Hidden amongst the woodland near Rossinver in north County Leitrim, Fowley's Falls is one of those places that reminds you there are still plenty of beautiful corners of Ireland that remain relatively undiscovered. If you're exploring this part of the country, it pairs beautifully with a stop at VDA Coffee in Carrick-on-Shannon — one of the best coffee shops in the region — or a visit to Glencar Waterfall just across the border in County Sligo.

Unlike some of Ireland's better-known waterfalls, you won't find a large visitor centre, gift shop or crowds of tour buses here.

Instead, Fowley's Falls is all about the landscape.

The Glenaniff River rushes down from the surrounding mountains, cutting its way through a deep wooded valley before cascading over exposed limestone on its journey towards Lough Melvin.

Fowley's Falls Isn't Just One Waterfall

This is something worth knowing before you arrive.

If you're expecting to walk through the forest and eventually reach one enormous vertical waterfall, Fowley's Falls is a little different.

Rather than a single dramatic drop, the Glenaniff River cascades over a series of rocky levels.

The result is a succession of waterfalls, rapids and pools running through the woodland.

In many ways, that makes the walk more interesting.

Instead of walking to one viewpoint, taking a photograph and turning around, the river continually changes as you follow it through the trees.

Around one bend you might find a gentle pool. Further along, the water suddenly rushes between rocks before dropping into another cascade.

It's the whole river valley rather than one individual waterfall that makes Fowley's Falls special.

Where is Fowley's Falls?

Fowley's Falls is located near the small village of Rossinver in County Leitrim, not far from Lough Melvin and the border with County Fermanagh.

It's a wonderfully quiet part of Ireland.

The nearest larger towns include Manorhamilton, Bundoran and Ballyshannon, while Kinlough is also within easy reach.

The waterfall is roughly 1 km along the local road from Rossinver, with the entrance to the trail beside the road.

The roads around this part of north Leitrim can be narrow and winding, so take your time — particularly if you meet another vehicle coming in the opposite direction.

Parking at Fowley's Falls

There is a small parking area at the forest entrance, which is the official starting point for the Fowley's Falls Trail.

Parking and access to the walk are free.

Because the setting is rural, always park responsibly and avoid blocking gateways or access for local residents.

The Fowley's Falls Walk

The official Fowley's Falls Trail is approximately 2.8 km long and is graded as a moderate walk by Sport Ireland.

Allow roughly one hour to complete it — though we'd give yourself a little longer if you enjoy stopping for photographs.

The route is linear rather than a loop. It begins at the forest entrance and follows the Glenaniff River through the woodland towards Fowley's Falls.

Leitrim Tourism describes the route as having been developed to remain as natural as possible, with narrow gravel paths and stone stiles constructed using material from the riverbed.

That natural feel is one of the things we particularly like about it. Rather than feeling like a heavily developed tourist attraction, you really feel as though you're following a river through the woods.

How Difficult is the Walk?

Sport Ireland currently grades the trail as moderate.

At around 2.8 km and approximately an hour in duration, it isn't particularly long — but don't confuse short with completely effortless.

This is a natural woodland trail beside a river. You can encounter narrow paths, stone stiles, uneven surfaces, roots and wet or slippery ground.

After rainfall — exactly when the waterfalls are at their best — the trail can naturally be wetter underfoot.

We'd recommend proper walking shoes or sturdy trainers rather than footwear with little grip.

The Mass Rock

There's history hidden in this valley too.

Further along the river is a Mass Rock, associated with the Penal era when Catholic worship was heavily restricted in Ireland.

Mass rocks were secluded locations where Catholic communities could gather for religious services away from the authorities. Leitrim Tourism records that local people gathered at the Mass Rock beside the Glenaniff River during Penal times.

It adds another layer to the walk. What today feels like a peaceful hidden corner of the countryside would once have provided the seclusion local people needed to practise their faith.

Visiting with Children

Families who enjoy woodland walks should love Fowley's Falls. There's something about following a rushing river through the trees that turns an ordinary walk into an adventure for children.

However, this isn't the same type of family attraction as nearby Glencar Waterfall. Glencar has a short developed walk, café, toilets and playground beside the waterfall.

Fowley's Falls is wilder and more natural. There are steep riverbanks and fast-moving water, particularly after heavy rain, so younger children should be kept close and supervised throughout the walk.

Dogs at Fowley's Falls

Dogs are currently permitted on the Fowley's Falls Trail but must be kept on a lead.

This is important both for wildlife and because sections of the surrounding countryside are working agricultural land.

When is the Best Time to Visit?

Fowley's Falls can be beautiful throughout the year, but after rainfall is when the cascades really come alive.

Fortunately, finding recent rainfall in north Leitrim usually isn't the greatest challenge.

Autumn can be particularly atmospheric when the woodland changes colour. Spring brings fresh growth to the valley, while summer gives you longer daylight hours for combining Fowley's Falls with other attractions around north Leitrim.

Walk to The Organic Centre

If you fancy extending your walk, Fowley's Falls is connected with The Organic Centre at Rossinver.

The walking route between the two is approximately 3 km, allowing you to combine the waterfalls with a visit to one of north Leitrim's most interesting attractions.

The Organic Centre has been promoting organic gardening, sustainable living and environmental education for decades. Check current opening arrangements before travelling.

What Else is Nearby?

North Leitrim packs a surprising amount into a relatively small area.

Lough Melvin and the Eco Park at Kinlough are close by — the park has woodland and lakeside walking trails along with a playground and picnic areas.

Head towards Manorhamilton and you can explore more of the spectacular north Leitrim countryside. The Glenade Valley, surrounded by the Dartry Mountains, is another fantastic option nearby.

Fowley's Falls is one of the stops on the Manorhamilton–Glenade Valley Scenic Looped Drive, a route taking in waterfalls, lakes, mountains and some of the quieter landscapes of the county.

You could also continue towards Glencar Waterfall and the Devil's Chimney, creating a brilliant waterfall-themed day through Leitrim.

How Long Should You Spend Here?

Allow around one hour for the official walk.

But we'd recommend giving yourself closer to 1½ hours if it's your first visit — you'll almost certainly stop at several of the cascades and viewpoints for photographs.

If you're combining Fowley's Falls with The Organic Centre or exploring more of the surrounding area, you could easily make a half-day of it.

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Travel Through Ireland Tip

Visit after some rainfall — but wear decent footwear.

The Glenaniff River is much more impressive when plenty of water is coming down from the surrounding mountains, transforming the cascades into a powerful torrent.

But remember that the same rain can make woodland paths, rocks and stone sections slippery. Take your time, keep children away from the river's edge and don't rush simply to reach the end.

Fowley's Falls is one of those walks where the journey along the river is every bit as enjoyable as the destination.

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Location: Near Rossinver, County Leitrim Trail length: Approximately 2.8–3 km Walking time: Around 1 hour (allow 1½ hours) Difficulty: Moderate Trail type: Linear woodland walk Admission: Free Parking: Small parking area at the forest entrance (free) Dogs: Allowed on a lead Best time to visit: After rainfall for the strongest cascades Nearby: The Organic Centre, Lough Melvin, Kinlough, Glenade Valley and Glencar Waterfall