HikesIrelandCroagh Patrick

Croagh Patrick

Also known as: The Reek

Croagh Patrick - Ireland’s holy mountain over Clew Bay, a pilgrimage since ancient times

Difficulty 4/5 · HardDayOut-and-backDay pilgrimage summit
Distance
~7 km return
Max elevation
764 m
Elevation gain
~750 m
Duration
3.5-4.5 h
iconicpilgrimagescree coneclew bayday
Capture of a sunlit rocky path in Tollymore Forest Park, Northern Ireland, showcasing vibrant nature.

The route

The line through County Mayo, Ireland - waypoints, elevation and the day-by-day shape of the walk.

Season & conditions

Best season

Year-round (best spring-autumn)

Weather risks

Atlantic wind, rain and cloud; loose wet scree

Open year-round; the loose scree is treacherous when wet/windy. Confirm.

On the trail

Terrain & surface

A track then a steep, loose quartzite scree cone

Technical & exposure

Non-technical walking/hiking; confirm any exposed or scrambly sections locally

Navigation & waymarking

Marked/waymarked route; navigation generally straightforward - carry a map and confirm locally

Accessibility & group fit

Suitable for reasonably fit hikers; not wheelchair accessible - confirm specifics

Crowds & solitude

A popular, well-known route - busier in peak season

Variants & turnaround

Turn around at the shoulder statue

Getting there & staying

Trailhead access

Murrisk, near Westport

Shuttle & transport

Out-and-back/loop - no shuttle needed

Huts, camping & refuges

Day route - none needed

Gear, water & connectivity

Day-hike kit, water, sun/rain protection, sturdy footwear; coverage varies

Facilities

Services in Westport; limited or none on the trail

Guide & crew

Not required; self-guided

Permits & safety

No permit; Reek Sunday pilgrimage (last Sunday of July) is hugely busy

Permits and operators change - confirm before booking.

Hazards

Loose scree (falls/twisted ankles), wind, cloud, crowds on Reek Sunday

Emergency exits & rescue

Retrace the route to exit; dial local emergency services; carry a means of calling for help where remote

This profile is desk research, compiled from public sources - not a first-hand trail report. Coordinates are approximate.

Also in Ireland

Walk Croagh Patrick with your group
Manta plans the route, the huts and the easy alternatives so a mixed crew all get a great day.
Plan this hike