Carrauntoohil is a majestic mountain and the highest peak of Ireland, standing at 1038 meters. Located in a beautiful County Kerry (one of the most majestic regions of the Emerald Isle), Carrauntoohil attracts hikers from all over the world, as well as the majority of locals, conquering this mountain all year round. I was sure that hiking Carrauntoohil, which is barely higher than a thousand meters would not be a great challenge.. but that was a huge underestimation!
Hiking Carrauntoohil - the highest peak of Ireland.
Carrauntoohil is located in County Kerry in Macgillycuddy’s Reeks Mountains, 20 km from the famous Killarney town. Carrauntoohil is a great trekking destination in Ireland, it can be a great outdoor adventure but also a good hiking training. Hiking Carrauntoohil via Devil’s Ladder is a challenging but spectacular adventure – the mountains of Kerry are one of the most dramatic and scenic in the country.
I hiked every region of Ireland and I can tell you Carrauntoohil is challenging but not as demanding as Hiking Glencoaghan Horseshoe Loop (12 Bens) or Slieve Donard in Northern Ireland.
Is Devil's Ladder hike difficult?
Hiking Carrauntoohil via Devil’s Ladder is challenging and if you don’t have a decent hiking experience it is advisable to book a guided climb of Carrauntoohil or one of the epic hikes with tours of Ireland.
No special equipment is needed to climb the mountain, however, there are a number of things to be aware of.
- The route has become more dangerous in recent years due to loose stones.
- Weather forecast – check weather conditions before you leave, due to the closeness to the Atlantic Ocean, the weather near Carrauntoohil may change rapidly.
- Good hiking gear (especially shoes) is a must.
- Carry plenty of water (I always have hot honey ginger tea – great energy BOOSTER), a wind and rainproof jacket, food and high protein snacks (nuts, energy bars, black chocolate).
Hiking Carrauntoohil - a Step-by-Step Guide for adventurous hikers.
Carrauntoohil offers several different routes, each with its own level of difficulty and scenic views. The most popular routes include the Devil’s Ladder, the Caher Route, and the Brother O’Shea’s Gully. Devil’s Ladder – as per the name you would guess it is a challenging trail and it should not be approached by unexperienced hikers. There aren’t many signs on the way up but the path would be visible enough. The beginning of the route is flat and it’s hard to imagine it turns into a steep rocky trail. While it is doable to hike up this route, I don’t think it would be possible to go down the same way. You would be taking the long way back down instead.
Devil's Ladder hiking trail.
STARTING POINT FOR DEVIL’S LADDER HIKING TRAIL is CRONINS YARD – a convenient car park with great tourist information and an absolutely lovely camping site with very good facilities. There is a small caffee/restaurant serving very tasty food.
The first stage of the trail after crossing the bridge leads through beautiful flat hilly scenery. The landscape offers stunning views of rugged terrain, picturesque valleys and the vast expanse of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks mountain range. The beginning of the trail is well maintained.
Further to the trail you’ll be approaching a steep rocky section. Do not go behind people who are hiking ahead of you, to avoid any falling stones. If you stop to take a break to admire the surrounding breathtaking views, always make sure there isn’t anyone ahead of you, to avoid being hit by any stones while you’ll be looking the opposite way. I’ve seen how is there and you should really pay attention to your safety. This section can be really difficult, especially in rough weather conditions.
There are two stunning lakes, shaped in human lungs, which are visible from the higher level. The views of the surrounding green mountains are spectacular. Once you complete the steep ladder section, take the right direction toward the last section of the trail – the big cross on the summit. There will be plenty of people (in good weather conditions) having lunch and rest on the top.
How long does it take to hike Carrauntoohil?
The whole way to the top took us around 3 hours. It was an unusual day for Ireland – the weather was extraordinarily good – we hiked in 28 Celsius degrees in sunny and clear weather conditions. I don’t think this region of Ireland has ever experienced such hot weather before.
Summiting Carrauntoohil.
Hiking Carrauntoohil via Devil’s Ladder really feels like an achievement. In clear weather, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the Irish countryside and coastline. The descent from the summit is just as crucial as the ascent but do not use the same trail hiking down, it must be extremely dangerous.
Hiking Carrauntoohil summary.
Hiking Carrauntoohil is an accomplishment to be proud of. Total hiking time may differ depending on weather conditions. The weather for us was extremely generous and it was a beautiful bright day. Hiking Carrauntoohil took us almost 7 hours with a long lunch break on the top and lots of landscape shooting. Hiking down Carrauntoohil takes another 3 hours.
HEIGHT: the highest mountain on the island of Ireland at 1,038 meters.
STARTING POINT: CRONINS YARD – Tourist information, camping and coffee shop.
HIKING TIME: 6-7 hours up and down.
DIFFICULTY: Moderate/Difficult.
DISTANCE: 12km
CHECK HERE FOR CARRAUNTOOHIL WEATHER FORECAST
Where to stay in Kerry?
Affordable luxury: High-standard Killarney Towers Hotel & Leisure Centre – absolutely fabulous (double room $130/per night if booked in advance).
Exceptional 4* Brook Lane Hotel (~$150/per double room).
Magnificent4* Killarney Dromhall Hotel (~$120/per double room).
Guided hike Carrauntoohil.
Hiking Carrauntoohil is a great adventure but highly depending on weather conditions. It is not advised to undertake this route in icy or windy conditions. The trail is steep and due to loose rocks can be challenging even for experienced hikers. Choosing a guided climb of Carrauntoohil is a great option. It is led by experienced, highly informative guides offering local history, geology and stories in a fun environment.
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