Best trails in Connemara National Park
Connemara National Park was opened to the public in 1980, and is the setting for a number of beautiful mountains. Parts of the park used to belong to the Kylemore Abbey Estate, the Letterfrack Industrial School, and the private property of Richard ‘Humanity Dick’ Martin, one of the founders of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
Top trails
1
(2707)
•Moderate
•4.4 mi
•Est. 2h 38m
Connemara and Diamond Hill is a magnificent trail in Connemara National Park, with incredible views of the surrounding hills, including the Twelve Bens and the Kylemore Abbey. It is a very well-kept and well-marked trail, along a wooden platform and rock steps for much of the route.
On busy days, the paths can get packed with tourists, and parking can be a challenge, so make sure to plan in advance. This route is perfect for a lovely picnic with family or dog lovers. At the start of the...
2
(707)
•Moderate
•4.1 mi
•Est. 2h 33m
The Upper Diamond Hill Trail has excellent views of the Twelve Bens and the surrounding Connemara countryside. Located in County Galway in western Ireland, Connemara National Park comprises around 2,957 hectares of picturesque mountains, bogs, heaths, grasslands and forests. Another stop along the road is Sruffaunboy Waterfall, which offers impressive views and spectacular moments and photos.
The lower trails are largely along wooden platforms and on stone staircases. Further up the hill,...
3
(732)
•Moderate
•1.8 mi
•Est. 53m
Lower Diamond Hill rises to moderate heights, providing spectacular views, especially of the surrounding Connemara coastline and islands, including Inishbofin.
It then descends through a tranquil valley filled with peaceful and beautiful specimens of Connemara's blanket bog. Diamond Hill Trail is not very difficult, yet it is quite rewarding. The path is well-marked and easily accessible.
The weather here is always changeable, so make sure to bring some waterproofs and warm layers.
The...
4
(288)
•Moderate
•4.4 mi
•Est. 2h 39m
This is a terrific mountain trail in Connemara National Park that provides great views throughout. Some parts can get rather slippery after rainfall, and the weather can change quickly, so best to check the weather forecast before setting out and to come prepared with appropriate footwear and layers.
The lower trails here are wooden walkways and stone steps, but as you get further up the hill they turn more to unkept footpaths.
There is a lovely visitor centre and cafe once you're done...
5
(132)
•Easy
•1.1 mi
•Est. 29m
The Sruffaunboy Trail in Connemara National Park, begins at the Visitor Centre. The trail leads through park woodlands, offering views of Barnaderg Bay, and Diamond Hill. The terrain consists of stone and gravel paths, with some steep sections throughout the trail. This trail is a fantastic way to explore some this rich beautiful countryside, without having to venture far off into the wild.
6
(89)
•Hard
•6.1 mi
This challenging route offers spectacular views, starting at Kylemore Abbey car park and climbing Benbrack and Knockbrack. Parts of this trail may be overgrown in certain seasons, so long pants and appropriate footwear are advised.
The trail is not always entirely clear, so it's advised to download the offline map to follow as you walk.
It's a great day with lovely views over the Twelve Bens, Maamturks, and Kylemore. Enjoy a visit to the wonderful Kylemore Abbey and adjoining visitor...
8
(51)
•Hard
•5.4 mi
•Est. 3h 30m
This trail takes you to the summits of Maumonght and Bencullagh, where you can enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding countryside and a break before returning down the trail. Some parts can get rather muddy during wetter months, so it's best to come prepared with appropriate footwear and layers for full enjoyment.
Trail reviews for Connemara National Park
Fantastic views of the Connemara National Park and surrounding areas from the top. Extremely well-manicured trail making it more accessible to a wider variety of experience and fitness. We did it on a warm and partially sunny day with some windier conditions at the top.
Connemara yellow loop. Very easy but done steep incline.
Sruffaunboy Trail (Yellow Route)
Beautiful panoramas for this hike. Too bad it's so crowded in summer... The trails are well-maintained, a far cry from the wilderness, but an ideal place to get a taste of Connemara's landscapes.
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Lower and Upper Diamond Hill Loop
A hike accessible to all, well-marked, clean and not too technical. The views are spectacular, a must-do in Connemara.
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Upper Diamond Hill via Sruffaunboy TrailSuperb itinerary 360-degree views of the whole of Connemara I recommend
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Parking: Free, Medium lot
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Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to hike in Connemara National Park?
According to users from AllTrails.com, the best place to hike in Connemara National Park is Lower and Upper Diamond Hill Loop, which has a 4.8 star rating from 2,707 reviews. This trail is 4.4 mi long with an elevation gain of 1,292 ft.
What is the longest trail in Connemara National Park?
According to AllTrails.com, the longest trail in Connemara National Park is Benbrack and Knockbrack. This trail is estimated to be 6.1 mi long.
How many trails are in Connemara National Park?
There are 8 trails in Connemara National Park. These trails have an average 4.6-star rating from 4,751 AllTrails community reviews.
Which trail has the most elevation gain in Connemara National Park?
If you're looking for elevation gain, Connemara National Park has you covered. Benbrack and Knockbrack boasts the most elevation gain with 2,171 ft of total ascent. The park's runner-up is Maumonght and Bencullagh, which will get you 1,843 ft of elevation gain.
Are there running trails available in Connemara National Park?
According to AllTrails.com, there are 5 running trails in Connemara National Park and the most popular is Lower and Upper Diamond Hill Loop with an average 4.8 star rating from 2,707 community reviews.
Are there any trails with scenic mountain peak views in Connemara National Park?
Yes, there are 5 trails with scenic mountain peak views in Connemara National Park, including Lower and Upper Diamond Hill Loop, Upper Diamond Hill (Red Route), Upper Diamond Hill via Sruffaunboy Trail, Benbrack and Knockbrack, and Maumonght and Bencullagh.
Are there any trails with springs in Connemara National Park?
Yes, there is one trail with a spring in Connemara National Park: Benbrack and Knockbrack.
Are there any trails with rivers in Connemara National Park?
Yes, there is one trail with a river in Connemara National Park: Benbrack and Knockbrack.