The River Slaney flows through Leinster, rising in the Wicklow Mountains and passing through counties Carlow and Wexford before reaching the sea. It offers two quite different paddling experiences depending on where you put in. The upper section near Carlow is a short whitewater run of approximately 1.5 kilometres rated Grade 2-3, and its character changes considerably with water levels — paddlers should check conditions carefully before committing to this stretch, as it can vary significantly.

Further downstream, the river transitions into a broader, tidal environment in the Enniscorthy and Wexford area. This lower section has been recognised as a Special Area of Conservation for its diverse wildlife, and paddlers can expect to encounter a range of bird species along the banks. The Boro River, a tributary that joins the Slaney in this lower reach, offers an additional meander through small woodland, where fallen trees have accumulated in the water over the years and add interest to the route.

Notable landmarks along the tidal section include the remains of Browns Castle, largely destroyed in 1649, and Edermine House on the opposite bank, a historic property associated with the Powers Distillery family. The route north from the Edermine area toward Enniscorthy follows the Wexford railway line along the riverbank.

The Baltinglass Outdoor Education Centre runs canoe courses on the Slaney, and guided kayak tours of the tidal section are available through local operators, making it accessible to paddlers of varying experience levels. The river has a long history of commercial navigation, with flat-bottomed boats historically trading as far upstream as Enniscorthy. The river supports populations of salmon, brown trout, European eel, and lamprey, reflecting reasonably healthy water quality in the catchment.