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Best family friendly hiking trails in County Kilkenny
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Best family friendly hiking trails in County Kilkenny

Planning a hike with the whole family? These trails are perfect for little feet and big adventures, offering fun, easy routes that鈥檒l have everyone smiling from start to finish.

Here are some great trails to explore in County Kilkenny.

Most popular trails

1

Easy

Kilkenny to Bennettsbridge Loop - Nore Valley Walk

County Kilkenny, Ireland · star 5.0 (25) · 9.6 km · Est. 1 hrs 58 min

2

Easy

Thomastown to Inistioge - Nore Valley Walk

County Kilkenny, Ireland · star 4.0 (23) · 11.7 km · Est. 2 hrs 34 min

3

Easy

Silaire Wood Loop Walk

County Kilkenny, Ireland · star 5.0 (25) · 2.6 km · Est. 36 min

4

Medium

Tory Hill Loop

County Kilkenny, Ireland · star 5.0 (25) · 4.1 km · Est. 1 hrs 4 min

5

Easy

Castlemorris Wood Loop

County Kilkenny, Ireland · star 4.0 (16) · 6.7 km · Est. 1 hrs 37 min

6

Medium

Tory Hill - Sliabh Greine Loop

County Kilkenny, Ireland · star 5.0 (25) · 4.1 km · Est. 1 hrs 2 min

7

Easy

Woodstock - Ladies Loop Walk

County Kilkenny, Ireland · star 5.0 (11) · 3.3 km · Est. 48 min

8

Easy

Jenkinstown Loop

County Kilkenny, Ireland · star 4.0 (15) · 3.3 km · Est. 44 min

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Reviews for family friendly hiking trails in County Kilkenny

Clinton Byrne avatar

Kilkenny to Bennettsbridge Loop - Nore Valley Walk

My HIKING Tracking 路 reviewed 6 months ago

star star star star star

very warm but also very challenging and enjoyable at the same time going Kilkenny to Bennettsbridge and Back to Kilkenny Castle Round Trip walk

Iain Breen avatar

Thomastown to Inistioge - Nore Valley Walk

Iain Breen 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

My trail video! Silent Hiking on a misty Irish Autumn Morning - The Nore Valley Way https://youtu.be/14z-Mtkj6Ps Overall, I really enjoyed this trail. The start section from Thomastown through the GAA club and along the river is lovely, then up through a short forest section before some road walking. Eventually you turn off the road and back into an absolutely gorgeous forest section, which is really well maintained with walkways and steps. After this, you have the gentle river walk into Inistioge. I took it really slow on the outbound part and covered it in about 4 hours; at my normal pace, it took 2 hours to return to Thomastown along the same path. Easily accessible for a day trip from Dublin via the train.

Soo Langosh JD avatar

Silaire Wood Loop Walk

TrailTrekmaster70 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Sean Doheny avatar

Tory Hill Loop

Jake 路 reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Sarah Rochford avatar

Castlemorris Wood Loop

Sarahikes_29 路 reviewed over 2 years ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hiking trails in County Kilkenny

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掳C to 20掳C (59掳F to 68掳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 脡ireann, 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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