Map & Elevation
About this Route
This out-and-back follows the constructed path from the small car park beside the R251 to Errigal's 751 m summit. The uploaded GPX measures 5.4 km, gains 490 m and gives a walking-time estimate of 1 hour 54 minutes. The local mountain guidance suggests allowing 2–3 hours, which is sensible once you include stops and a careful descent.
The first part crosses blanket bog on the surfaced path built to protect the damaged peat. Stay on it even if the ground alongside looks dry. The line then turns uphill beside the stream and becomes steeper, with stone pitching and steps taking you onto Errigal's pale quartzite shoulder. Higher up, the surface is rougher and looser, and the final approach narrows as it reaches the summit ridge.
The summit area is small and exposed. Wind can make the last few minutes feel much more serious than the height alone suggests, so there is nothing wrong with turning round below the ridge if balance or visibility is poor. In clear weather the views take in Dunlewey, the Poisoned Glen, Mackoght and the Donegal coast.
Return by exactly the same route. The stonework can be slippery when wet, and loose quartzite needs a steady pace on the way down. Parking is limited, so an early start is useful on fine weekends. Carry waterproofs, food, water and a separate navigation backup; the built path is clear in good conditions, but cloud can quickly hide the upper mountain.
Please use the constructed path from the car park to the summit.
Errigal Mountain, based on Mountaineering Ireland guidance
Route Waypoints
Start at the small roadside car park and take the constructed path north-west across the bog. Do not follow older trods through the peat.
Keep to the gravel and stone surface as it bends away from the road. This section was built to protect the surrounding blanket bog.
Follow the built line beside the watercourse. Check behind you here so the turn back towards the car park is familiar for the descent.
The climb becomes more sustained. Stay on the pitched path and give descending walkers room where the steps narrow.
The ground becomes rougher and looser above the main stonework. Follow the worn line up the broad shoulder rather than cutting across the scree.
Reach the short, narrow ridge below the top. Strong crosswinds and cloud can make this section awkward; turn back if you are not comfortable.
The 751 m summit is exposed and has little room in busy weather. Take care near the steep ground and begin the return along the same ridge.
Retrace the quartzite shoulder, stone steps and constructed bog path. The descent is steep enough to make loose stones and wet slabs worth watching.
Essential Tips
The lower path is there to protect badly eroded blanket bog. Do not follow old lines or step off the surface to overtake unless it is necessary for safety.
The GPX estimate is under two hours, but the local guidance says 2–3 hours. Leave time for the steep descent, summit traffic and changing weather.
The last section is narrow and exposed to crosswinds. If cloud or gusts make balance uncertain, turn round before the ridge.
Stone steps and loose quartzite can be slippery on the descent. Wear footwear with good grip and carry waterproofs plus a separate navigation backup.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to climb Errigal?
Plan for 2–3 hours total. The walking time is estimated at just under 2 hours, but you'll need extra time for the steep descent, stops at the summit, and navigating the narrow ridge if it's busy or windy.
Is Errigal suitable for beginners?
It depends on your fitness and comfort with heights. The route is well-constructed with stone steps, but it's graded as strenuous with 490 m of ascent, and the final summit ridge is narrow and exposed to crosswinds. Turn back if you're not comfortable with the conditions.
Where do you park for Errigal?
There's a small car park beside the R251 road. Parking is limited, so arrive early on fine weekends to get a spot.