Best difficult hiking trails in County Wicklow
Got your game face on? These difficult trails are designed for hikers who are looking for a serious adventure...
Here are some great trails to explore in County Wicklow.
Most popular trails
Reviews for hiking trails in County Wicklow
hiikerCEOPaul · reviewed almost 3 years ago
Great trek, very cloudy at the top and very cold!! Show broke as we arrived at the last road section. Missed the very couple of KMs in recording.
Lough Ouler and Tonelagee Loop
Hannah · reviewed almost 3 years ago
Definitely helps to have hiking boots, was very muddy underfoot for much of the trail. My poor friend fell several times in a pair of regular runners. Took us about 4 hours, with a 20 min lunch stop and we did a good bit of the start through thick undergrowth which I'm sure added a few minutes. Saw plenty of people with dogs on the trail. We did the trail in the opposite direction than indicated and enjoyed the riverside walk at the end, which is a nice relaxing way to end the hike
Lugnaquilla and Arts Lough Circular
ThomasKelly · reviewed 2 months ago
It's a good hike even if there is occasional low clouds, the trails are fairly easy to follow. When you are descending and come to a sign saying that the zig zag trail is closed (due to an assault on a farmer) take the trail to the left of the sign( this takes you down the Arts Lough descent). The Arts Lough route is not closed to anyone.
Luggala from Ballinastoe Woods
HikerSíla · reviewed 16 days ago
So great! Maybe my new fave. Calves were smokin on the ascent and the approach to summit was very mucky - but views were spectacular throughout.
Frequently asked questions
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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