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Best difficult hikes in County Donegal
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Best difficult hikes in County Donegal

Got your game face on? These difficult hikes are designed for hikers who are looking for a serious adventure.

Here are some great hikes to explore in County Donegal.

Most popular hikes

1

Difficult

Slieve League Ridge Walk

County Donegal, Ireland · star 4.4 (27) · 4.6 km · Est. 1 hrs 27 min

2

Difficult

Port Pier to Maghera Beach Walk

County Donegal, Ireland · star 4.6 (22) · 13.3 km · Est. 3 hrs 54 min

3

Difficult

Muckish from Gleennaneoreor

County Donegal, Ireland · star 4.6 (22) · 4.8 km · Est. 1 hrs 42 min

4

Difficult

Horn Head Loop

County Donegal, Ireland · star 4.6 (24) · 3.1 km · Est. 57 min

5

Difficult

Sliabh Liag Cliff Top Path to Trig Point

County Donegal, Ireland · star 4.3 (13) · 10.6 km · Est. 3 hrs 26 min

6

Difficult

An Earagail and Mackought Summit Walk from Dunlewy

County Donegal, Ireland · star 4.5 (14) · 6.8 km · Est. 2 hrs 23 min

7

Difficult

Slieve Snaught Loop from Lough Barra

County Donegal, Ireland · star 4.6 (30) · 13.6 km · Est. 4 hrs 9 min

8

Difficult

Crockfadda and Drumnalifferny Mountain Loop from Lough Barra

County Donegal, Ireland · star 4.6 (18) · 11.7 km · Est. 3 hrs 45 min

9

Difficult

Muckish Loop from Lough Agher

County Donegal, Ireland · star 4.5 (26) · 9.9 km · Est. 2 hrs 56 min

10

Difficult

Pilgrim's Path Sliabh Liag

County Donegal, Ireland · star 4.5 (13) · 8.4 km · Est. 2 hrs 33 min

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Reviews for difficult hikes in County Donegal

Marzena avatar

Slieve League Ridge Walk

Marzena · reviewed almost 3 years ago

star star star star star

Sportsman22 philly avatar

Port Pier to Maghera Beach Walk

PanoramaTrekkerPhilly · reviewed 9 months ago

star star star star star

Extremely difficult coastal trail with steep inclines and no canopy cover from the searing heat. However a wonderful hidden gem with outstanding natural beauty

Declan Whelan avatar

Muckish from Gleennaneoreor

Declan · reviewed over 2 years ago

star star star star star

Did this train in 27° heat. Ground bone dry but obvious that it’s very boggy for the first 2/3 then shale and rocks to the top. Moderate hike and did it in under 3hr but took 20min to take in the views. This route is mostly straight up so i deviated and followed the well worn trail which joined this route for the top half of the hike. Not a difficult hike (I’m over 60) and yes I’d do it again.

Faye Breen avatar

Horn Head Loop

Fabiosa1973 · reviewed 8 months ago

star star star star star

very boggy conditions but stunning natural beauty and views.

avatar

Sliabh Liag Cliff Top Path to Trig Point

GraniteHollowtrekker75 · reviewed 8 months ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in County Donegal

What is the climate like for hiking in Ireland?

Ireland's climate is influenced by the North Atlantic Drift, which keeps temperatures mild throughout the year. Summers (June to August) are generally the warmest months, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). It's a great time for hiking, with longer daylight hours and generally drier conditions. Be prepared for occasional rainfall and pack layers to adapt to changing weather.

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.

Do I need a permit to hike in Ireland?

In Ireland, most hiking trails do not require permits for individual hikers. However, certain areas, such as national parks and nature reserves, may have specific regulations. To obtain permits or gather information about restricted areas, contact the relevant agencies or organizations. The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) manages Ireland's national parks, while local county councils oversee regional parks and trails. For more details, visit the NPWS website: https://www.npws.ie/

Is wild camping allowed in Ireland?

When it comes to wild camping in Ireland, it's important to note that it is generally not legal unless you have obtained permission from the landowner. While there may be instances where it's tolerated, it's crucial to respect private property and seek alternative options for overnight stays. It is advisable to plan your hikes in areas where there are designated campsites or seek accommodations such as hostels, B&Bs, or campgrounds. Respecting the environment, leaving no trace, and following the principles of responsible hiking are essential to preserve Ireland's beautiful landscapes for future generations to enjoy.

Are there mountain rescue services in Ireland?

In the event of an emergency while hiking in Ireland, it is crucial to contact the appropriate agencies for mountain rescue. The primary organization responsible for coordinating mountain rescues is the Irish Coast Guard. Dialing 112 or 999 will connect you to emergency services. Additionally, the Mountain Rescue Ireland (MRI) provides assistance and support. For more information, visit the Irish Coast Guard website: https://www.gov.ie/en/policy-information/eda64a-the-irish-coast-guard/

Are there dangerous plants in Ireland?

While hiking in Ireland, hikers can expect a diverse range of flora to enhance their outdoor experience. The country is renowned for its lush landscapes, featuring beautiful wildflowers, mosses, ferns, and heather. Woodlands, such as Killarney National Park and Glendalough, showcase native trees like oak, birch, and holly. Coastal areas, like the Burren, boast unique floral displays with rare orchids and vibrant coastal plants. Exploring Ireland's flora adds an extra dimension to the hiking experience.

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.

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Ireland?

When hiking in Ireland, it's important to be aware of the diverse insect and animal life you may encounter. In wooded areas, keep an eye out for midges and ticks, particularly during warmer months. Along coastal paths, you might spot seals, seabirds, and even dolphins. The Burren region is known for its unique flora and fauna, including butterflies and wild goats. Remember to respect the wildlife and their habitats, keeping a safe distance and not feeding them. If you want to learn more about the specific species you may come across, the National Parks and Wildlife Service website provides useful information. Stay curious and enjoy the wonders of nature while hiking in Ireland! Link: National Parks and Wildlife Service website

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