The trail was first proposed by a local environmental group, the Bluestack Environmental Group, and was opened in 2000.[4] It was partly funded by the EU Peace and Reconciliation Fund and construction was carried out by workers on a FÁS Community Employment Scheme.[4] A review of the National Waymarked Trails in 2010 considered that the trail was suitable to be upgraded to a National Long Distance Trail, a proposed new standard of trail in Ireland intended to meet international standards for outstanding trails, and also recommended that the development of looped walks off the main route should be considered.[5]
Starting in Donegal Town, the trail heads north to reach Lough Eske before crossing the Bluestack Mountains to the village of Glenties.[6] From Glenties, it follows the course of the Owenea River to the end of the trail at Ardara.[6]