MacGillycuddy's Reeks, Kerry · Ireland
Carrauntoohil via Devil's Ladder
Ireland's highest peak (1039m). The Devil's Ladder is the classic route — loose scree gully, exposed above.
Updated August 23, 2026
Not a beginner's day out. The Ladder itself is loose and prone to rockfall; go early to avoid parties above you. Weather turns fast — check MWIS forecast before committing. Hire a guide if you've never done a Scottish Munro-grade day.
Best months: May-September (dry, clear)
Trailhead / base town: Killarney
Nearest airport: KIR
Waymarked: No — navigation skills required
Waypoint map — 6 points
Topographic base map + trail polyline. Click each waypoint for the trail-note.
Elevation profile
Estimated — download the GPX for definitive elevation data on device.
800m
Peak gain
Profile is an approximation from the trail's published ascent metres + typical mountain-profile shape. Real per-metre elevation available in the GPX download opened on Garmin, Gaia, Komoot, or Apple Watch.
Community reviews
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Trail waypoints in order
- 1
Cronin's Yard (Start)
- 2
Hag's Glen
- 3
Base of Devil's Ladder
- 4
Top of Devil's Ladder
- 5
Carrauntoohil Summit (1039m)
Iron cross summit marker
- 6
Cronin's Yard (Finish)
Getting out of Killarney (KIR)
Skip the taxi rank and lock in your fare before you land.
Pre-book a fixed-price transfer
Our pickDriver waits at arrivals with your name, tracks your flight, and the price you see is the price you pay. English-speaking, fixed price. No surge, no haggling at 2am.
Check transfer pricesRenting a car instead? Compare rentals with free cancellation.Carrauntoohil via Devil's Ladder — frequently asked
How long does the Carrauntoohil via Devil's Ladder take to complete?
6-8 hours (day hike) for the full 12km (1000m total ascent). Difficulty grade: challenging.
Is the Carrauntoohil via Devil's Ladder waymarked?
No — this is a navigation-required route. Bring an OS 1:50,000 sheet + compass, know how to use them, and check the MWIS forecast before you start. Not for first-time hillwalkers alone.
When is the best time of year for the Carrauntoohil via Devil's Ladder?
May-September (dry, clear). Outside these months conditions can turn technical (mud, mist, short daylight) and the value-per-effort drops sharply.
Where should I base myself for the Carrauntoohil via Devil's Ladder?
Killarney — the trailhead is here and it's the natural place to sleep before + after. Fly into KIR, pre-book airport transfer, and pick a base hotel with parking if you're doing multiple sections.
Do I need a permit for the Carrauntoohil via Devil's Ladder?
No permit required — the trail crosses public land, National Parks land, or is a formally waymarked national trail with open access. Respect any farm-stile signs and leave gates as you found them.