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Long Distance Hikes in Ireland

Emerald hills, rugged coastlines, and ancient pathways await.

Ireland’s long-distance hiking trails lead you through timeless landscapes steeped in myth, history, and wild natural beauty.

32 Hiking Trails & Thru-Hikes in Ireland
Showing 32 hikes
Waterford Greenway
#922
68/100
Waterford Greenway
Ireland46 km1-2 days
Kildare Monastic Trail
#878
71/100
Kildare Monastic Trail
Ireland92 km1-2 days
Western Way
#5
94/100
Western Way
Ireland179 km7 days
Causeway Coast Way
#190
86/100
Causeway Coast Way
Ireland51 km2 days
Twelve Bens Traverse
#890
70/100
Twelve Bens Traverse
Ireland28 km1 day
Galtymore Ascent
#550
79/100
Galtymore Ascent
Ireland9 km1 day
Cape Clear Island Loop
#482
80/100
Cape Clear Island Loop
Ireland8 km1 day
Sheep’s Head Way
#114
89/100
Sheep’s Head Way
Ireland88 km5 days
Ireland’s National Famine Way
#657
77/100
Ireland’s National Famine Way
Ireland165 km6 days
Dingle Way
#48
91/100
Dingle Way
Ireland179 km8 days
Old Rail Trail
#954
64/100
Old Rail Trail
Ireland43 km1 day
Kerry Way
#54
91/100
Kerry Way
Ireland214 km9 days
Inishbofin Loop Trails
#561
79/100
Inishbofin Loop Trails
Ireland18 km1 day
Lough Derg Way
#154
87/100
Lough Derg Way
Ireland68 km3 days
Great Western Greenway
#855
72/100
Great Western Greenway
Ireland42 km2 days
Achill Island Trails
#406
81/100
Achill Island Trails
Ireland
Limerick Greenway
#955
64/100
Limerick Greenway
Ireland39 km1 day
Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk
#569
79/100
Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk
Ireland18 km1 day
Tochar Phádraig (Patrick’s Way)
#472
80/100
Tochar Phádraig (Patrick’s Way)
Ireland35 km1-2 days
St. Kevin’s Way
#664
77/100
St. Kevin’s Way
Ireland34.3 km1 day
Blackwater Way
#75
90/100
Blackwater Way
Ireland168 km10 days
Pilgrim’s Path to Croagh Patrick
#687
77/100
Pilgrim’s Path to Croagh Patrick
Ireland7 km1 day
The Bluestack Way
#217
86/100
The Bluestack Way
Ireland65 km3 days
Valentia Island Trail
#551
79/100
Valentia Island Trail
Ireland4.5 km1 day
Beara Way
#165
87/100
Beara Way
Ireland206 km9 days
Slí Cholmcille
#130
88/100
Slí Cholmcille
Ireland65 km3-4 days
Aran Islands Loop Trails
#387
82/100
Aran Islands Loop Trails
Ireland12 km1 day
Royal Canal Greenway
#941
67/100
Royal Canal Greenway
Ireland130 km4 days
Slieve Bloom Way
#758
75/100
Slieve Bloom Way
Ireland70.5 km3 days
Mourne Wall Challenge
#929
68/100
Mourne Wall Challenge
Ireland33 km1 day
Maamturks Challenge
#874
71/100
Maamturks Challenge
Ireland24.3 km1 day
Wicklow Way
#21
93/100
Wicklow Way
Ireland130 km7 days

Key Facts About Hiking in Ireland

Ireland Hiking Overview

Ireland is a hiker’s paradise, offering long-distance trails that weave through dramatic coastlines, rolling green hills, mystical boglands, and historic ruins.

Trails pass through national parks, remote countryside, and traditional villages, revealing the soul of the Emerald Isle step by step. With a temperate climate, well-marked routes, and abundant cultural landmarks, Ireland is perfect for multi-day hikes. Whether you’re walking ancient pilgrim paths, coastal routes, or cross-country trails, hiking here blends outdoor adventure with deep cultural discovery.

The Longest & Most Popular Hiking Trails in Ireland

The Ireland Way, stretching around 1,000 km from Castletownbere to Ballycastle, is the country’s longest trail.

The Kerry Way is the most popular, circling 214 km through mountains, lakes, and Atlantic coastline in one of Ireland’s most scenic regions.

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Hiking Seasons in Ireland

The best hiking seasons are spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October), with mild weather, vibrant landscapes, and fewer crowds on popular trails.

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The Best Month to Hike in Ireland

May is often the best month, offering long daylight hours, pleasant temperatures, and blooming landscapes — ideal for multi-day hiking adventures.

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Hiking Permits & Licenses in Ireland

Most trails are free to hike without permits. However, some protected areas or private lands may require permission, so always check local signage and guidelines.

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Can I wild camp whilst hiking in Ireland

Wild camping is generally tolerated in remote areas if you follow Leave No Trace principles, stay discreet, and seek landowner permission where possible.