It is the route taken by the Limerick – Tralee/Fenit railway line, which opened in stages between 1867 and 1887. Most of the route closed between 1975 and 1978 but remains the property of CIÉ ( the National Transport Company). Much of the development as a recreational amenity has been undertaken by the GST Ltd. which is a voluntary group assisted by various Local and State agencies.
Today the GST is suitable for off road walking and cycling along 36km of the Co. Limerick section of the route between Rathkeale and Abbeyfeale. In Co.Kerry a short stretch has been developed near the Lartigue Museum in Listowel and work has commenced on the Tralee-Fenit section.