Best trails in Killarney National Park

This is a lovely trail that begins by following the Owengariff before turning right and ascending Torc Mountain. It is a must-see when visiting Killarney National Park, on a clear day the views stretch for miles. In wet weather, the trail can be muddy and slippery, so bring appropriate clothing and footwear. After your walk, the nearby town of Killarney has a number of pubs and cafes, perfect for relaxing at the end of a day on the hills. * Note: Fishing is allowed at Muckross Lake and...

This lakeside trail is easygoing and suitable for a wide range of ages and fitness levels. The landscape along this route is simply breathtaking and picnics on a sunny day can be a great choice for a family or group of friends. The trail will take you from Muckross, past Muckross house and along the shores of the lake, then up to Torc Waterfalls, before returning to the trailhead. Torc is Irish for Wild Boar, and the falls are named after a number of legends set in the area. The Falls are...

Named Torc, meaning Wild Boar in Irish, these falls are the home to many myths and legends. The stream flows down from The Devil's Punchbowl, a glacial lake high on Mangerton Mountain, down the falls, then out in Muckross Lake. Though the trails here are generally well maintained, they can get a little middy following bad weather, so it's always worth wearing stout outdoor shoes. In addition, this being Ireland, the weather is changeable, so bringing waterproofs and a warm layer is always...

Torc Waterfall is a stunning waterfall where the Owengarrif River cascades 20 meters down Torc Mountain, located in Killarney National Park. Torc Mountain is rich in local legends and is named after the Irish word for boar, “torc.” The legend tells of a mythical wild boar that was said to have been killed by Finn McCool. The Yellow trail leads you on the ascending path that runs alongside the Owengarrif River. This trail winds up the wooded slopes and offers several breathtaking viewpoints...

This is a tough but rewarding trail taking on the long climb up beside the river to the Devil's Punchbowl. Here you can enjoy the views over the water and some snacks before taking on the steep and rough climb up to the higher ground and looping round. The trail then descends back to the start. Take care on the rough and steep sections of this trail where the terrain is rocky and loose, especially in wetter and windy conditions. Appropriate footwear and warm and waterproof layers are...

Meaning "Wild Boar" in Irish, the name Torc comes from a number of myths that surround these waterfalls. In one, a man was cursed to turn into a boar every night, but when his secret is revealed to a local farmer he bursts into and disappears into the Devil's Punchbowl (a lake on the nearby Mangerton Mountain from which the stream that flows over Torc Falls flows). In another story, a mighty warrior kills a magic boar on Torc Mountain. Starting in Muckross, this trail takes around the west...

This trail takes you around Ross Castle, thought to have been built by the chieften O’Donoghue Mór in the fifteenth century, and on to Governer's Rock on the shores of Lough Leanne. The Chieftan is said to sleep under the lake. The legend says he rides out of the lake on his horse every seventh year on the first morning of May. So if you're doing this hike in the spring, make sure to keep an eye out for a man on a white horse! The trail takes in some beautiful woodland, as well as beaches...

This extensive loop passes the famous sights of Muckross House, Dinish Cottage, and the Torc Waterfall in Killarney National Park. Starting from the manicured gardens of Muckross House, the trail circumnavigates the entire Muckross Lake (Middle Lake). The route follows level, paved paths through the hauntingly beautiful Reenadinna Yew Woods to reach the historic Dinis Cottage, a perfect halfway stop for tea and cake. A highlight of the circuit is the Meeting of the Waters, a scenic spot...

This circular trail will take you on a circuit of the beautiful Muckross Lake, taking in a number of notable places. Along the way, you'll see the Dinis Cottage, the Meeting of the Waters, the Old Weird Bridge, Torc Waterfall, and Muckross Abbey. Founded in 1448, Muckross Abbey has a long, and often bloody, history. Though now a ruin, it is still a beautiful site which is well worth a visit. Though these paths are generally well maintained, some sections can get a little muddy, or even...

This is a longer route of Torc Mountain that begins at the Muckross House car park and takes you along Muckross Lake, passing Torc Waterfall and other beautiful sights along the way. After passing the waterfall there is a period of steep steps to ascend. There is amazing scenery inside the park on this route including an old farm dwelling, with stone fences still standing the test of time. Enjoy breathtaking panoramas of the lake, the mountains, the park and Killarney itself from the top of...