Statistics: 9.6 miles, ascent 2222′, descent 1950′, 5 hours
We were given a ride back from the B&B to Crone Woods Car Park with Phil, Norma and Jeff the dog, who was decked out in his rain gear, ready to go to work. Now we knew that we were really in Ireland – it was raining!
Most of our morning’s walk consisted of a steady climb in drizzling rain. These conditions, however, were not without their rewards. The gain in elevation provided a beautiful view of the Powerscourt Waterfall, fed by the Dargle River;
and the rain intensified the deep, rich colors of the foliage alongside the trail.
There was one more ascent to a final view of Dublin Bay and The Great Sugarloaf mountain.
At the top of the hill the path crossed a very large, desolate, marshy bog. In order to preserve the natural state of the bog, 3 km of raised planks defined this path over the bog. While we were on these planks, on-coming hikers warned us that the way was treacherous and we soon discovered why. The wind was fierce and gusty. If not for my hiking poles, I am sure that I would have been blown off the planks.
Now descending, we came upon a jewel of a lake, Laugh Tay. I can only imagine how beautiful this lake would have been on a sunny day.
Nearing the end of our day’s walk we entered a forest of giant trees which towered above us.
In spite of the rain, this day was quite rewarding with its pleasing variety and beauty. Our gracious host for that evening, Catherine, (Ashlawn B&B), served us a cup of tea in her conservatory upon arrival. We were soon dried out and warm.
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