Start : Parking of Maghera, Maghera, Ardara, Co. Donegal
(S) From the car park, turn left (North-East) along the road. This road section follows along the Maghera Strand before finally reaching a stunning tiered waterfall, Assarnacally Waterfal after around 1 Kml. Please note that the road can be busy at times and care should be taken.
(1) Past Assarnacally Waterfall and walk for around 6.3 Km until the road intersects with the N56.
(2) Take a left (North) and head into the town of Ardara. This is the beginning of the Bluestack Way. The IAT route follows the same path all the way towards N15 outside Donegal town.
(3) In Ardara head North along the main street, (around 1.7 Km) crossing the Owenlocker River and climbing the hill.
(4) Pass the N56 junction to Glenties and continue North on towards Nairn and Portnoo, following a busy road. Follow signs for the Bluestack Way to Donegal Town.
(5) After around 400 m, take a right (East) to follow a quiet road. Cross through the gate and continue along this country road for around 2 Km. Great views towards Bluestack Mountains and back towards the coast can be enjoyed here.
(6) You then reach the Owenea River and cross over the bridge then climb a wooden stile to head cross country following the river. Continue to walk over the many short wooden planks, which are in good condition. Climb another stile and continue along the river, passing a short, boggy section. Old rail road tracks appear on and beside the footpath, continue to walk along the tracks for a couple hundred meters.
(7) You should cross a fork in the river and reach a forest track. Continue between the river and forest, passing by two metal footbridges and a stone bridge. Climb a double stile and take a right over a bridge. After 50 meters, take a left, then climb another stile and continue along the river. Cross a total of five stiles and finally cross a metal bridge over the river. Continue straight from the bridge heading towards the building with red roof.
(8) Take a left here and go through the gate. You will then reach a road junction with trail signs and markers.
(9) Take a right turn East (sign says to Donegal Town) and follow the road, before reaching a Y-junction.
(10) Veer right. Glenties comes into view and the road enters the town. Arrive on the main street.
(11) Take a right (South-East). Continue to walk down the main street passing several restaurants, shops and pubs. (E)