Prepare to hike the Carrauntoohil via The Heavenly Gates
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What to expect
This trail is not for the unexperienced. Considered to be a challenge, even by the most hardy hikers, this trail takes you up Ireland's highest Mountain - Carrauntoohill, via the Heavenly gates, along the east face of the mountain. It then joins on to a set of switchbacks that bring you to the summit.
The 360 degree view of the landscape below is spectacular. On a clear day, you can see out towards the Atlantic ocean to the west and over the many other mountain peaks, rivers and lakes in the region.
The trail then brings you back down the famous Devil's ladder trail. This is a very treacherous route and caution is advised. Once you reach the base of the ladder, you can enjoy a relatively easy hike back towards Cronin's yard.
Parking is not free at Cronin's yard. Please check prices with their website. There is a café with public toilets and showers on site.
The 360 degree view of the landscape below is spectacular. On a clear day, you can see out towards the Atlantic ocean to the west and over the many other mountain peaks, rivers and lakes in the region.
The trail then brings you back down the famous Devil's ladder trail. This is a very treacherous route and caution is advised. Once you reach the base of the ladder, you can enjoy a relatively easy hike back towards Cronin's yard.
Parking is not free at Cronin's yard. Please check prices with their website. There is a café with public toilets and showers on site.
out-and-back car-park public-bathrooms camping lake mountain-peak hill ridge photo-spots nature
Have you walked on the Carrauntoohil via The Heavenly Gates?
Trail stats
Trail length
11.9 km
Time
5 h 16 m
Total Elevation Gain
850 m
Total Elevation Loss
850 m
Avg Elevation per KM
72 m
Max Elevation
