The Old Boathouse Nature Trail is a short scenic walk just a few minutes from Muckross House.
The walk has 10 markers, starting at the large Monterrey cypress (#1) in front of the Old Boathouse (#2) and continuing up the steps beside the boathouse. Next up some is Portuguese laurel (#3). A superb view awaits at #6, looking across Muckross lake and directly onto Devils Island (thrown there from the top of Mangerton).
Continue along and you will arrive at Dundag, a sandy stretch along the lake shore. This is actually no more than 100m (via the tarred road) from the tree at #1.
There is also a new boathouse located on the far side of Muckross House on the shores of Lough Léin. Showing that everything is relative, the "new" boathouse is over 150 years old.
There are two boathouses here - the refurbished dry boathouse with a slate roof and the wet boathouse with the tin roof. Boats would be stored in the dry boathouse, and the idea behind the wet boathouse was that guests of the estate could board at leisure under cover from the elements. Probably rained a good bit back then too.
During the season there are boat trips out to Dinis Cottage from the boathouse (return or one-way).
Parking is available at Muckross House, or alternatively you can turn left 300m after the main entrance gates and head to other parking waypoint. Be aware of the park closing times - the main entrance gates close automatically, times are listed at the gate.