Carrantuohill Climbing Notes
Carrantuohill climbing notes shared by Mountain-Forecast users
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(NOTE: Texts may be edited by our content team for the purposes of ensuring accurate and relevant information)
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July 17, 2025
Little Big Adventures Ireland from Ireland
I have climbed here for many years both as a guide and as just friends. I have noted the traditional “Devils ladder” route becoming increasingly eroded over the last 20 or so years. In adverse weather conditions this mountain can pose a serious challenge and there are multiple mountain rescue call outs on a weekly basis. If you are taking on this mountain please come equipped with rain gear, boots and proper clothing. Please be aware that temperatures on the summit will be significantly cooler than at the start point. Know how to navigate in poor visibility and if in doubt consider a guided hike with Kerry climbing who run almost daily guided hikes up the mountain.
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July 25, 2015
Terry from Ireland
I climbed Carrantuohill for the first time on the 22nd July, 2015 (last week).
I can say with some authority based on outdoor experience that it is an understated mountain if not known. I was fortunate to meet with a lovely group of family members, the lead member being from Tralee, who took me along with them. Their patience and graciousness made for an unforgettable experience and wonderful day.
My advice to anybody who has not climbed the mountain, regardless of experience, is to go with somebody who knows the conditions and terrain the first time.
Many experienced climbers have made a central mistake: many assume because the mountain height is below many European continental and world peaks that it is easy. The fact is that no two days are the same on any Irish mountain landscape. Conditions can change rapidly on Carrantuohill.
Bear in mind that the Irish climate is maritime, between tropical and northern latitudes. Micro climates and changes in wind direction and temperature can disorientate even experienced climbers.
Do it right and it is a totally unforgettable experience.
Thanks again to those lovely people with whom I shared an unforgettable experience.
Terry
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April 29, 2015
martina from Ireland
We climbed in Sept 2014 as a small group of amateur walkers.
We all enjoyed and in total it took us over 4 hours to complete our climb up and down and we stopped for a lunch at the top of the Devil's Ladder on our way back down. It was cold at the last stage just before the summit so wear a hat but light clothing is good with a good rain jacket sun lotion and good footwear is advisable. Bring water and a walking stick just got in my way I didn't need it.
Most of all plan your trip well make sure someone knows the route you plan to take, don't go alone have your map packed for the the summit and enjoy.
(NOTE: Texts may be edited by our content team for the purposes of ensuring accurate and relevant information)
Little Big Adventures Ireland from Ireland
I have climbed here for many years both as a guide and as just friends. I have noted the traditional “Devils ladder” route becoming increasingly eroded over the last 20 or so years. In adverse weather conditions this mountain can pose a serious challenge and there are multiple mountain rescue call outs on a weekly basis. If you are taking on this mountain please come equipped with rain gear, boots and proper clothing. Please be aware that temperatures on the summit will be significantly cooler than at the start point. Know how to navigate in poor visibility and if in doubt consider a guided hike with Kerry climbing who run almost daily guided hikes up the mountain.
Terry from Ireland
I climbed Carrantuohill for the first time on the 22nd July, 2015 (last week).
I can say with some authority based on outdoor experience that it is an understated mountain if not known. I was fortunate to meet with a lovely group of family members, the lead member being from Tralee, who took me along with them. Their patience and graciousness made for an unforgettable experience and wonderful day.
My advice to anybody who has not climbed the mountain, regardless of experience, is to go with somebody who knows the conditions and terrain the first time.
Many experienced climbers have made a central mistake: many assume because the mountain height is below many European continental and world peaks that it is easy. The fact is that no two days are the same on any Irish mountain landscape. Conditions can change rapidly on Carrantuohill.
Bear in mind that the Irish climate is maritime, between tropical and northern latitudes. Micro climates and changes in wind direction and temperature can disorientate even experienced climbers.
Do it right and it is a totally unforgettable experience.
Thanks again to those lovely people with whom I shared an unforgettable experience.
Terry
martina from Ireland
We climbed in Sept 2014 as a small group of amateur walkers.
We all enjoyed and in total it took us over 4 hours to complete our climb up and down and we stopped for a lunch at the top of the Devil's Ladder on our way back down. It was cold at the last stage just before the summit so wear a hat but light clothing is good with a good rain jacket sun lotion and good footwear is advisable. Bring water and a walking stick just got in my way I didn't need it.
Most of all plan your trip well make sure someone knows the route you plan to take, don't go alone have your map packed for the the summit and enjoy.
