Carrauntoohil Ireland (1,038 metres)

[yogi]

During a recent trip to Ireland one goal was to climb Carrauntoohil, the highest mountain in Ireland at just over 3400'. The entire climb is exposed and starts with a nice walk through sheep pastures surrounded by jagged, rocky peaks. There are a couple beautiful ponds near the base fed by waterfalls that seem to just pop out of the side of the mountain. After a mile and a half or so of sheep pastures the trail begins to ascend to the base of a steep, rocky, loose slide. The slide ascends for a mile or so and reminded me of the North Slide of Trypyrimid only with small, loose rocks and a constant stream runnning down the trail. At the top of the slide there are amazing views of Co Kerry and the Magillycuddy Reeks Mt's. From here the terrain and view reminded me of being above tree line in the Presidents, with the summit cone looming much as the cone of Washington does. Another mile or so of rocky switchbacks brings you to the summit with a large cross and small stone roof-less shelter. Amazing views in all directions all the way to the ocean. A picture perfect day in rare clear, 60 deg. F weather. Highly recommended!

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[Kevin Rooney]

Thanks for the TR and photos. Am hoping to spend a couple of weeks hiking in Ireland next May.

Whets my imagination!

 

[Woody]

Yogi,
I'm glad you had the chance to climb Carrauntoohil. I was lucky enough to have the opportunity back in 2004. It's a really fun hike/climb up the "Devil's Ladder". It was one of the highlights of my trip to Ireland!

 

[Gillian]

Nice pics! Ferris and I were there in July but you had better weather it looks like. That whole ridgeline is really beautiful and would make for a great traverse. If I wasn't so chicken I'd love to hike all of it but there are a few no fall areas, which most people would have no problem with, like this guy...


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wXiWND69if8&feature=related


but I'd freak out