As you walk along you will see some of the plants, animals and scenery which have made Killarney famous. Many more people will walk here after you, so do not pick any flowers or collect any other specimens and please don’t litter; leave the Park as it is for others to enjoy. Dogs are permitted on all trails, but must be kept under control at all times. For conservation reasons, the removal of rocks, plants, animals, mushrooms, and other materials from the National Park is not permitted. Over a million people visit Killarney National Park each year. If every one of them picked just one flower, imagine the impact that it would have on the ecology of the area .
Click on the Trails below for more information:
- Lower Lake, Knockreer to Ross Island
- Muckross and Dinis
- Old Kenmare Road
- Ross Island
- Torc
- Upper Lake and Killegy Woods
Walking Advice
Some simple rules to follow that may make all the difference between a joyful or miserable experience.
Clothing:
- Dress to suit the changing Irish weather conditions. Be prepared for “four seasons in the one day.”
- Layers of clothing are better than one thick garment as they can be peeled off or on to suit conditions. A warm hat and gloves are advisable.
- Carry waterproofs, including jacket, trousers and a hat.
- Cotton trousers that dry quickly after a shower are better than denims.
- Keep a change of clothes for the end of the walk, especially socks.
Footwear:
Strong, waterproof boots with good grip and ankle support are necessary for moderate to very difficult walks. Comfortable walking shoes are fine for multi-access and easy routes.
Backpack:
It is essential to carry enough food and water for your walk. Using a bin liner inside your backpack will ensure your spare clothing stays dry.
General:
- Check the weather report the night before walking; https://www.met.ie/ .
- Check your walking route and that you have all your gear before leaving.
- Avoid high peaks, if bad weather seems imminent.
- Let someone know where you are going and your expected time of return. Do not do strenuous or very difficult routes alone.
- Most accidents happen when descending or returning from a journey, so always remain vigilant.
- Bring a first aid kit.
- Remember to take your time and enjoy the scenery; do not rush!
Grading Levels for Walking Trails
| Grade Title | Description |
| Multi-Access | Flat smooth trails, suitable for all users including people with reduced mobility, wheelchair users, people with vision impairment, using crutches, with a buggy, with small children, older people and so on. Normal outdoor footwear can be worn. |
| Easy | Generally flat trails with a smooth surface and some gentle slopes or shallow steps. These trails are generally suitable for family groups including children and the elderly. Normal outdoor footwear can be worn. |
| Moderate | These trails may have some climbs and may have an uneven surface where the going is rough underfoot, with some obstacles such as protruding roots, rocks, etc. The routes are appropriate for people with a moderate level of fitness and some walking experience. Specific outdoor walking footwear and clothing is recommended. |
| Strenuous | These are physically demanding trails, which will typically have some sections with steep climbs for long periods, while the going underfoot can be extremely rough including many obstacles. Suitable for users accustomed to walking on rough ground and with a high level of fitness. Specific outdoor walking footwear and clothing required. |
| Very Difficult | These routes are predominantly in remote upland areas. They will typically include steep slopes and very variable and rough underfoot conditions on sometimes indistinct trails. They may be unmarked so the use of a map and navigational skills will be required. Suitable only for very fit and competent mountain walkers with a high level of experience. Specific outdoor walking footwear and clothing required. |
