Torc Mountain

Torc Mountain

Torc Mountain Group Walks | Join a Walk

535m Elevation
298m Prominence
I Country

Join group walks, find walking companions and friends, or organise your own!

Classifications

Marilyn Dodd Arderin

Looking for walking companions?

Don't walk alone! Find friendly walkers to explore Torc Mountain together. Join scheduled group walks or start your own.

Elevation

535m

1,755 ft

Prominence

298m

Coordinates

51.9981, -9.5211

V955839

OS Map

78

At the Summit

At the summit, you'll find a small stone cairn which offers a perfect spot to catch your breath and take in the surrounding vistas. There's also a trig point marking the highest point.

Terrain & Geology

A mix of rocky paths and grassy slopes with some boggy sections particularly after rainfall. Be prepared for some uneven ground.

Torc Mountain is primarily composed of granite and sandstone, reflecting the ancient geological processes that shaped this picturesque region. The mountain features stunning rock formations and has been carved by glacial activity, resulting in a unique landscape.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can admire the breathtaking views of the Killarney National Park, the Lakes of Killarney, and the distant Macgillycuddy's Reeks. On a clear day, you can even spot the Atlantic Ocean!

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Torc' comes from the Irish 'Torc', meaning 'wild boar', a nod to the wildlife that once roamed these hills.

Historical Significance

Torc Mountain is not only a gem for hikers but also holds a significant place in local folklore and history, being featured in tales and legends of the region.

Popular Routes

Torc Mountain via Old Kenmare Road

Moderate

This popular route begins at the Torc Waterfall car park and follows the Old Kenmare Road. The trail ascends through beautiful woodland before opening up to spectacular views of the Lakes of Killarney. The final ascent is on a well-defined path leading to the summit with panoramic views.

8.5 km 3 hours

Torc Mountain from Muckross House

Moderate

Starting at Muckross House, this scenic route takes you through the lush Killarney National Park. Following woodland paths and boardwalks, the trail climbs steadily to the summit. The route offers stunning views of Muckross Lake and the surrounding hills.

10 km 4 hours

Torc Mountain Circular Route

Moderate

This circular route begins and ends at the Torc Waterfall car park. It combines parts of the Old Kenmare Road and the Torc Mountain trail. The route offers a mix of woodland, open hillsides, and incredible vistas of the Kerry landscape.

9 km 3.5 hours

Torc Mountain via Cardiac Steps

Challenging

This challenging route begins at the base of Torc Waterfall and takes you up the steep Cardiac Steps. The route eventually joins the main Torc Mountain trail. This path is known for its intensity but rewards you with unparalleled views of the National Park.

7.5 km 3 hours

Torc Mountain and Mangerton Loop

Very Challenging

This ambitious route connects Torc Mountain and Mangerton Mountain. Starting at the Torc Waterfall car park, hikers ascend Torc Mountain first before continuing to the Mangerton plateau. The loop offers an extended day out with breathtaking views of Killarney and beyond.

18 km 7 hours

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Visitor car park at the base of the Torc Waterfall trail. The car park can get busy in peak seasons, so arrive early.

Public Transport

Buses regularly run from Killarney to the nearby Torc Waterfall area, providing easy access for hikers.

Nearby Facilities

There are public toilets at the Torc Waterfall area, and Killarney town offers a variety of cafes and restaurants for post-hike refreshment.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Watch out for slippery rocks, particularly after rain. Also, be mindful of the weather, as conditions can change quickly.

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

Find Walking Companions

Join friendly walkers exploring Torc Mountain and surrounding area

Can't find a walk? Organise your own!

Create a walk and let others join you. It's free and easy!

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Torc Mountain?

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

Are there other walkers around Torc Mountain?

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 Torc Mountain search or of course create your own walk for Torc Mountain

Can I organise a walk to Torc Mountain?

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 Torc Mountain.

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 Torc Mountain?

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 Torc Mountain 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