Challenging Trails in Ireland

98 trails graded challenging, typically 15 km and up to 241.8 km. Distances, grades and route lines come from Sport Ireland's National Trails Register.

  • 98 trails
  • 15 km typical
  • 3,719 km combined
Browse another grade (3)

98 trails

One of Ireland’s most famous cycle routes, the Ring of Kerry offers spectacular mountain and coastal scenery. This challenging route…

  • 179 km
  • 2h
  • 1500 m
ChallengingCycling
Explore Trail →

Ireland’s oldest waymarked trail, the Wicklow Way takes walkers through the stunning landscapes of the ‘Garden of Ireland’. The trail…

  • 128.1 km
  • 6 days
  • 3220 m
ChallengingWalking
Explore Trail →

A spectacular circular walk around the Dingle Peninsula, one of Ireland’s most beautiful and culturally rich regions. The trail combines…

  • 162.9 km
  • 7 days
  • 2590 m
ChallengingWalking
Explore Trail →

Errigal

Donegal

Ascend the striking peak of Errigal in Donegal. This trail is just over 4km and climbs for 500m, with the…

  • 15 km
  • 2.5h
  • 600 m
ChallengingHiking
Explore Trail →

152km long-distance trail through mountains and along the coast of the Beara Peninsula. Features prehistoric standing stones, rugged coastal scenery,…

  • 241.8 km
  • 9 days
  • 5245 m
ChallengingHiking
Explore Trail →

88km long-distance trail along the spectacular Sheep’s Head Peninsula. Features loop walks, megalithic tombs, and dramatic cliff scenery. Dogs are…

  • 171.8 km
  • 6 days
  • 2190 m
ChallengingHiking
Explore Trail →

A 37.3km (23.2 miles) loop trail around the Seven Heads Peninsula, passing through villages, rugged cliffs, and shorelines from Timoleague…

  • 31 km
  • 8.8h
  • 600 m
ChallengingHiking
Explore Trail →

Scenic area with fantastic views of Dublin, featuring walking paths and mountain bike trails. Includes the famous ‘Fairy Castle’ cairn.

  • 15 km
  • 600 m
ChallengingHiking
Explore Trail →

Lugg Forest

Kildare

Family-friendly forest walk with wildlife spotting opportunities and summit viewing points. Connects with Slievethoul trail system.

  • 15 km
  • 600 m
ChallengingHiking
Explore Trail →