The Best 26 Hiking Trails in Ireland for All Skill Levels

Ireland is a paradise for outdoor walkers and hikers, offering a wide range of hiking trails that showcase the country’s stunning landscapes, from rugged mountains to serene lakes and its famous green rolling hills. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner looking to explore the outdoors, Ireland’s diverse terrain provides something for everyone. 

I have to admit that I’m personally not much of a hiker more of a slow walker and I have some challenges with walking so when I call a hike or walk easy it means that I can do it as long as I take rests along the way. In this article, I explore some of the best hiking trails across the country, suitable for all skill levels, so you can experience all the scenic beauty of Ireland on foot.

Xyuandbeyond is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. You can read my privacy policy here.

What are some of the best hiking trails in Ireland for beginners?

For those new to hiking, some of the best hiking trails in Ireland include the Wicklow Way, which is a long-distance trail that offers stunning views without too much elevation gain. The Glendalough area also provides several hiking trails that are well-marked and suitable for beginners, particularly the looped trails around the monastic site in the valley. Another excellent option is the Dingle Peninsula with its scenic coastal paths that provide breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Are there any challenging hikes in Ireland for experienced hikers?

Yes, there are several challenging hikes in Ireland for experienced hikers. One of the most famous is Carrauntoohil, the highest peak in Ireland, located in County Kerry. The ascent can be strenuous and requires a good fitness level. Another challenging route is Croagh Patrick, known for its steep climbs and religious significance. The Cliffs of Moher offer rugged trails that provide stunning views but can be difficult due to the unpredictable weather and cliffside paths.

What time of year is best for hiking in Ireland?

The best time to hike in Ireland is typically during the late spring to early autumn months, from May to September. During this period, the weather is generally milder, and the trails are more accessible. However, it’s essential to consider local conditions as weather in Ireland can be unpredictable. If you plan to hike in the Wicklow Mountains or Killarney National Park, it’s advisable to check forecasts and be prepared for rain even during the summer months.

What gear do I need for hiking in Ireland?

When preparing for a hiking experience in Ireland, it’s crucial to pack the right gear. Essential items include a good pair of waterproof hiking boots, breathable clothing layers, and a waterproof jacket. A sturdy backpack, a map or GPS device, and sufficient water and snacks are also important. For those hiking in rugged areas like the Causeway Coast or the Dingle Way, trekking poles can provide stability on uneven terrain.

Are there guided hikes available in Ireland?

Yes, there are many options for guided hikes throughout Ireland. Numerous companies offer organized hikes and walks in Ireland, catering for all skill levels.

Cliffs Of Moher Hiking Tour from Doolin – Small Group

Explore the coastline of County Clare with a small-group walking tour. Meet your guide at the starting point in the village of Doolin and set out on a countryside stroll. See several top area landmarks including the Cliffs of Moher and O’Brien’s Tower. Go off-the-beaten-path and find scenic Instagram spots during the walking tour.

Guided Climb of Carrauntoohil with KerryClimbing.ie

Summit Ireland’s highest mountain—and challenge yourself to an active and adventurous day in nature—on this personalized hiking excursion. In the morning, come prepared with outdoorsy gear, make your own way to the start point, and meet your guide. Then, set off on a full-day hike up to Carrauntoohil’s summit and back. As you go, soak up the dramatic scenery, and learn all about the region’s history from your guide.

The 26 best hikes in Ireland 

When it comes to hiking in Ireland, there are countless opportunities to explore the best of Ireland’s natural beauty. One of the best hikes is along the Causeway Coast Way, where breathtaking views of cliffs and beaches await. For those seeking a challenge, Ireland’s holiest mountain, Croagh Patrick, offers a rewarding ascent with spiritual significance. If you’re in search of popular hiking routes, the Torc Mountain trail provides stunning vistas and well-maintained walking trails. In 2025, many guides will suggest these top locations as prime attractions for hikers.

Iveragh Peninsula Hike (Ring of Kerry)

Location: County Kerry

Distance: The full Ring of Kerry route is about 179 km (111 miles). Popular hikes such as the Gap of Dunloe loop (approx. 10 km / 6.2 miles) or the Kerry Way, a long-distance trail stretching over 214 km (133 miles) across the region.

Duration: This can take 5 to 9 days to complete. Shorter day hikes like those to Torc Waterfall or Devil’s Punch Bowl are also options, typically taking 2 to 3 hours.

The Iveragh Peninsula, more commonly known as the Ring of Kerry, is one of Ireland’s most scenic regions, featuring coastal cliffs, lush landscapes, and charming villages. The Ring of Kerry is a popular driving route, but it also offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, with paths ranging from easy strolls to more strenuous mountain routes.

The hikes on the Inveragh Peninsula include a variety of landscapes, from rolling hills to rugged coastlines. You’ll find heathland, boggy paths, and forested areas, along with the stunning beauty of lakes, rivers, and cliffs. The Gap of Dunloe: A scenic mountain pass with dramatic views, usually hiked between Kate Kearney’s Cottage and Lord Brandon’s Cottage.

Kerry Way: A long-distance trail that winds through Killarney National Park, Beaufort, and Cahersiveen, offering stunning vistas of the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks and the Atlantic Ocean.

Beara Peninsula Hike

Location: County Cork and County Kerry

Distance: 206 km (128 miles), shorter hikes along the peninsula can range from 3 to 15 km (1.8 to 9 miles) in length, with durations ranging from 1.5 to 5 hours.

Duration: 7-10 days

The Beara Peninsula in County Cork and County Kerry is less touristy than the Ring of Kerry but equally beautiful, offering dramatic coastlines, rugged mountains, and historical sites. It is a hidden gem for hiking in Ireland, providing a more remote and peaceful experience.

It offers both coastal walks and mountain trails, with the popular Beara Way being a long-distance trail that runs around the peninsula. Keep your eyes peeled for Celtic Crosses, Stone Circles and Ogham stones along your route.

Some popular hikes include:

The Sugarloaf Mountain: A 7 km (4.3 miles) hike with a steep ascent and stunning views.

Glanmore Lake loop: A moderate 10 km (6.2 miles) route with lake and mountain views.

Dursey Island: A more relaxed 4 km (2.5 miles) hike offering views of the Atlantic Ocean and Dursey Sound, accessible via the Dursey Island Cable Car.

The Wicklow Way (Moderate to Challenging)

Location: County Wicklow

Distance: 131 km (81 miles)

Duration: 7-10 days

The Wicklow Way is one of Ireland’s most famous long-distance hiking trails and offers hikers an immersive experience of the scenic Wicklow Mountains. Stretching from Marlay Park in south Dublin to Clonegal in County Carlow, the trail traverses lush forests, heathland, and dramatic mountain ridges. The terrain is diverse, with a combination of forest paths, open moorland, and some more challenging climbs, particularly around Lugnaquilla, the highest peak in the Wicklow Mountains.

The Wicklow Way can be broken up into manageable sections for less experienced hikers. Popular segments like the section between Glendalough and Lugduff are ideal for a day hike and offer picturesque views of the glacial lakes, historic sites, and valleys below. Along the way, hikers will pass through charming villages, ancient ruins, and winding rivers.

For beginners or those seeking a gentler hike, the Glendalough to Laragh trail is a fantastic option. Situated in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains National Park, this moderate hike takes you through the stunning Glendalough Valley, known for its scenic beauty and historical significance. The valley is home to the Glendalough Monastic Site, which dates back to the 6th century, and the trail provides views of two beautiful glacial lakes, Upper Lake and Lower Lake.

The path is well-marked and largely flat, with only a few moderate inclines, making it perfect for those looking for a peaceful, yet immersive, walking experience. The trail is also rich in wildlife, with the possibility of spotting deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species.

The Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk (Easy to Moderate)

Location: County Clare

Distance: 19 km (12 miles)

Duration: 4-5 hours

One of Ireland’s most iconic natural landmarks, the Cliffs of Moher offer one of the most visually spectacular coastal walks in the country. This hike begins at the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre and takes you along the dramatic cliffside, providing breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Aran Islands. The trail follows a well-maintained path, which makes it suitable for beginners and families, though there are sections with steeper drops, so caution is advised.

While the Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk is relatively easy, it does have some moderate inclines and can be windy, so it’s important to be prepared for changing weather conditions. The landscape is awe-inspiring, with vertical cliffs rising 214 meters above the sea and seabirds like puffins, razorbills, and guillemots nesting along the cliffs.

The Burren Way (Moderate)

Location: County Clare

Distance: 123 km (76 miles)

Duration: 5-7 days

The Burren Way takes hikers through the heart of the Burren, one of Ireland’s most unique and mysterious landscapes. Known for its vast limestone pavements, ancient monuments, and rare flora, the Burren offers a fascinating experience for those interested in geology, history, and natural beauty. The trail stretches from Liscannor to Corofin, with the option to tackle the entire route or enjoy smaller sections.

The Burren Way offers a moderately challenging hike, with some steep climbs and rugged terrain. Hikers will encounter a variety of habitats, from rocky outcrops to lush valleys, with the possibility of spotting rare plants like the Early Purple Orchid and the Burren gentian. The route also passes through historic sites, including Poulnabrone Dolmen, a prehistoric burial site.

Carrauntoohil (Macgillycuddy’s Reeks) (Challenging)

Location: County Kerry

Distance: 13 km (8 miles)

Duration: 6-7 hours

For more experienced hikers, a trek to the summit of Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s highest mountain at 1,038 meters, is an unforgettable challenge. Located in the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks mountain range in County Kerry, Carrauntoohil offers spectacular views of the surrounding Killarney National Park, Lough Leane, and the Ring of Kerry.

The climb to the summit is steep and strenuous, with rocky paths and sections requiring scrambling. The Devil’s Ladder route is a popular route up Carrauntoohil, is a challenging climb that involves ascending a narrow gully, and it should only be attempted by those with good fitness and experience. Weather conditions can change rapidly in the mountains, so it’s crucial to be prepared and check weather forecasts before attempting this hike.

The Old Head of Kinsale Loop (Easy to Moderate)

Location: County Cork

Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)

Duration: 3-4 hours

For those looking for a relatively easy but stunning coastal walk, the Old Head of Kinsale Loop is a great choice. Located in County Cork, this loop trail takes you around the headland, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Kinsale Harbour, and the Old Head Lighthouse. The terrain is mostly flat and follows a mix of coastal paths and quiet country roads, making it suitable for beginners and those looking for a shorter hike.

The Old Head of Kinsale is steeped in maritime history, and hikers will encounter a variety of flora and fauna along the way. Keep an eye out for seabirds and wildflowers, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this spectacular coastal walk.

Ben Bulben and Streedagh Bay Loop (Moderate)

Location: County Sligo

Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)

Duration: 3-4 hours

The Ben Bulben and Streedagh Bay Loop offers a moderate hike that combines mountain terrain with coastal views. Located in County Sligo, this trail takes hikers around the base of Ben Bulben, one of Ireland’s most iconic mountains, known for its distinctive flat-topped summit. From the top, you’ll have sweeping views of Sligo Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, and the surrounding countryside. The Great Irish poet and writer W.B Yeats insisted in being buried within view of Benbulbin.

The trail is well-marked and features some moderate ascents, but it is suitable for hikers with a reasonable level of fitness. As you explore the loop, you’ll pass through diverse landscapes, including heathlands, woodlands, and coastal areas, with the chance to see a variety of wildlife and plant species.

Deadman’s Hike Slieve League County Donegal (Challenging)

Location: County Donegal

Distance: Approximately 7 km (4.3 miles).

Duration: The hike typically takes about 3 to 4 hours

Deadman’s Hike at Slieve League on the Wild Atlantic Way is one of the most dramatic and challenging hikes in Ireland, located on the Slieve League cliffs in County Donegal. The hike offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, the surrounding mountains, and the rugged cliffs of the area, which are among the highest sea cliffs in Europe.

The Deadman’s Hike is a challenging, steep trail that takes hikers along the edge of the cliffs, providing some of the most stunning views in Ireland. The path leads you along narrow, exposed tracks that require careful footing, especially as it climbs to the summit of the cliffs. The hike is not marked for the faint of heart and involves some scrambling over rocky and uneven terrain.

Glenveagh National Park County Donegal

Glenveagh National Park, located in County Donegal, offers some of the most stunning hikes in Ireland, surrounded by rugged mountains, tranquil lakes, and lush woodlands. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual walker, Glenveagh has trails suited to every level of fitness and interest. Below is an overview of the park’s top hiking routes, including their duration, difficulty level, and highlights.

Glenveagh Castle Trail

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours round trip

Skill Level: Easy

Distance: 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) one way

This is a flat and easy trail, perfect for beginners or families. Starting at the Visitor Centre, the trail follows a scenic lakeside path to Glenveagh Castle, offering stunning views of Lough Veagh and the surrounding mountains. Along the way, you’ll encounter picturesque gardens, waterfalls, and chances to spot wildlife like red deer and golden eagles.

Viewpoint Trail

Duration: 1 hour round trip

Skill Level: Moderate

Distance: 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles)

The Viewpoint Trail offers one of the best panoramic views in the park. Starting near the castle gardens, the trail climbs steadily uphill, providing rewarding vistas of Lough Veagh, the Derryveagh Mountains, and Glenveagh Castle from above. The incline can be steep at times, but the relatively short distance makes it manageable for most hikers.

Derrylahan Nature Trail

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours round trip

Skill Level: Easy to Moderate

Distance: 2.7 kilometers (1.7 miles)

This circular trail begins near the Visitor Centre and loops through Glenveagh’s enchanting woodlands. The trail features interpretive signs about the park’s flora and fauna, making it an educational and scenic experience. The route also offers occasional views of the surrounding mountains.

Lough Inshagh Walk

Duration: 3 to 4 hours one way

Skill Level: Moderate

Distance: 8 kilometers (5 miles)

For those looking for a longer, more immersive hike, the Lough Inshagh Walk is an excellent choice. This trail connects Glenveagh Castle with the Churchill Road and features a mix of open moorland, forested areas, and streams. The peaceful solitude and breathtaking scenery, including views of the Derryveagh Mountains and Lough Inshagh, make it a memorable experience.

Poison Glen and Lough Agher Loop

Duration: 4 to 6 hours round trip

Skill Level: Moderate to Challenging

Distance: 12 kilometers (7.5 miles)

The Poison Glen, named for its mistranslated Irish name “Gleann Neimhe” (Glen of Heaven), is one of the most iconic landscapes in Donegal. This trail offers dramatic views of Errigal Mountain, craggy peaks, and glacial valleys. The terrain can be uneven, so proper hiking boots are recommended. The reward is the chance to experience Glenveagh’s wild beauty at its finest.

Errigal Mountain (Just outside Glenveagh)

Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours round trip

Skill Level: Moderate to Challenging

Distance: 4.5 kilometers (2.8 miles)

While technically outside Glenveagh, Errigal Mountain is a must-visit for any hiker in the area. As Donegal’s highest peak, the climb is steep but short, offering unparalleled views of the surrounding countryside, Glenveagh National Park, and even the coastline on a clear day.

Diamond Hill Hike Connemara, Galway (Moderate to Difficult)

Distance: Approximately 7 km (4.3 miles).

Duration: The hike typically takes about 3 to 4 hours

Diamond Hill Hike is one of the most popular and scenic hikes in Connemara, County Galway, located in the Connemara National Park. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, the Atlantic coastline, and the beautiful Killary Harbour. The trail is well-maintained and accessible, making it a great option for a variety of hikers.

The Diamond Hill Loop is a moderate to moderate-difficult hike that offers a mix of forest tracks, rocky paths, and mountain terrain. The trail ascends to the summit of Diamond Hill (442 meters / 1,450 feet), which is the highest point of the hike. The path is well-marked, and there are some sections with steps and steeper inclines, especially as you near the top. The summit offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding countryside, including Twelve Bens mountain range, Killary Harbour, Streamstown Bay, and the vast landscape of Connemara.

The trail is relatively safe, with wooden boardwalks and steps in some places, but it can get rocky and muddy in spots, especially in bad weather. It can also be windy at the summit, so hikers should be prepared for the elements.

Croagh Patrick Hike, County Mayo (Challenging)

Distance: The hike covers approximately 7 km (4.3 miles) round trip.

Duration: The hike typically takes around 3 to 5 hours, depending on your fitness level and the weather conditions.

The Croagh Patrick Hike is one of the most famous and iconic hikes in County Mayo, Ireland. It is a spiritual and scenic mountain trek, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including Clew Bay, Westport, and the Atlantic Ocean. Saint Patrick spent 40 days fasting on Croagh Patrick, so it’s a special place of pilgrimageCroagh Patrick is a popular pilgrimage site, with thousands of people ascending it each year, especially during Reek Sunday (the last Sunday in July). It’s a rewarding hike, but it can be challenging due to the steep ascent and rocky terrain.

The Croagh Patrick trail is a steep and challenging ascent, especially in the final section, which can be a test even for experienced hikers. The path is divided into two main sections:

At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Clew Bay, the Twelve Bens mountain range, and the surrounding countryside. On clear days, you can even see Ireland’s west coast stretching out to the Atlantic Ocean.

Reek Sunday can be crowded, so if you’re looking for a quieter experience, consider hiking on a weekday or outside of peak pilgrimage times.

Best Hiking Trails in Northern Ireland 

Northern Ireland offers a wealth of hiking trails that traverse some of the most stunning and diverse landscapes in the United Kingdom. From rugged coastlines and rolling hills to towering mountains and tranquil forests, the region has something for hikers of all levels, whether you’re looking for an easy stroll or a more challenging climb. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best hiking trails in Northern Ireland, catering to a wide range of skill levels, and highlighting the spectacular scenery that awaits.

Giant’s Causeway and Causeway Coast Path (Easy to Moderate)

Location: County Antrim

Distance: 8 km (5 miles) for Causeway Coast Path (can be extended)

Duration: 2-3 hours (for the Causeway Coast Path)

The Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most famous natural landmarks in Northern Ireland, and the Causeway Coast Path offers an excellent opportunity to explore this iconic location. The path follows the rugged coastline between Ballycastle and Cushendun, offering breathtaking views of the North Antrim Coast.

The trail is a mix of paved paths and rocky terrain, with some moderate inclines, making it accessible for beginners with a reasonable fitness level. The section around the Giant’s Causeway itself is relatively easy, where you can walk among the famous hexagonal basalt columns formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago. From there, the trail stretches along cliffs, with views of the Isle of Islay in Scotland, and passes through charming villages like Ballintoy.

This trail is ideal for those looking for a scenic and relatively easy hike, while still experiencing some of the best coastal views in Northern Ireland.

Cave Hill Country Park (Easy to Moderate)

Location: Belfast, County Antrim

Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)

Duration: 1.5-2 hours

Cave Hill Country Park is located just a short distance from the center of Belfast, offering an accessible and scenic hiking destination for those looking to explore the city’s outskirts. The park is named after the distinctive Cave Hill, which is said to resemble the profile of a giant sleeping on the horizon. The hill features a combination of gentle slopes and steeper ascents, making it suitable for hikers of all skill levels.

The hike to the top of Cave Hill is a short but rewarding climb. From the summit, hikers are treated to panoramic views of Belfast Lough, the Antrim Plateau, and even Scotland on clear days. Along the way, you’ll pass through woodland, heathland, and grassy slopes, with opportunities to spot local wildlife. One of the highlights of this trail is the McArt’s Fort, an ancient hilltop fort that provides a historical backdrop to the hike.

Slieve Donard (Challenging)

Location: County Down, Mourne Mountains

Distance: 9.5 km (5.9 miles)

Duration: 4-5 hours

Slieve Donard is the highest peak in Northern Ireland, rising to 850 meters (2,790 feet) in the Mourne Mountains, and is a popular destination for experienced hikers looking for a challenging mountain climb. The trail to the summit of Slieve Donard begins at Donard Park in Newcastle, County Down, and takes hikers through lush woodlands, alongside the River Mourne, and up the rugged mountain slopes.

The ascent is steep and can be physically demanding, especially as you near the summit. However, the views from the top are absolutely worth the effort. On a clear day, hikers can enjoy sweeping panoramas of Carlingford Lough, Newcastle, and the surrounding Mourne Mountains, as well as views across the Irish Sea to Scotland.

This hike is best suited for experienced hikers who are prepared for a strenuous climb. It is also important to be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions in the Mourne Mountains.

Tollymore Forest Park (Easy to Moderate)

Location: County Down, Mourne Mountains

Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles) for the circular route

Duration: 1.5-2 hours

Tollymore Forest Park is a tranquil and accessible hiking destination located at the foot of the Mourne Mountains. This forest park is famous for its picturesque woodlands, rivers, and waterfalls, and it offers a variety of hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. The circular trail around the park is a relatively easy hike, making it ideal for families, beginners, or those looking for a relaxing walk. As you hike the trail and if you are a Game of Thrones fan you will notice many areas of the park that were used in the filming of the show.

The route follows well-maintained paths through dense forests, past ancient trees, and alongside the Shimna River, with views of Tollymore’s distinctive stone bridges and charming cascades. Hikers can also visit the Hermitage, a folly that offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

The Mourne Wall (Moderate to Challenging)

Location: County Down, Mourne Mountains

Distance: 22 km (13.6 miles) for the full loop

Duration: 6-8 hours

For those seeking a longer and more challenging hike in the Mourne Mountains, the Mourne Wall trail is a fantastic option. The trail follows the path of the Mourne Wall, a 19th-century stone wall that stretches for over 35 kilometers and crosses 15 of the Mourne Mountains’ peaks. The most popular section of the Mourne Wall hike covers a 22-kilometer loop, starting at Meelmore Lodge and taking hikers through dramatic mountain terrain.

This trail involves significant elevation gain, so it’s best suited for moderate to experienced hikers. As you walk the Mourne Wall, you’ll pass some of the highest peaks in Northern Ireland, including Slieve Bearnagh, Slieve Meelmore, and Slieve Beg, and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Binevenagh Mountain (Moderate)

Location: County Londonderry

Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)

Duration: 2-3 hours

Binevenagh is a prominent mountain located in the Causeway Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the Sperrin Mountains, Lough Foyle, and the Atlantic Ocean. The trail to the summit of Binevenagh is moderately challenging, with some steep sections, but the hike is relatively short, making it suitable for those with a reasonable fitness level.

The trail offers hikers the opportunity to enjoy a mix of open heathland, wildflowers, and scenic ridgelines. At the summit, the panoramic views are breathtaking, with cliffs that drop dramatically to the surrounding countryside and coast. The area is also rich in biodiversity, with the chance to see a variety of wildlife, including birds of prey and wildflowers.

The Antrim Hills (Moderate to Challenging)

Location: County Antrim

Distance: 15-20 km (9.3-12.4 miles)

Duration: 4-6 hours

The Antrim Hills offer a network of hiking trails that take you through the scenic landscapes of County Antrim. One of the best routes is the Antrim Hills Way, a long-distance trail that stretches from Ballygally to Cairnryan, and it passes through a mix of rural farmland, rolling hills, and rocky outcrops.

This trail offers a moderate to challenging experience, with some steep ascents and diverse terrain, including forest paths, heathland, the 9 Glens and mountain ridges. The views from the top are expansive, providing vistas of the Glenarm Coast, the Mourne Mountains, and Scotland on a clear day.

Hiking the Stairway to Heaven in Northern Ireland

• Duration: 2.5 to 4 hours round trip
• Skill Level: Moderate
• Distance: 11 kilometers (6.8 miles) round trip

The Stairway to Heaven, officially known as the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail, is one of the most iconic hikes in Northern Ireland. Located in County Fermanagh, this trail leads hikers through stunning landscapes of peat bogs, rolling hills, and striking views of the surrounding countryside. The trail culminates in an ascent to the summit of Cuilcagh Mountain, the highest point in County Fermanagh, offering breathtaking panoramic views.

The trail begins at the Cuilcagh Mountain Park car park and follows a gravel path through lowlands and peat bogs. The first portion of the trail is relatively flat and accessible, making it manageable for most hikers. After approximately 4 kilometers, the path transitions into the famous wooden boardwalk, designed to protect the sensitive bogland ecosystem while providing hikers with a clear and safe path.

The boardwalk ascends gradually toward the mountain, culminating in a steep section of wooden steps (450 of them) —this final stretch is where the trail earns its nickname, the “Stairway to Heaven.” The steps climb to a viewing platform near the summit, offering sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, including Lough Erne, the valleys of Fermanagh, and the mountains of neighboring counties on a clear day.

Northern Ireland offers a wealth of hiking trails that cater to all skill levels, from easy coastal walks to challenging mountain climbs. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a leisurely stroll, an intermediate hiker seeking diverse landscapes, or an experienced mountaineer in search of a tough challenge, Northern Ireland has something for everyone. With its mix of dramatic coastlines, rugged mountains, and tranquil forests, hiking in this region provides an unforgettable way to explore its natural beauty. Always ensure you’re well-prepared for the hike, check the weather conditions, and enjoy the adventure!

Ireland’s hiking trails are as varied as the landscapes themselves, offering something for everyone, from short coastal walks to challenging mountain climbs. Whether you’re a beginner looking for an easy, scenic stroll or an experienced hiker in search of a more demanding adventure, the Emerald Isle provides numerous opportunities to explore its natural beauty. Be sure to check the trail difficulty, weather conditions, and necessary preparations before heading out, and always respect nature by leaving no trace as you enjoy the great outdoors in Ireland.

.