The trail starts in Robertstown and follows the Barrow Line Canal, a branch of the Grand Canal, as far as Athy via the towns of Rathangan and Monasterevin.[3] The section from Robertstown to Rathangan once formed part of the now defunct Kildare Way.[4] At Athy, the Way joins the River Barrow and follows its banks to St Mullin's, taking in the towns of Carlow, Leighlinbridge, Bagenalstown, Goresbridge, Borris and Graiguenamanagh.[5]
The Barrow Way connects with the Grand Canal Way at Robertstown.[6] It also shares its route with that of the South Leinster Way between Borris and Graiguenamanagh.[7]
A review of the National Waymarked Trails in 2010 found usage by multiday walkers to be moderate and usage by day walkers to be high.[2] The Barrow Way is often done by way of a series of out and back excursions rather than as one continuous walk.[8] The review recommended consideration be given to developing sections as a cycle route.[2] The review also recommended that the Barrow Way be designated as a National Waterway Trail as it falls into the category of trails that follow the towpaths of inland waterways.[9]
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