Ireland's most sacred mountain and one of its most rewarding hikes. The rocky quartzite ascent requires care near the summit, but the views over Clew Bay with its hundreds of islands are incomparable.
Croagh Patrick rises above Clew Bay in County Mayo and begins at the Murrisk car park on the R335 coast road, roughly 8km from Westport town; parking is free and no permit is needed to walk the mountain. The out-and-back route covers 7.5km and climbs 764m to the quartzite summit, taking most walkers three to four hours round trip. The lower third follows a broad grassy track past the statue of St Patrick at the trailhead, climbing steadily onto open moorland with wide views back over Clew Bay's scattering of drumlin islands. The middle section steepens across bare rock and gravel with little shade anywhere on the mountain, so sun and wind exposure are constant concerns. The final third is the hardest part: a loose quartzite scree cone that shifts underfoot on the way up and is notoriously slippery on the descent, requiring careful foot placement and, in wet or windy weather, sturdy boots with good ankle support. The small whitewashed chapel at the 764m summit, rebuilt in 1905, marks the top, alongside the site associated with St Patrick's 40-day fast in 441 AD; the mountain draws large pilgrim crowds, some walking barefoot, on Reek Sunday, the last Sunday in July. There are no water sources or shelters anywhere on the route, so hikers should carry all the water and food they need. Walkers uncertain about the final scree section can turn around at the col below the summit cone and still enjoy expansive views over the bay without tackling the loosest ground.
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Westport, County Mayo
- Best season
- May to September for the most stable weather
Highlights
- Panoramic views of Clew Bay
- Summit chapel
- Pilgrim tradition on last Sunday of July
Tips for visiting
- Wear sturdy boots with ankle support for the loose scree on the upper third of the climb
- Carry all drinking water; there are no springs or refreshment points on the mountain
- Avoid Reek Sunday (last Sunday in July) if seeking a quiet walk, as thousands of pilgrims climb that day
- Trekking poles help considerably with balance on the descent over shifting scree
- Check weather before setting out, as the summit is frequently shrouded in cloud and wind-exposed
When to visit
Early morning starts avoid the strongest winds and give the best chance of clear summit views; weekdays outside Reek Sunday in late July are quietest.
Accessibility
The route is not wheelchair- or stroller-accessible; the terrain is uneven from the outset and becomes a steep scree scramble in the upper section.
Frequently asked questions
How difficult is the Croagh Patrick hike?
It is a strenuous half-day climb; the lower slopes are a straightforward walk, but the final quartzite scree section is steep and loose, demanding care and reasonable fitness.
Is there a fee to climb Croagh Patrick?
No fee or permit is required; parking at the Murrisk trailhead is free.
Do I need hiking boots?
Yes, sturdy boots with good grip and ankle support are strongly advised because of the loose scree near the summit.
Is there anywhere to buy food or water on the mountain?
No, there are no shops, cafes, or water sources on the route, so all supplies must be carried.