L9080 : The start of the descent from Croagh Patrick

Croagh Patrick

764m Elevation
638m Prominence
I Country
Find walking friends Explore routes

Good walks are even better shared.

L9080 : The start of the descent from Croagh Patrick

Eric Jones Photo source

Explore routes near Croagh Patrick

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

The Pilgrim Path

This is the most popular and traditional route to the summit of Croagh Patrick. Starting from the car park in Murrisk, it follows a well-worn path to the top. The route is steep in places and can be slippery, but it offers stunning views of Clew Bay and the surrounding countryside. Pilgrims and hikers alike use this route, especially on Reek Sunday.

7 km ~4 hours Moderate to Challenging

The Western Ascent

This quieter route begins near Lecanvey village and offers a more tranquil ascent with fewer crowds. The trail is less defined than the Pilgrim Path, requiring good navigation skills, but rewards hikers with unspoiled views and a sense of solitude. It eventually joins the main trail near the summit.

8 km ~4.5 hours Challenging

The Northern Ridge

For experienced hikers, the Northern Ridge route provides a more adventurous ascent. This route starts near Bertra Beach and involves some scrambling along the ridge. It is less trafficked and offers dramatic views over Clew Bay and the surrounding peaks.

9.5 km ~5.5 hours Difficult

The Eastern Approach

This route begins near Aghagower and offers a longer, less steep ascent. It meanders through farmland and quiet trails before joining the main path near the summit. This is a good option for those seeking a less direct but scenic hike.

10 km ~6 hours Moderate

Circular Route via the Southern Descent

This loop option starts on the Pilgrim Path but descends via a southern trail back to the starting point. It provides a varied perspective of the mountain and allows hikers to avoid retracing their steps. Note that the descent can be challenging due to loose rocks.

11 km ~6.5 hours Challenging
Browse more walks on the map

Make a day of it, together

Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.

Find walking friends Plan a walk here
Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Simm Hewitt Dillon Arderin Vandeleur-Lynam

Elevation

764m

2,507 ft

Prominence

638m

Coordinates

53.7600, -9.6601

L905802

OS Map

30

At the Summit

At the summit, you’ll find a large stone cross, a cairn, and breathtaking panoramic views of Clew Bay and the surrounding countryside. It's an excellent spot for reflective moments or just marveling at the creation (and maybe having a snack).

Terrain & Geology

A mix of rocky paths and grassy slopes with sections of loose stones that will test your footing particularly on the ascent and descent.

Croagh Patrick is primarily composed of granite and schistose rocks, formed during the Caledonian Orogeny. The mountain displays classic glacial features, including sharp ridges and U-shaped valleys, which can offer stunning geological education for enthusiasts.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, enjoy views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Burren, and numerous islands dotting Clew Bay. On a clear day, you can even see as far as the Connemara Mountains.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name Croagh Patrick derives from the Irish 'Cruach Phádraig', meaning 'Patrick's Stack', named after St. Patrick who is said to have fasted on the mountain for 40 days.

Historical Significance

Regarded as a place of pilgrimage, Croagh Patrick has attracted visitors and worshippers for centuries, particularly during Reek Sunday, a mass pilgrimage held every July.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a car park located at Murrisk, approximately 500 meters from the trailhead. Expect a busy lot during peak season, so arrive early to snag a spot.

Public Transport

Regular bus services operate from Westport to Murrisk. Check local timetables for the most up-to-date information.

Nearby Facilities

Nearby, you can find a café in Murrisk offering refreshments and toilet facilities. For a meal post-hike, Westport has a plethora of eateries and bars to choose from.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Variable weather conditions can change rapidly, leading to sudden fog or rain. Loose stones on the paths can also pose a tripping hazard.

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Croagh Patrick?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Croagh Patrick through the maps

Are there other walkers around Croagh Patrick?

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 Croagh Patrick search or of course create your own walk for Croagh Patrick

Can I organise a walk to Croagh Patrick?

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 Croagh Patrick.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

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.

Can I suggest a new route up Croagh Patrick?

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 Croagh Patrick here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: L905802

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.

Nearby Hills

Mweelrea

815m

Knocknarea [Cnoc na Riabh]

327m

Slieve League [Sliabh Liag]

596m

Caherconree

834m

Carrauntoohil

1,039m
See 5 more nearby hills