Climbing Croagh Patrick in Co. Mayo, Ireland

We did it! We summited Croagh Patrick and the rewards were unbelievable!

Climbing Croagh Patrick, located near Westport in County Mayo, Ireland, is a challenging section of nature, steeped in history, Catholicism and nature’s beauty.

“It’s hard not be moved by the courage St Patrick showed by coming here to battle what he regarded as pagan darkness and to bring the Irish into the light of Christianity.” – Mayo.ie

Here’s what the experience was like for us on our own summit of Croagh Patrick.

About Croagh Patrick

• Height: 764 meters (2,507 feet).
• Significance: Known as Ireland’s “Holy Mountain,” Croagh Patrick is a major pilgrimage site, where Saint Patrick is said to have fasted for 40 days in 441 AD.
• Pilgrimage Day: The last Sunday in July, known as Reek Sunday, sees literally housands of pilgrims ascend the mountain, some make the climb barefoot, as a traditional act of penance.

The Climb

1. Starting Point
   • The climb begins at the Murrisk Car Park, where there’s a visitor center, gift shop, and restrooms. Arrive early to get the best parking. Later you will need to find street parking which might require a long walk to the entrance.
2. The Trail
   • The main path is about 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) round trip.
   • It takes roughly 3-4 hours (2 hours up, 1-2 hours down), depending on fitness level and weather conditions. We took made it in 2 hours with multiple stops on our first attempt.
3. The Challenge
   • Moderate to strenuous. The trail is well maintained but remains rocky and steep, particularly in the final stretch, with loose slate and waterways making footing tricky. Don’t get too comfortable going down either. Watch your step!
   • While there are bathrooms along the path, they’re never close by when you need one. So take advantage of the opportunity when you see one.
   • There are several First Aid tents along the path staffed by skilled emergency technicians.
4. Gear up!
   • Wear sturdy hiking boots with good grip.
   • Bring weather-appropriate clothing, as conditions can change rapidly.
   • Pack water, snacks, and a walking stick (can help with balance).

Views and Experience

• The summit at its cone-shaped peak offers absolutely stunning panoramic views of Clew Bay, dotted with its 365 emerald islands along with the velvety-green surrounding countryside. You begin to understand why Hollywood loves an Irish backdrop.
• At the top, you’ll find a small chapel, where mass is often held on pilgrimage days. The day we summited, we discovered that the Priest who presided over the Mass was my wife’s soccer coach back at Maynooth University. So it was a very special day indeed and shared great conversation with the Priest.

Tips for Your Climb

1. Check the Weather: It can be windy, rainy, or foggy, which impacts visibility and your safety.
2. Start Early: Morning climbs avoid potential crowds and offer the best chance for clear views.
3. Fitness Level: While manageable for most, preparation helps, especially if you’re new to hiking.

Along our path we saw everything from young families to grandparents and Boy Scouts making their way up and down the mountain. Many stopping for a picnic prior to the summit. You may be surprised to find there were pilgrims making the hike barefoot. So while it is a challenge and a good hike, it’s not crazy difficult. We do recommend keeping your focus on your hike at all times until you reach the parking lot because the loose material and waterways can be slippery.

After our climb, it was a warm July day and we found an outdoor table in the beer garden of Campbell’s pub. Based on its location you’d imagine Campbell’s pub with visitors from around the world has some incredible history(and they do!). We felt a sense of comradery, nestled amongst our fellow pilgrims. Everyone, despite their weariness were in great form and extending the spirit of kindness at every opportunity. You can reward yourself as we did by ordering a pint of Guinness or Kilkenny and something delicious from the menu to quell your hunger. Surprisingly for such a busy pub, we found the food and service turnaround time to be excellent. Lots of young people on staff and they seemed to really enjoy the crowds.

Climbing Croagh Patrick is an unbelievable blend of physical challenge, natural beauty, and spiritual history. Almost everyone who lives in Ireland will make this hike more than once and some go once every month. Have a safe and enjoyable climb!