Start at T2108 9183 A where there is parking for 3 or 4 cars. Unusually near this point there is an area planted with eucalyptus trees. Not only do they have the extremely distinctive straight boled shape with colourful peeling bark, you will also be able to smell their distinctive odour. Follow various tracks as shown on the maps here or the OS 1:50,000 to the top. There are a group of telecoms masts ( 2 in 2015) which you will come to, some 100m NE of the top.

This is a relatively mature forest as of 2015 and Coillte have planned substantial felling over the next few years. Views of the top are somewhat obscured by trees, which are are growing, though it is possible to see Cushbawn and some other southern Wicklow uplands. Linkback: https://mountainviews.ie/summit/1164/comment/15408/

Climbed on 21/2/2014. From Rathdrum on the R752 take the road L2120 sign posted Moneystown. after approx 500mts the road forks take the righthand fork and proceed to point T20235 90905 B, there is a newly built bungalow here, parking for maybe two or three cars here. Follow path behind forest barrier mossy and damp to start but after 500mts it meets a more substantial path follow this uphill gaining height all the time until it reaches a fork at a large turning area take the left fork here and after about 300mts at the path`s highest point approx 1.54km form the start there is a path uphill to the right to a communications mast. Summit area is up behind mast in a mature wodded area, plenty of fallen trees hereabouts. Fine views towards Carrick Mt. Total time taken car to car 36mins and a distance of 3.41km Linkback: https://mountainviews.ie/summit/1164/comment/15870/

Near parking for the eastern approach to this summit at T2108 9183 A there is an area of planting of Eucaplyptus trees. Most probably these are the remnants of experimental planting described in an article here:
http://www.societyofirishforesters.ie/pdf/Journals/1960_VOL17_NO1.pdf
This mentions a plot in "Glenealy Forest" though is gloriously vague as to the exact location. Apparently several different types of Eucalyptus were planted in 1934, not all of which proved to be frost resistant. They mention that the elevation above sea level is 560 ft which would be approximately equivalent to the forest entrance mentioned making it more likely that this is the plot mentioned. Linkback: https://mountainviews.ie/summit/1164/comment/17815/

Why are we here? Because it's on the list!

We were blessed with lovely bright weather for the ascent of Ballinastraw. Parking at the recommended spot T2108 9183 A, we followed the forest roads as far as the communication masts. A path (marked by bicycle tyres) led us through the trees to what appears to be the high point at T20450 91849 C.

Views are limited by trees at the summit itself and at the nearby communication masts, but on the way up there are some nice views of nearby hills such as Carrick Mountain.

On the way down we took a short cut, leaving the main track at T20587 91982 D and rejoiining at T20919 92000 E. This is a well-established path and is recommended as the shortest route up and down. Ground conditions mostly firm and dry underfoot, with some muddy patches on the short cut route. No obstacles or challenging terrain encountered.

Return journey approx 35 minutes/2.5 km. Linkback: https://mountainviews.ie/summit/1164/comment/24139/