Killarney is one of the finest walking bases in Ireland. From the edge of the town you can step onto well made paths through ancient woodland, climb to waterfalls and viewpoints, follow old roads through the hills, or tackle the highest mountain in the country. This guide sorts the walks by effort, so that you can choose what fits your fitness, your time and the weather.
Easy walks: lakes, woods and ruins
The simplest and most rewarding introduction is the walk from the town centre through Knockreer to Ross Castle, about forty minutes each way on flat paths. From the castle you can follow the lake shore and the Ross Island paths for a longer loop. In Muckross, the lake loop is around fifteen kilometres on flat ground, popular with walkers and cyclists, and it can be shortened by taking the path from Muckross House to Muckross Abbey and back. These walks are suitable for most ages and abilities, with good surfaces and plenty of places to rest and eat.
Moderate walks: waterfalls and viewpoints
Torc Waterfall is reached by a short path from the car park, and you can continue up the steps to the viewpoint over the lakes and woods. A longer walk follows the woodland trail from the waterfall towards Muckross, or up onto the Old Kenmare Road, a historic track that runs through the hills towards Kenmare and gives wide views over the Upper Lake. Ladies View is a viewpoint rather than a walk, but the paths around it and the nearby high ground reward a short stroll. These routes involve some climbing, uneven ground and wet steps, so wear proper footwear.
Harder walks: the Gap and the Reeks
The Gap of Dunloe is an eleven kilometre glacial pass between the MacGillycuddy's Reeks and Purple Mountain, and walking it is one of the great Kerry days out. The road is public but narrow, shared with jaunting cars and a few vehicles, and the usual plan is to walk from one end, then finish by boat across the lakes. It takes several hours and the weather can be fierce, so allow a full day and pack waterproofs. Beyond the Gap, the Hag's Glen and Lough Callee give a taste of the high Reeks without a full summit attempt, while guided hill walks on Torc Mountain and other peaks offer views over the whole lake district.
The big one: Carrauntoohil
At 1,038 metres, Carrauntoohil is the highest mountain in Ireland, and climbing it is a serious day of seven to eight hours. The standard route up the Devil's Ladder is steep and eroded, and there are safer and more scenic alternatives that a local guide will choose according to conditions. Go with a guide unless you have real mountain experience, wear proper boots and carry waterproofs, warm layers, food and water. Be prepared to turn back if visibility drops, because the mountain is no place for pride. The best months are late spring to early autumn, and winter ascents need specialist skills and equipment.
What to wear and carry
In any season, wear waterproof walking shoes or boots with good grip, as even the easy paths can be muddy. Carry a waterproof jacket, a warm layer, a hat and gloves for higher ground, water and snacks. Mobile signal is patchy in the woods and the mountains, so download a map before you set out and tell someone your route. Midge repellent helps in summer, and a small first aid kit is sensible on longer walks. Take care near water and on wet steps, and keep to marked paths to protect the woodland.
Wildlife and nature
The national park is home to Ireland's only native herd of red deer, and walkers often see them in the early morning in the woods around Knockreer and Muckross. The woods are rich in mosses, ferns and lichens thanks to the damp air, and the lakes have a range of water birds. Give animals plenty of space, do not feed them, and keep dogs under control, since the park has livestock and wildlife.
Planning your days
For a three day walking trip, spend the first day on the lakes and woods, the second on Muckross, the abbey and Torc, and the third on the Gap of Dunloe or a guided hill walk. Always check the forecast the evening before and keep a wet weather plan, such as Muckross House or a spa afternoon, in reserve. A hotel close to the park, such as Muckross Park Hotel and Spa or The Lake Hotel Killarney, lets you start walking from the door, and a post walk soak in a spa is a fine reward.
