve the mountain, making it more sustainable and more accessible for walkers.
The mountain, described by Wicklow County Council as 'one of the busiest recreational areas' in the county, was suffering significant erosion and habitat destruction, while the car park was in dire need of an upgrade.
The urgency to do something was borne out in the footfall, with figures last summer showing an average of 220 people made the climb every day – with a spike of roughly 870 on a Saturday and 760 on a Sunday.
The works were well underway last summer, and involved a local contractor Howie Miller with his own team, which included workers who completed the restoration of the Croagh Patrick trail.
Councillor Stephen Stokes was at the foot of the mountain with the cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, councillor Paul O'Brien, as the finishing touches were approved on Wednesday, May 21. It was also the official launch of the Wicklow Trails app, an innovative digital guide designed to enhance the visitor experience across the county's scenic walking routes.
'The Great Sugarloaf is a treasured part of Wicklow's landscape and identity,' Cllr Stokes said. 'This restoration project ensures that the mountain is protected while enhancing the visitor experience. The Wicklow Trails app is a fantastic tool for both locals and tourists to explore our county's breath-taking walks, and to do so safely and sustainably."
The Great Sugarloaf restoration project was led in collaboration with key environmental partners, with funding received from the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS). Cllr Stokes explained the project focused on repairing eroded paths, improving trail safety, and preserving the mountain's unique landscape for generations to come. The initiative has ensured that the Great Sugarloaf remains accessible while safeguarding its natural beauty.
Cllr O'Brien praised the collaborative effort behind the project and the potential of the new app to boost sustainable tourism in the region. Since its soft launch, earlier this year, the Wicklow Trails app has had over 11,000 unique visitors, with the majority coming from Dublin.
"Of particular interest is that 20pc of visitors are viewing the website from a desktop,' Cllr Stokes added.
'This indicates that people are planning their journeys in advance. Part of the goal with the app is to encourage walkers to consider alternative trails, which encourages tourism right across County Wicklow rather than a few key sites."
ADVERTISEMENT
The Wicklow Trails app includes interactive trail maps, and safety tips making it an essential companion for walkers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts of all levels.
'This is a wonderful day for County Wicklow,' Cllr Stokes said, as he extended his thanks to the local community, volunteers, and project partners for their dedication throughout the Great Sugarloaf restoration works.
'Not only have we preserved a vital part of our natural heritage at the Great Sugarloaf, but we are also embracing technology to promote responsible outdoor recreation. The Wicklow Trails app will empower users and encourage more people to discover the beauty of our county."
