Best river hiking trails in Ireland
Go with the flow on these riverside adventures! From gentle streams to powerful rapids, these trails offer constant companionship with the sound of rushing water by your side.
Here are some great trails to explore in Ireland.
Most popular trails
Reviews for river hiking trails in Ireland
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
Bobbie · reviewed almost 4 years ago
Parked car in Ballygannon Woods & joined trail from there.
Carrauntoohil via O'Sheas Gully
AMellal · reviewed about 2 months ago
hard route, scramble, Sharp navigation skills needed on a foggy day
ThomasKelly · reviewed 2 months ago
Good parking facilities at the start of the hike. It's a very easy trail to follow up to the top. You can take some smaller trail which all kind of join up at parts. Lovely views of Lough Derg.
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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