Map & Elevation
About this Route
Croagh Patrick – known locally as 'the Reek' – rises 764 metres from the shores of Clew Bay and remains one of Ireland's most important pilgrimage sites. The classic Cosán Phádraig route from Murrisk climbs steeply through three distinct sections: a well-maintained lower path through farmland, a brutal middle scree slope that tests your resolve, and a final rocky scramble to the summit chapel. The 7.6-kilometre out-and-back route packs in 724 metres of ascent, much of it concentrated in that infamous scree section where two steps forward often means one slide back.
The reward at the top is a 360-degree panorama across Clew Bay's drowned drumlins, the Sheeffry Hills to the south, and the Nephin Beg range to the north. Weather changes fast here – you can start in sunshine at sea level and walk into cloud and horizontal rain within the hour. On Reek Sunday, the last Sunday in July, tens of thousands make the pilgrimage, some barefoot; outside of that, you'll share the path with a mix of walkers, runners training for races, and the occasional pilgrim. The descent demands full concentration, particularly on that loose scree where tired legs and gravity conspire against you.
The Reek doesn't negotiate. You either earn the summit through honest effort on that scree, or you turn back. There's a certain democracy in that.
TrailTrack
Route Waypoints
The trailhead sits at sea level with good facilities, a café, and a statue of Saint Patrick. The path begins clearly marked, climbing gradually westward through improved farmland. Early morning starts are popular to avoid crowds and catch clear summit views before the afternoon cloud rolls in.
The pleasant warm-up ends abruptly here as you reach the base of the scree slope. The next 500 metres of climbing gain roughly 300 metres in height – it's relentlessly steep and the loose quartzite stones shift underfoot. Pace yourself and use the established zigzags rather than cutting straight up.
Emerging from the scree brings relief and usually wind. The path improves briefly as you traverse across to the final summit cone. This is where you'll notice the exposure – steep drops fall away to the north and the weather often deteriorates as you gain the ridge.
The summit plateau holds a small oratory where mass is occasionally celebrated. On clear days the views extend from the Twelve Bens in Connemara to the cliffs of Achill Island. The final 15 metres involves easy scrambling over bedrock. Return by the same route, taking particular care on the scree descent where most accidents occur.
Essential Tips
The middle section's loose quartzite scree causes most of the grief. On ascent, place your weight deliberately on larger embedded stones rather than the loose surface. On descent, small controlled steps work better than long strides – trying to surf down is how people end up sliding uncontrollably into other walkers or worse.
You're climbing from sea level to 764 metres in under 4 kilometres, often moving through multiple weather systems. Pack waterproofs and an extra layer even if Murrisk looks sunny – the summit can be 10 degrees cooler with added windchill. Cloud at the top is common by midday, so early starts pay dividends for views.
Boots with proper ankle support and aggressive tread are essential, not optional. The scree punishes anything less, and twisted ankles on the descent are common among those who underestimate the terrain. Trail shoes might seem adequate at the car park but will feel like a mistake by the time you're sliding on quartzite.
The last Sunday in July sees upwards of 25,000 pilgrims on the mountain, many climbing through the night. Unless you're specifically there for the pilgrimage atmosphere, choose literally any other day – queues form on the scree, the summit becomes standing-room-only, and rescue services work overtime.