Why Hike Croagh Patrick in Ireland

June to

September

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About the Route

WHY TREK IT?

Croagh Patrick is a mountain only 2,500 feet tall, but it draws out 100 thousand people each year to climb it. The reason – beyond the beauty and fun of it – is that it’s Ireland’s holiest mountain and climbing it is said to honor Saint Patrick. The journey takes 1 to 2 hours each way, as it’s steep and rocky in parts, making for a slow descent. From the top, you’ll have beautiful views of Clew Bay and the surrounding countryside, which is County Mayo, a short 5 miles from Westport.

“The Reek, as the locals call it, is beautifully situated on the Wild Atlantic Way on the west of Ireland.”

- Ciaran Vipond

Croagh Patrick is nicknamed ‘The Reek’ and each year there is a ‘Reek Week,’ which is a week-long celebration culminating in pilgrims climbing Croagh Patrick on the last Sunday of July. As many as 20 thousand people will climb the mountain on that single Sunday, meaning it’s a bit crowded – to say the least. Those who want to signal penance and atonement with their efforts can climb barefoot, which is said to have the added benefit of being ‘good for the soul.’