Carrauntoohil Group Walks | Join a Walk
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Elevation
1,039m
3,407 ft
Prominence
1,039m
Coordinates
51.9995, -9.7427
V803844
OS Map
78
The summit is marked by a large cairn that provides a sense of achievement and an excellent spot for those well-earned sandwiches and a cheeky selfie.
Primarily composed of granite and sandstone with diverse rock features, showing signs of glacial erosion. The mountain is flanked by steep cliffs, with a distinctive pyramid-like shape.
Stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Macgillycuddy's Reeks, the Dingle Peninsula, and Lough Guitane, with clear days allowing visibility to both the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged Beara Peninsula.
Carrauntoohil translates to 'the sickly height' in Irish, possibly indicative of the challenging climbs or the effects of poor weather on the unwary.
Regarded as a sacred place in Irish mythology, Carrauntoohil is a must-visit for both hikers and those interested in the rich folklore surrounding the area.
The Devil's Ladder is the most popular and direct route up Carrauntoohil. Starting from Cronin's Yard, the trail follows the well-trodden Hag's Glen path, passing by two lakes (Lough Callee and Lough Gouragh) before ascending the steep gully known as the Devil's Ladder. The climb is rocky and loose underfoot, requiring care, but the views of the surrounding MacGillycuddy's Reeks are spectacular. The summit offers panoramic vistas of County Kerry.
This route also begins at Cronin's Yard, taking the same initial path through Hag's Glen. Instead of heading to the Devil's Ladder, this route veers off to ascend via Brother O'Shea's Gully, which is quieter and less eroded. It involves steep climbing with some scrambling sections, offering a more adventurous alternative to the Devil's Ladder. The reward is an equally stunning view from the summit.
For experienced hikers looking for a longer, scenic circuit, the Caher Ridge Route is a fantastic option. Starting at the Hydro Road car park, the route ascends Caher (Ireland's third-highest peak) before following the spectacular ridge to Carrauntoohil. The ridge walk offers breathtaking views but requires a good head for heights. The descent can be made via the Devil's Ladder or back along the same route.
The Coomloughra Horseshoe is a classic ridge walk encompassing three of Ireland's highest peaks: Beenkeragh, Carrauntoohil, and Caher. Starting from the Hydro Road car park, the route takes in Beenkeragh Ridge, which is exposed and requires scrambling, before summiting Carrauntoohil. The return leg follows Caher Ridge, completing the horseshoe circuit. This is a demanding but rewarding route for experienced mountaineers.
The Heavenly Gates Route offers a scenic and less-trafficked alternative to the Devil's Ladder. Starting at Cronin's Yard, the route initially follows the Hag's Glen path before branching off to ascend via the Heavenly Gates, a narrow and dramatic passage leading to the upper reaches of the mountain. The trail then merges with the final section of the traditional Devil's Ladder route to reach the summit.
There's limited parking available at the base of The Devil's Ladder, with overflow parking a short distance away. Arrive early to snag a prime spot.
Bus services from Killarney operate to nearby villages, but a bit of walking may be required to reach trailheads.
There are no facilities on the mountain itself, but Killarney offers numerous cafes, shops, and public toilets. Remember to pack your own snacks and drinks unless you fancy a meal deal in town.
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Some common questions about the hills answered
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Carrauntoohil through the maps
Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Carrauntoohil search or of course create your own walk for Carrauntoohil
Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.
If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Carrauntoohil.
There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.
Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.
Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Carrauntoohil here
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Grid Ref: V803844
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