4.4
(43)
523
hikers
10
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Inniscarra Reservoir offer a variety of routes through a landscape shaped by the man-made lake on the River Lee. The region features tranquil waterside paths, rolling hills, and forest areas within the scenic Lee Valley. Hikers can explore diverse terrain, including the shores of the reservoir and the woodlands of Farran Woods.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
8.15km
02:25
240m
240m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
8
hikers
4.69km
01:12
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
hikers
3.82km
00:59
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
14
hikers
4.77km
01:13
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Inniscarra Dam is a large hydroelectric dam on the River Lee, just west of Cork City, forming the long, narrow Inniscarra Lake.
0
0
Beautiful old stone bridge at the entrance to Ballincollig. Here is also the free large parking lot for the Regional Park
2
0
Comprising of 24 arches, the Inniscarra Bridge was built in the early 19th century for access to the Ballincollig gunpowder mills.
0
0
The perfect place to come with mini hikers who will love following the fairy trail to find hidden doorways, poems and a smattering of fairy dust.
4
0
The site of the Gun Powder Mills were bought by Cork County Council and developed into Balligcollig Park with the buildings becoming part of the surroundings. They were originally opened in 1794 and work at the mills was extremely dangerous. Explosions were frequent and numerous lives were lost.
0
0
Great tracks for walkers of all age, also some for those with mobility issues
3
0
There are 10 hiking routes around Inniscarra Reservoir that are easily accessible from bus stations. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from easy strolls to more moderate hikes.
Yes, several easy routes are suitable for families. The Ballincollig Gunpowder Trails loop from Ballincollig is an easy 4 km hike through parkland. Another great option is the Hiking loop from Ballincollig, which is just under 5 km and also rated easy.
The trails around Inniscarra Reservoir offer diverse landscapes. You'll find tranquil waterside paths, rolling hills, and lush forest areas within the scenic Lee Valley. Many routes provide picturesque views of the expansive reservoir itself.
Yes, many of the routes are circular, making them convenient for public transport users. For example, the Ballincollig Regional Park – Inniscarra Bridge loop from Lee offers a moderate 8.5 km circular hike. The Ballincollig Gunpowder Trails loop from Ballincollig is another popular circular option.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from 41 ratings. Reviewers often praise the scenic waterside paths, the varied terrain, and the accessibility of the trails from public transport.
Yes, the Inniscarra Dam from Ovens route is a moderate 8.15 km hike that provides excellent views of both the historic Inniscarra Dam and the reservoir it created.
Absolutely. The region is known for its lush forest areas. While not directly on a bus route listed here, Farran Woods, located on the southern shore of the reservoir, is a significant natural attraction with diverse trees and offers fantastic views. Many of the trails accessible from bus stations will incorporate sections of woodland.
Many routes pass through or near notable green spaces. For instance, the Ballincollig Regional Park – Inniscarra Bridge loop from Lee takes you through Ballincollig Regional Park, offering pleasant parkland and green spaces. The Fern Garden – Blarney Castle and Gardens loop from Blarney also offers a scenic walk near historic gardens.
The Inniscarra Reservoir area is appealing year-round due to its diverse mix of tree and shrub species. Spring brings new growth, summer offers pleasant waterside walks, autumn showcases vibrant foliage, and winter provides tranquil, crisp views. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Yes, the area offers a variety of trails suitable for different fitness levels. Out of the 10 routes accessible from bus stations, 8 are rated as easy, and 2 are moderate, ensuring there's something for everyone, from leisurely strolls to more challenging hikes.

