There’s a special sense of accomplishment in reaching the highest point of a county. “County high points” are the tallest peaks in each of Ireland’s 32 counties, offering adventurous hikers a chance to explore the country’s stunning landscapes while challenging themselves physically.
Bagging these peaks isn’t just about checking off a list — it’s about embracing the diverse beauty Ireland has to offer, from its rugged mountain ranges to rolling hills and coastal vistas.
- Why Bagging County High Points is a Must-Do for Hikers
- Ireland’s Top County High Points
- Leinster’s County High Points
- Munster’s County High Points
- Connacht’s County High Points
- Ulster’s County High Points
- Essential Tips for Hiking Ireland’s Tallest Peaks
- 1. Planning Your Hikes
- 2. Gear You’ll Need
- 3. Safety Considerations
- 1. Pacing Yourself
- 2. Capturing the Experience
- 3. Connecting with Other Hikers
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or new to the adventure, taking on Ireland’s county high points is an exciting and rewarding goal. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to start bagging those peaks
Why Bagging County High Points is a Must-Do for Hikers
Tackling the tallest peak in each county is more than just a fun challenge — it’s a unique way to see Ireland. By aiming to summit each high point, you’ll find yourself hiking through a variety of landscapes, from the dramatic mountain ranges of Kerry to the rolling hills of the Midlands.
Here’s why high point bagging is a must-do:
- Explore Ireland’s Diverse Terrain: Every peak offers a different experience, from coastal views to lush valleys.
- Set a Personal Challenge: You can work at your own pace, ticking off peaks one by one as time allows.
- Physical and Mental Benefits: Hiking regularly improves fitness and mental health, and reaching these high points provides a tangible sense of achievement.
It’s a rewarding way to get outside, discover new places, and enjoy the thrill of standing on top of each county’s highest peak.
Ireland’s Top County High Points
Leinster’s County High Points
Dublin – Kippure (757m)
- Nestled in the Wicklow Mountains, Kippure is a gentle but lengthy ascent that offers beautiful views of Dublin Bay, the city skyline, and the surrounding hills. Its slopes are mainly boggy, and the summit is marked by a TV transmitter mast. While the hike is not strenuous, waterproof gear is advised, especially after heavy rain.
- Trails-Kippure Mountain Via Eagle’s Crag, Kippure Loop
Wicklow – Lugnaquilla (925m)
The highest point in Leinster and one of the tallest peaks in Ireland, Lugnaquilla (or “Lug”) offers a challenging climb with incredible rewards. On a clear day, the summit provides sweeping views over the Irish Sea, the Wicklow Mountains, and as far as Wales. The mountain’s open plateau can become shrouded in mist quickly, so good navigation is essential.
Trails- Lugnaquilla Ridge Trail Lugnaquilla Glen Of Imall
Meath – Slieve na Calliagh (276m)
Part of the Loughcrew Hills, this site is steeped in history and dotted with ancient cairns and megalithic tombs. The walk is gentle and filled with stunning views over the plains of Meath. For those interested in Ireland’s past, this is a unique hike that combines history with natural beauty.
Trails – Loughcrew cairns Trail
Kildare – Cupidstown Hill (379m)
Though it might not be the most prominent peak, Cupidstown Hill sits on the border of Dublin and Wicklow and provides a pleasant walk through forested areas.
While there is no trail for this summit, you may be able to access it by following this waypoint on HiiKER.
Louth – Slieve Foye (589m)
Rising above Carlingford Lough, Slieve Foye is the tallest peak in the Cooley Mountains and provides stunning views of the lough and the Mourne Mountains across the water. The climb can be steep in places, but the coastal and mountain scenery makes it worthwhile.
Trails – Slieve Foye Trail Slieve Foye Loop
Offaly/Laois – Arderin (527m)
Located in the Slieve Bloom Mountains on the border with Laois, Arderin offers a quiet and scenic hike through rolling hills. It is an approachable climb with moderate gradients and vast views over the midlands of Ireland.
There is no Trail available for Arderin but a potential one can be found here https://hiiker.app/map?waypoint=781211
Westmeath – Mullaghmeen (258m)
Ireland’s lowest county high point is set in its largest beech forest. Mullaghmeen offers a gentle hike through a forested landscape, with some lovely views over the Midlands. This is a great choice for a peaceful family walk.
Trails – Mullaghmeen White Walk Mullaghmeen Red Walk Mullaghmeen Yellow Walk
Carlow/Wexford – Mount Leinster (796m)
Part of the Blackstairs Mountains, Mount Leinster offers a prominent feature of Carlow’s landscape. The ascent is moderately steep, with panoramic views over Carlow, Wexford, and beyond. The summit features a distinctive TV transmitter, and there’s a trail suitable for both hikers and mountain bikers.
Trails – Mount Leinster And Slievebawn Mount Leinster From The Nine Stones
Kilkenny – Brandon Hill (515m)
Situated near Graiguenamanagh, Brandon Hill offers varied hiking terrain from forest trails to open mountain sections. The summit rewards hikers with sweeping views over the River Barrow and the rolling landscape of Kilkenny and Wexford.
Trails – Brandon Hill Loop Brandon Hill Summit Walk
Longford – Corn Hill (278m)
Known locally as Cairn Hill, this gentle rise provides expansive views over the Longford countryside. A straightforward hike, perfect for those who enjoy a quick ascent with a rewarding vista at the top.
There are no official trails leading to Corn hill but you can find a potential path here https://hiiker.app/map?waypoint=212662
Munster’s County High Points
Kerry – Carrauntoohil (1038m)
Ireland’s tallest mountain is a must-do for serious hikers. Part of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, Carrauntoohil offers a challenging ascent with alpine-like views over the Lakes of Killarney, Dingle Peninsula, and further afield. The Devil’s Ladder is the most popular route, but several others provide different levels of challenge.
Trails-Carrauntoohil Via Devil’s Ladder Carrauntoohil Via The Heavenly Gates
Cork – Knockboy (706m)
Knockboy sits on the Cork/Kerry border and offers a wild and rugged hike through beautiful West Cork landscapes. The summit has expansive views over Bantry Bay and the distant mountains of Kerry.
Trails – Knockboy Mountains Walk Knockboy And Caoinkeen South East Top Loop
Clare – Moylussa (532m)
As the highest point in the Slieve Bernagh range, Moylussa provides a moderately challenging hike with outstanding views over Lough Derg and the Shannon. The terrain varies from woodland trails to open mountainside.
Trails – https://hiiker.app/trails/ireland/county-clare/moylussa
Tipperary/Limerick – Galtymore (919m)
Straddling the Tipperary/Limerick border, Galtymore is part of the Galtee Mountains. This iconic peak is known for its steep climb and breathtaking views over the Golden Vale. On a clear day, the summit offers a sweeping panorama of the southern countryside.
Trails – Galtymore To Cush Mountain Loop Galtymore And Lyracappul Loop
Waterford – Knockmealdown (794m)
Sitting on the Waterford/Tipperary border, Knockmealdown is part of the Knockmealdown range. The hike to the summit offers stunning vistas over the nearby counties, the Comeragh Mountains, and the sea beyond.
Trails – Knockmealdown Via Sugarloaf Hill Knockmealdown Mountains Loop
Connacht’s County High Points
Galway – Mweelrea (814m)
The tallest mountain in Connacht, Mweelrea stands as a challenging yet rewarding peak in the western part of the country. The hike offers coastal and mountain views over the wilds of Connemara, Killary Harbour, and the Atlantic Ocean.
Trails – Mweelrea Mountain Walk Mweelrea Silver Strand Trail
Mayo – Croagh Patrick (764m)
Famous as Ireland’s holy mountain and pilgrimage site, Croagh Patrick is a steep but popular climb. The summit rewards hikers with magnificent views over Clew Bay and the surrounding landscape, making the climb well worth the effort.
Trails – Croagh Patrick Heritage Trail Croagh Patrick Pilgrim Trail
Roscommon – Seltannasaggart (428m)
Located in the Arigna Mountains on the Leitrim border, this gentle hill walk provides views over Lough Allen and the surrounding countryside. The terrain is boggy in places, so waterproof footwear is recommended.
Trails – Seltannasaggart Via The Miner’s Way
Sligo/Leitrim – Truskmore (647m)
Part of the Dartry Mountains, Truskmore provides sweeping views of Ben Bulben, Sligo Bay, and the Atlantic coastline. The route is moderate, with some steeper sections near the summit.
Trails – Truskmore And Tievebaun Loop From Connacht
Ulster’s County High Points
Donegal – Errigal (751m)
The quartzite peak of Errigal is one of Ireland’s most iconic mountains, with a steep, conical shape that dominates the landscape. The ascent is short but steep, providing panoramic views over Glenveagh National Park, the Atlantic, and surrounding mountains.
Trails – Errigal Glen Trail Mackoght And An Errigal Loop
Monaghan – Slieve Beagh (380m)
This gentle, wild upland on the border with Tyrone and Fermanagh is an area of bogs and lakes. The terrain is quiet and remote, perfect for a peaceful hike with views over the surrounding countryside.
There is no direct Trail to Slieve Beagh but you could find a potential one here https://hiiker.app/map?waypoint=353368
Antrim – Trostan (550m)
The highest point in the Antrim Hills, Trostan offers coastal views over Ballycastle, Rathlin Island, and the Mull of Kintyre on a clear day. The hike is straightforward and mainly through heather-covered uplands.
Trails – Trostan Loop
Armagh – Slieve Gullion (573m)
Rising from the Ring of Gullion, Slieve Gullion is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The summit features ancient cairns and provides panoramic views over the Cooley Peninsula and Mourne Mountains.
Trails – Slieve Gullion Loop The Giant’s Lair Slieve Gullion
Down – Slieve Donard (850m)
The highest peak in Northern Ireland, Slieve Donard is a prominent feature of the Mourne Mountains. The hike is challenging but rewarding, offering views of the Irish Sea, the Isle of Man, and Scotland on a clear day.
Trails – Slieve Donard From Bloody Bridge Slieve Donard Walk Slieve Donard Via Glen River
Fermanagh/Cavan – Cuilcagh (665m)
Sharing its high point with Cavan, Cuilcagh offers a memorable hiking experience. The boardwalk trail makes the ascent enjoyable while preserving the fragile bogland.
Trails – Stairway To Heaven Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail
Derry/Tyrone – Sawel Mountain (678m)
The tallest peak in the Sperrin Mountains, Sawel Mountain offers sweeping views over the wild hills of Tyrone and Derry. The terrain is open moorland, and the ascent is relatively gentle.
Trails – Dart And Sawel Mountain Loop Sawel Mountain Walk
Essential Tips for Hiking Ireland’s Tallest Peaks
Before you lace up your boots and head out, there are a few essential tips to keep in mind to make your adventure safe and enjoyable.
1. Planning Your Hikes
Preparation is key when it comes to mountain hiking. Weather can change rapidly in Ireland, especially in the higher elevations, so it’s important to stay updated on local conditions.
Using a reliable mobile hiking app like HiiKER can ensure you have access to trail maps, route information, and updates on trail conditions. This will help you plan your hikes effectively, especially for the more challenging peaks.
2. Gear You’ll Need
Having the right gear makes all the difference in staying safe and comfortable:
- Hiking Boots: Choose boots with good ankle support and traction for rough or slippery terrain.
- Layers of Clothing: Weather can change quickly, so bring waterproofs, insulating layers, and a windproof jacket.
- Essentials: Carry snacks, water, a first-aid kit, and a headlamp in case your hike takes longer than expected.
3. Safety Considerations
Surveying the area before continuing on with a hike is an important safety stepAlways prioritize safety. Let someone know your plans, including your route and estimated return time. In remote areas, having offline maps can be a lifesaver. Make sure to take regular breaks and stay hydrated.
Making the Most of Your High Point Adventures
1. Pacing Yourself
There’s no need to rush to bag all of Ireland’s high points in a short time. Take your time and enjoy the experience, spreading your hikes out over weekends or even years. Each peak offers something new, and there’s as much joy in the journey as in reaching the summit.
2. Capturing the Experience
Consider keeping a hiking journal to document your experiences, or use a hiking app to log your hikes. Don’t forget to snap photos at each summit — not just for the memories, but as proof of your achievement!
3. Connecting with Other Hikers
Sharing your hiking experiences with the community is part of the fun. Join hiking groups or online communities to post reviews on HiiKER, share tips, and connect with fellow high point enthusiasts.
Additional Resources for Bagging County High Points
As you plan your county high point adventures, make use of these helpful resources:
- Local Hiking Clubs: Joining a hiking club can be a great way to meet like-minded people and get advice on tackling Ireland’s more challenging peaks.
- Guidebooks and Maps: While apps are incredibly useful, physical maps and guidebooks can offer extra information and backup navigation tools.
Conclusion: Embrace the Challenge and Start Your High Point Journey Today
Bagging Ireland’s county high points is more than just a hiking challenge; it’s a journey through the diverse and breathtaking landscapes of Ireland.
Whether you’re tackling the towering Carrauntoohil or the picturesque Errigal, each peak provides its own sense of accomplishment and adventure.
Remember, safety and preparation are key. So, pack your gear, download your trail on HiiKER, and get ready to discover the incredible beauty of Ireland from its highest peaks
