Beenkeragh [Binn Chaorach]

About Beenkeragh [Binn Chaorach]

Standing as Ireland's second-highest summit, this rugged peak is defined by its shattered rock and airy position. Most walkers reach it via the thrilling, narrow scramble of the Beenkeragh Ridge from Carrauntoohil. The summit offers a staggering perspective down into the Coomloughra Glen and across the Hag's Glen towards the Paps of Anu.

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Did You Know?

• •The name derives from the Irish Binn Chaorach, meaning 'Peak of the Sheep', a title that seems somewhat optimistic given the steep, shattered rock faces that dominate its upper reaches.
• •It forms the northern apex of the Coomloughra Horseshoe, a classic high-level circuit that bags the three highest peaks in Ireland: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh, and Caher.
• •The traverse between here and Carrauntoohil involves navigating the Beenkeragh Ridge, a narrow, jagged arête that requires a steady head and basic scrambling skills, especially when the Atlantic mist rolls in.
• •From the summit cairn, you can look directly down into the dark waters of Lough Coomloughra and Lough Eighter, while the Atlantic horizon is often punctured by the distant, jagged teeth of Skellig Michael.
• •Being Ireland's second-highest peak carries a certain quiet dignity; you get all of the same Atlantic weather and rugged scrambling as your famous neighbour, but significantly fewer charity hikers looking for the summit café that doesn't exist.