Best family friendly hiking trails in Ireland
Planning a hike with the whole family? These trails are perfect for little feet and big adventures, offering fun, easy routes that’ll have everyone smiling from start to finish.
Here are some great trails to explore in Ireland.
Most popular trails
Reviews for family friendly hiking trails in Ireland
Wicklow Way JB Malone to Djouce
eoin hamilton · reviewed about 1 year ago
some of the best views in Wicklow
Crone Wood And Maulin Mountain
Andy P · reviewed over 1 year ago
The first half of the hike through the woods and nough, the steepness only increases gradually so it's not too hard on the legs. The last bit up to the summit is a bit steeper but not too bad. Fantastic views of the Great Sugar Loaf, Powerscourt Waterfall, Dalkey Island, Bray head etc. Took us about 2 and a half hours in total.
WildwoodTracker97 · reviewed 9 months ago
Lovely walk mainly uphill, would recommend. Beware it’s quite exposed, so might be preferable to do this loop when it’s not too windy. HiiKER app was great, hard to follow the maps/markings in tiknock without the app.
PeteHiiKER · reviewed over 3 years ago
Love this trail for a weekend afternoon. Challenging enough in parts for a bit of exercise but also plenty of strollable metres to catch you breath and take in some of the best parts and sights of the Dublin Mountains Way.
Frequently asked questions for hiking trails in Ireland
Autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and an increase in rainfall. However, it can be a beautiful time to hike in Ireland, as the landscapes transform with vibrant autumn colors. The weather can be unpredictable, so check forecasts and plan accordingly. Spring (March to May) offers similar conditions, with cool temperatures and occasional showers. It's a quieter time to explore the trails, and you can witness the country's lush vegetation come to life.
Winter (December to February) can be challenging for hikers due to shorter daylight hours, colder temperatures, and more frequent rain. However, some enthusiasts still enjoy winter hiking in Ireland, taking advantage of fewer crowds and the unique beauty of frost-covered landscapes. Safety is paramount during this season, so ensure you have appropriate gear and check local conditions before embarking on your adventure.
For more detailed climate information and to plan your hiking trips accordingly, you can visit Met Éireann, Ireland's National Meteorological Service: https://www.met.ie/
Remember to always prioritize safety and be prepared for changes in weather conditions, regardless of the season.
To learn more about Ireland's flora and identify specific species, resources like the National Biodiversity Data Centre provide valuable information and interactive guides: https://biodiversityireland.ie. Remember to respect and protect the natural environment by not picking or damaging any plants you encounter during your hikes, ensuring that future hikers can appreciate Ireland's diverse flora.
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