The Devils Ladder is the most popular route. It will take the average walker 5 to 7 hours to climb it.  (12km return)

It is the most direct and shortest route to the summit of Corrán Tuathail.  Do not underestimate the climb as it is a strenuous climb. If you require further information on your fitness levels, please right our office +353 64 664418.

It is essential to ensure you have the proper gear and enough food for your day’s challenge.

Weather forecast for Carrauntoohil:

In the event of a red weather warning alert on Carrauntoohil, we will use an alternative hike on the day or cancel to another time, to ensure your safety.

Free Webinar on climbing Carrauntoohil

Distance: 11km approx.

Route: Cronins yard – Devils Ladder – Carrauntoohil – Devils Ladder or The ZigZags

Duration: 5-7 hours

Please contact us for more details and information. 064 6644181 or info@patfalvey.com

Brother O’Shea’s Gully (13km return) has become a standard and reasonably safe alternative route to the Devil’s Ladder. It starts along the same trail from Cronin’s Yard as the Devil’s Ladder before branching off to the right just before the stepping stones across the river. It’s a scenic route with great views and the chance to get up close to the dramatic, steep north-east face of Carrauntoohil.

Once you branch off, the trail traverses across and up the slope above Lough Gouragh, while the other route continues straight between the two lakes.

Free Webinar on climbing Carrauntoohil:

Distance: 13km approx.

Route: Cronin’s yard – Lough Gouragh – Cummeenoughter -Eagles Nest – Brother O’Shea’s Gully – Beenkeragh Ridge Carrauntoohil – Devils Ladder or The ZigZags

Duration: 6-9 hours

Distance: 15km approx.

Route: Lough Eagher – Beenkeragh – Carrauntoohil – Caher

Duration: 6-9 hours

Price: €85 per person

Not for the faint-hearted, this route is a favourite for intermediate and even experienced walkers and is ideal for hillwalkers who want a more challenging day. The views on each section form a fantastic circle of scenery centred around the Coomloughra and Lough Eagher, with views toward Sneem, West Cork, Kenmare Bay, the Reeks, the Black Valley and Killarney, the Laune and Maine Valleys, Slieve Mish, Brandon, Dingle and Iveragh Peninsulas.

Previous experience of mountain walking and ridge walking would be an advantage as this day includes some scrambling. The option of further scrambling is available on the Hag’s Tooth for those with the right level of fitness and mountain experience, and a love for adventure. Summits reached on this trek are Skregmore (optional), Stumpa Bharr ná hAbhann (851m), Beenkeragh (1,010m), Carrauntoohil (1,039m), Caher (1,001m), Caher West Top (975m).

What you wear while climbing Carrauntoohil is very important. It will ensure you will enjoy your climb especially when weather conditions are challenging. It is vital to ensure that you are warm, dry and comfortable in your clothing and footwear and that you have some essential equipment with you to ensure that you have an enjoyable experience. The following is a list of gear that you should own if you are a regular hillwalker or climber: See video and gear list below.

Clothing:

• • Lightweight, long thermal underwear
  • Short and long-sleeved t-shirts
  • Fleece jacket
  • Fleece or cotton trousers (no jeans)
  • Jacket – waterproof and breathable; with attached hood
  • Over-trousers, waterproof and breathable

Headwear:

• • Sun hat with good visor for summer
  • Balaclava/facemask – 1, lightweight
  • Woolly hat
  • Sunglasses – UV & IR protection

Handwear:

• • Gloves – 2 pairs, lightweight and heavier for the cold

Footwear:

• • Light hiking boots
  • Gaiters
  • Trekking Socks

Trekking equipment:

• • Daypack
  • Walking poles
  • Sunscreen – SPF 30-40
  • Lipscreen – SPF 20-40
  • Personal First Aid Kit

Miscellaneous items:

• Spare boot laces, bulbs, batteries, memory cards, headtorch
• Coldwater detergent and some toiletries
• Small sewing kit
• Camera
• Insect repellent
• Baby wipes/hand wipes
• Hand gel
• Personal medication
• 1 x flask with a hot drink (optional)
• Map OSI 78 and compass (optional)

For 2022 we will have group walks Saturday and Sundays of each month.

How fit do you need to be to climb Carrauntoohil?

While strenuous and reasonably demanding, Carrauntoohil is achievable by people who lead a moderately active life and take part in regular exercise. However, the main requirement is a positive attitude. Our guided ascents are lead by Pat and his team of experienced mountain leaders. Therefore you will be in safe hands on your Carrauntoohil adventure. We offer hikes for all levels of fitness and experience, ranging from beginners to experienced hillwalkers and trekkers. We offer a wide range of route options including; The Devils Ladder, The ZigZags, Brother O’Shea’s Gully, Carrauntoohil Horse Shoe to name a few.

Climb Carrauntoohil as a Group

Also, we specialise in guiding groups on the mountain. Many of our clients choose to climb with family and friends, in order to share their achievement and memories. Similarly, we love bringing corporate groups to the summit. A fantastic way to build leadership and teamwork. For tourists and visitors to the region, we often have last-minute availability, so that you can experience Ireland in a unique and memorable way.