27 Hiking In Donegal Spots For Your Irish Adventure In 2023!

There’s no doubt about it – hiking in Donegal is one of the most rewarding and exciting activities that you can do when you’re on a trip to Northern Ireland. 

Not only does it give you a sense of achievement when you reach the summit, but it also provides a great opportunity to explore some of the world’s most beautiful landscapes. 

From the wild and rugged coastline to the majestic Glenveagh National Park, there are endless opportunities for exploration, making it one of the best destinations for walking holidays in Donegal.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner,  there’s sure to be a route that’s perfect for your Irish adventure;

In this blog post, we’ll be discussing the best 27 spots you can choose for your hiking trip in Donegal that are sure to leave you spellbound. So what are you waiting for? 

• The Best Place For Hiking In Donegal (Easy): Lough Eske Nature Loop Trail
• The Best Place For Hiking In Donegal (Moderate): Slieve League
• The Best Place For Hiking In Donegal (Advanced): Mount Errigal

27 Best Hiking Trails In Donegal Ireland 

Best Places For Hiking In Donegal (Level: Beginner-friendly)

1. Rossnowlagh And Manor House Circular

2. Rougey Walk (Fairy Bridges)

3. Slieve League To Cnoc Ramhar

4. Lough Eske Nature Loop Trail

5. Lough Veagh

6. Horn Head

7. Ards Forest And County Donegal Circular

8. Malin Head

9. Binnion Hill Circular 

Best Places For Hiking In Donegal (Level: Moderate)

10. Crockrawer Trail

11. Slieve League

12. Glemcolumbkillle Cliff Tour

13. Errigal Loop

14. Muckish Mountain

15. Ards Friary – Ards Forest Park Loop

16. Saint Colmcille’s Birthplace To Glenveagh Castle

17. Urris Lakes Loop 

18. Inishowen Head Loop

Best Places For Hiking In Donegal (Level: Advanced)

19. Atlantic Way Loop

20. Teelin and Slieve League Circular

21. Mount Errigal

22. Slieve League Cliffs Aillte Sliabh

23. Seven Sisters

24. Muckish Mountain

25. Kinnagoe Loop

26. Malin And Slievebane Circular

27. Letterkenny And Ailt n Chorrain Circular

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27 Adventurous Places For Hiking In Donegal 

Yes, you read that right! We have 27 Donegal hiking trails that cover all of Donegal’s scenic mountainous terrain. 

To make it easy for you, here’s our Donegal hiking map that’s labeled based on difficulty level:

• Light green: Beginner-friendly hiking trails
• Green: Moderate-level hiking trails
• Dark green: Advanced hiking trails

Best Places For Hiking In Donegal (Level: Beginner-friendly)

There are plenty of easy hiking trails in Donegal that can leave you breathless (without getting any heart attacks). Without wasting any time, here are some of the best walks in Donegal to warm up!

So, here are 9 of the most beginner-friendly places to walk in Donegal.

1. Rossnowlagh And Manor House Circular

Let’s start with one of the easiest loop walks Donegal; the Rossnowlagh and Manor House loop. 

For those who haven’t hiked in a while but wish to see the breathtaking view overlooking Donegal Bay, you should definitely consider using this path as it is one of the best beginner-friendly coastal walking trails in Donegal.

You will lightly hike up towards Manor House Holiday Park, which is a holiday caravan park near Rossnowlagh Beach.

What you need to know about this hiking trail:

• Distance: 9.2 km /5.7 miles (loop)
• Estimated Hiking Duration: 2 hours
• Pet/Family-friendly: Yes!
• Elevation gain: 109 meters

2. Rougey Cliff Walk (Fairy Bridges)

Here’s another breathtaking pre-hiking spot to try before facing more adventurous hiking trails Donegal which is the Rougey Cliff Walk.

You do need to briefly hike up before you get to enjoy the spectacular views of the Bundoran coastline and stroll along this beautiful cliff path. Be sure to also explore the famous Fairy Bridges, the magical Wishing Chair, and WW2’s Halifax Crash memorial!

Once you are done with hiking, be sure to take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of Bundoran Beach or take your loved one to Bundoran’s nearest amusement park: Bundoran Adventure Park. 

This is certainly one of the best hikes in Donegal that is family-friendly!

What you need to know about this hiking trail:

• Distance: 5 km / 3 miles (one way)
• Estimated Hiking Duration: 1 hour 7 minutes
• Pet/Family-friendly: Yes!
• Elevation gain: 67 meters

3. Slieve League To Cnoc Ramhar

If you are near the iconic Slieve League, be sure to try this one-way 4.7 km (2.9 miles) hiking trail from Slieve League To Cnoc Ramhar , which is located near Gleann Cholm Cille in County Donegal. 

Do expect to see a lot of other folks out when hiking, as this is one of the popular hiking places in Donegal. The months of April through September are ideal for hiking this trek as the weather is nice with long daylight hours.

This iconic Donegal hiking trail begins near Slieve League’s parking lot and you will gradually climb up to Cnoc Ramhar. Hiking boots are advisable as the terrain can get uneven at times. 

What you need to know about this hiking trail:

• Distance: 4.7 km / 2.9 miles (one way)
• Estimated Hiking Duration: 2 hours 2 minutes
• Pet/Family-friendly: Yes!
• Elevation gain: 346 meters

4. Lough Eske Nature Loop Trail

With excellent views of the lake, this 5.6 km (3.4 miles) Lough Eske Nature Loop has flat terrain and is ideal for people of all ages and fitness levels, making it one of the best places to hike in Donegal with kids as well as wheel-chair friendly.

If you are unsure of your path, you can always refer to this Donegal walks map.  What we also like about this place is that you can also interchange different hiking paths within Lough Eske.

What you need to know about this hiking trail:

• Distance: 5.6 km / 3.4 miles (loop)
• Estimated Hiking Duration: 1 hour 38 minutes
• Pet/Family-friendly: Yes!
• Elevation gain: 186 meters

5. Lough Veagh

If you are near Termon, Donegal, you may try this slightly longer hiking trail that takes 2 hours to finish. This 10 km (6.2 miles) trail has plenty of natural wildlife that you will see during your hikes, such as otters, fish, unique floral plantations, and many more.

If you are a nature lover, then Lough Veagh‘s hiking trails with views of the lake’s cliffs and hilltops are the perfect choice for you (especially if you are new to hiking but enjoy scenic natural views). 

You can also bring your pet along, as all of the parks here are dog-friendly!

After a few hours of hiking Donegal, be sure to bring along your fishing gear and fishing license, as there is also a fishing season in Lough Veagh (from April until September). 

What you need to know about this hiking trail:

• Distance: 10 km/ 6.2 miles (one way)
• Estimated Hiking Duration: 2 hours 16 minutes
• Pet/Family-friendly: Yes!
• Elevation gain: 146 meters

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6. Horn Head

For those who are looking for the shortest scenic looped walks Donegal, then you certainly have to consider Horn Head.

This 2.6 km (1.6 miles) takes only 54 minutes to do this simple yet beautiful hiking coastal route. So, if you hate crowds and prefer to do a quick hike on your own, then this is the perfect hiking spot for you!

What you need to know about this hiking trail:

• Distance: 2.6 km / 1.6 miles (loop)
• Estimated Hiking Duration: 54 minutes
• Pet/Family-friendly: Yes!
• Elevation gain: 130 meters

7. Ards Forest And County Donegal Circular

When you visit Donegal, you surely must visit Ards Forest Park as it is one of the best natural landmarks in Donegal. 

There are plenty of hiking trails available within this park, but those who are just warming up to hiking should consider trying this 3.5 km (2.2 miles) looped trail. 

In most cases, it is regarded as a beginner-friendly hiking path, and it can be completed within an hour. 

This trail is also fantastic for a nature walk, as well as fishing and watching birds, making it on the list as one of the best beginner-friendly Donegal hiking trails you can find!

What you need to know about this hiking trail:

• Distance: 3.5 km / 2.2 miles (loop)
• Estimated Hiking Duration: 1 hour 2 minutes
• Pet/Family-friendly: Yes!
• Elevation gain: 117 meters

8. Malin Head

If you are a Star Wars fan who also loves hiking, then this is the perfect hiking spot for you (as Malin Head was the filming location of Star Wars VIII: The Last Jedi!)

This 3.5 km (2.2 miles) only takes about 56 minutes to complete, making it one of the shortest yet most scenic walks Donegal that gives stunning coastal views. 

This hiking trail can be found near Ardmalin. 

However, it has been noted that there are several areas that are quite restricted as they are privately-owned lands. So, please be careful during this hike!

What you need to know about this hiking trail:

• Distance: 3.5 km / 2.2 miles (one-way)
• Estimated Hiking Duration: 56 minutes
• Pet/Family-friendly: Not allowed
• Elevation gain: 83 meters

9. Binnion Hill Circular 

This 5.3 km (3.2 miles)  looped hiking trail can be found near Clonmany, County Donegal. So far, Binnion Hill Circular is one of the few parks that has an entry fee ($5).

It may look like a short trail, but those who have taken this hiking trail have shared that it took them almost 2 hours to complete. 

This trail is slightly more difficult as it has a steep incline and a few historical landmarks you can view during your hike, such as Mass Rock, Mullagh village, and even stone walls on the hill. 

Do note that the first half of the walk takes you on a breathtaking view of the Irish coastline before returning back into the forest terrain, which can get muddy and full of bugs, especially during summer.

What you need to know about this hiking trail:

• Distance: 5.3 km / 3.2 miles (loop)
• Estimated Hiking Duration: 1 hour 43 minutes
• Pet/Family-friendly: Yes!
• Elevation gain: 228 meters

Best Places For Hiking In Donegal (Level: Moderate)

If you have already been through these first 9 hiking trails before and find them to be a bit too easy for you, perhaps you can consider hiking through these 9  moderate-level trails instead. 

10. Crockrawer Trail

Explore this 8.2 km (5 miles) hiking Crockrawer trail that is located near Gleann Cholm Cille, County Donegal, which is part of the iconic Slieve League.

You can park for free in the lower parking lot, but you’ll have to walk an additional 2 miles to reach the viewpoint. This is definitely a good moderate hiking path to start! 

Once you have reached the summit of Slieve League, be sure to bask yourself in this majestic panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean.

What you need to know about this hiking trail:

• Distance: 8.2km / 5 miles (one way)
• Estimated Hiking Duration: 3 hours 3 minutes
• Pet/Family-friendly: Yes!
• Elevation gain: 458 meters

11. Slieve League

If you want to get in some heart-pumping hiking sessions, then be sure to try this well-marked 8.9 km (5.5 miles) one-way hiking trail of Slieve League. Some say that it is a moderately challenging route that takes about 3 hours and 25 minutes. 

Start the journey from the lower car park as a warm-up hike before you proceed, using the pilgrims’ path as one of the early parts of the trail.

If you want to hike peacefully without any crowds, you can go on a hike on a Sunday or weekday. Dogs are also welcome on this hiking trail, but be sure to keep them on a leash.

What you need to know about this hiking trail:

• Distance: 8.9 km / 5.5 miles (one way)
• Estimated Hiking Duration: 3 hours 25 minutes
• Pet/Family-friendly: Yes!
• Elevation gain: 537 meters

12. Glemcolumbkillle Cliff 

For those who are at Cill Ghabhlaigh (Kilgoly), be sure to try this moderate-level Glencolumbkille Cliff hiking route that loops for 12.6 km (7.8 miles) and takes an average of close to 4 hours to finish.

This hiking trail is not too far from the nearest town of Glencolumbkille and has a stunning scenic path overlooking the northwest terrain of Donegal.

What you need to know about this hiking trail:

• Distance: 12.6 km / 7.8 miles (loop)
• Estimated Hiking Duration: 3 hours 52 minutes
• Pet/Family-friendly: No
• Elevation gain: 475 meters

13. Errigal Loop

If you wish to try hiking at Mount Errigal Loop, then be sure to try this moderate 5.8km (3.6 miles) circular track in Falcarragh, County Donegal. It roughly takes an average of 3 hours to finish this course.

This route takes you through a variety of landscapes and provides stunning views of both the coast and the huge valleys that make up the country. 

However, it’s been shared by others that some of the trails are not well-marked (best to download the trail map before hiking), and you will end your hike by seeing a small parking lot.

What you need to know about this hiking trail:

• Distance: 5.8km / 3.6 miles (loop)
• Estimated Hiking Duration: 2 hours 59 minutes
• Pet/Family-friendly: Yes!
• Elevation gain: 560 meters

14. Muckish Mountain

Here’s one of Donegal’s Seven Sisters, Muckish Mountain, which stands at a height of 666 m (2,185 feet) and it is the 3rd highest mountain in Donegal. 

You can try this  4.3km (2.6 miles) looped hiking trail near Creenasmear, County Donegal, which takes an average of 2 hours and 22 minutes to complete.

Do note that some hikers have warned that the path can be quite wet and dangerous if you do not have proper hiking boots (with good support) as the descent is quite steep.   

What you need to know about this hiking trail:

• Distance: 4.3km / 2.6 miles (loop)
• Estimated Hiking Duration: 2 hours 22 minutes
• Pet/Family-friendly: Yes!
• Elevation gain: 463 meters

15. Ards Friary – Ards Forest Park Loop

If you prefer to hike in the Irish countryside, then this is the perfect hiking trail for you!

This 9.7 km (6.2 miles) Ards Forest Park Loop delightful countryside trail offers a variety of sights and terrain as you make your way along the peaceful spot of Ards Friary (a historical Christian landmark).

With some of the most beautiful scenery in Ireland, the walk starts from Ards Friary and passes through several scenic landscapes, which include beaches, sand dunes, cliffs, salt marshes, and broadleaf woodland. 

Before embarking on this journey, we recommend that you download an offline map of this trail on your device as this route is not well-marked.

What you need to know about this hiking trail:

• Distance: 9.7 km / 6.2 miles (loop)
• Estimated Hiking Duration: 2 hours 46 minutes
• Pet/Family-friendly: Yes!
• Elevation gain: 311 meters

16. Saint Colmcille’s Birthplace To Glenveagh Castle

Take a hike to Glenveagh Castle as you walk through some of the most iconic Glenveagh’s hills by taking this 14.6 km (9 miles) one-way trek  which begins from St.Colmcille’s birthplace.

From here, you’ll find plenty of places to stop and relax along the road, including benches where you can relax and enjoy some food or drinks while enjoying the view of Muckish Mountain and Lough Gartan nearby.

What you need to know about this hiking trail:

• Distance: 14.6 km / 9 miles (one way)
• Estimated Hiking Duration: 4 hours 10 minutes
• Pet/Family-friendly: Yes!
• Elevation gain: 457 meters

17. Urris Lakes Loop 

This is one of Donegal’s hidden gems worth discovering!

There is a 6.6 km (4 miles) Urris Lakes Loop that you can explore in Desertegny, County Donegal, with beautiful views of Urris Lake. 

Along the hiking trail, you will find a small yet beautiful cascading river (almost like a mini waterfall) that will make your 2 hours and 33 minutes of hiking worthwhile!

Do note that dogs are not permitted on this route, so you’ll have to leave them at home (plus it can be dangerous as there are no cliff rails available).

What you need to know about this hiking trail:

• Distance: 6.6 km/ 4 miles (loop)
• Estimated Hiking Duration: 2 hours 33 minutes
• Pet/Family-friendly: No
• Elevation gain: 398 meters

18. Inishowen Head Loop

This lovely 9.3 km (5.7 miles) Inishowen Head Loop covers historic locations such as a WWII Lookout Tower and gives you a great coastline view.

On clear days, you have the chance to catch a glimpse of the west coast of Scotland. If you want to bring your dog on this path, be sure to keep your dog on a leash as they may scare off some wild cattle or sheep.

What you need to know about this hiking trail:

• Distance: 9.3 km / 5.7 miles (loop)
• Estimated Hiking Duration: 1 hour 7 minutes
• Pet/Family-friendly: Yes!
• Elevation gain: 352 meters

Best Places For Hiking In Donegal (Level: Advanced)

If you were already an experienced hiker, then the last 18 hiking trails surely would have been a breeze for you! 

So, if you’re looking for a sweat-dripping, heart-pumping trail, good luck conquering Donegal’s last 9 mighty hiking trails, some of which have been enlisted under the Appalachian trail Donegal.

19. Atlantic Way Loop

If you are near Donegal’s Ros Goill area,  this 15.1 km (9.3 miles) hiking trail is here to test your endurance level. If you can complete this circuit in under 3 hours, then you can certainly take on the rest of our advanced hiking trails in Donegal.

One of the best parts about this hiking path is that, despite its challenging terrain, it still provides a breathtaking view of the Atlantic Way coastline that you can never get bored of.

Do note that there are a few obstacles to overcome along this Atlantic Way Loop, especially with the unpredictable Irish weather at times. Nevertheless, this hiking trail still offers some of the best opportunities for breathtaking photography. 

What you need to know about this hiking trail:

• Distance: 15.1 km/ 9.3 miles (loop)
• Estimated Hiking Duration: 3 hours 57 minutes
• Pet/Family-friendly: Yes!
• Elevation gain: 373 meters

20. Teelin And Slieve League Circular

This is one of the best Donegal mountain walks you can try that is both stunning and challenging to conquer. 

This 14.8-km (9.2 miles) looped trail between Teelin and Slieve League is near Gleann Cholm Cille, County Donegal (which is very near to the famous Slieve League). Ideally, local hikers have shared that the best times to enjoy this hiking trail are between April and September.

You can start your journey from the Slieve League’s visitor center and hike your way up using the Pilgrims’ path to the top. Once you’ve reached and enjoyed the summit, you can return via the one man’s pass and back to Bunglass viewpoint. 

This is truly one of the most challenging hiking routes in Donegal and offers spectacular views. Don’t forget to take photos along the way!

What you need to know about this hiking trail:

• Distance: 14.8 km / 9.2 miles (loop)
• Estimated Hiking Duration: 5 hours 20 minutes
• Pet/Family-friendly: Yes!
• Elevation gain: 783 meters

21. Mount Errigal

If you’re under time constraints but looking for a challenging hike (and you are a hiking beast), go try to conquer the summit of Donegal’s Mount Errigal which is also the tallest mountain in Donegal, and is one of the seven sister in Donegal!

This 4.2km (2.6 miles) hiking trail is certainly not for everyone, as it takes close to 3 hours to climb up. It’s been noted that the early segment of the hike can get muddy at times, so it’s best that you wear proper hiking boots that are waterproof!

Despite its early muddy terrain, you will be rewarded by the panoramic view of Gweedore once you’ve reached the summit!

What you need to know about this hiking trail:

• Distance: 4.2 km / 2.6 miles (one way/loop)
• Estimated Hiking Duration: 2 hours 30  minutes
• Pet/Family-friendly: No
• Elevation gain: 500 meters

22. Slieve League Cliffs Aillte Sliabh

If you’re looking for a more challenging hike near Slieve League, be sure to try the Slieve League Cliffs Aillte Sliabh.

This 12.9 km (8 miles) one-way hiking trail is part of the Appalachian trail in Donegal, which starts at the Bunglass viewpoint of Slieve League and you can complete this trail in under 5 hours at Kelly’s Bridge.

This hiking trail crosses over one of Ireland’s most breathtaking attractions. Regardless of the time of year, it will always leave you breathless! 

Be careful if you plan to hike with younger children, as there are no safety rails beyond the viewing platform. After a rainstorm, the walkways can be slippery, so proper footwear is necessary.

What you need to know about this hiking trail:

• Distance: 12.9 km/ 8 miles (one way)
• Estimated Hiking Duration: 4 hours 51 minutes
• Pet/Family-friendly: Yes!
• Elevation gain: 743 meters

23. Seven Sisters

Get your hiking boots on and hike your way up to 7 point-to-point track of this mountain range (which is famously known as the Seven Sisters). 

This 22.4 km (13.9 miles) mountain trail spans across Creenasmear in County Donegal. It takes an average of 11 hours to finish the trail if you’re not rushing.

These mountain range hiking trails spread across the southwest to the northeast of Ireland. In fact, let’s meet the seven sisters!

Meet the “Seven Sisters” of Donegal:
The Mountain	Checkpoint of Seven Sisters Skyline	Elevation
Muckish	1st Checkpoint	666 m
Crocknalaragagh	2nd Point	471 m
Aghla Beg	3rd Checkpoint	564 m
Ardloughnabrackbaddy	4th Checkpoint	603 m
Aghla More	5th Checkpoint	584 m
Mackoght a.k.a. Wee Errigal	6th Checkpoint	555 m
Errigal	7th Checkpoint	751 m

In fact, this is truly one of the most challenging yet popular hiking trails in Ireland, with the annual competition of the Seven Sisters Skyline,  where people race to hike over these 7 mountains in under 9 hours (absolute madness!).

What you need to know about this hiking trail:

• Distance: 22.4 km / 13.9 miles (one way)
• Estimated Hiking Duration: 10 hours 50 minutes
• Pet/Family-friendly: Yes!
• Elevation gain: 1,929 meters

24. Muckish Mountain

Here’s another sister of Donegal, the Muckish mountain, which is one of the top 5 highest mountains in Donegal, near Creenesmere.

Pace yourself for this 5.3 km (3.2 miles) looped hiking trail that you can complete in under 3 hours. 

Do note that the path can be a bit difficult to navigate at times as it is not well-marked, so ideally, it is best if you have a good hiking watch with GPS that can help guide your back.

What you need to know about this hiking trail:

• Distance: 5.3 km / 3.2 miles (loop)
• Estimated Hiking Duration: 2 hours 46 minutes
• Pet/Family-friendly: Yes!
• Elevation gain: 525 meters

25. Kinnagoe Loop

Hike to this wonderful yet tough 16.3 km (10.2 miles) hiking trail near Moville, Donegal overlooking the Kinnegoe Bay, with breathtaking views along with an ancient, winding bog road.

In general, Kinnagoe Loop is regarded as difficult, and it takes an average of 5 hours and 5 minutes to accomplish.

What you need to know about this hiking trail:

• Distance: 16.3 km / 10.2 miles (loop)
• Estimated Hiking Duration: 5 hours 5 minutes
• Pet/Family-friendly: No
• Elevation gain: 635 meters

26. Malin And Slievebane Circular

Here is another hiking trail in Malin Head, is the Malin and Slievebane Loop trail, which is suitable for experienced hikers. Be sure to try this 34.4 km (21.3 miles) looped hiking trail if you are here. 

A tough yet beautiful hiking course that takes an average of 8 hours to finish because a 2-hour hike isn’t enough to showcase the true beauty of Malin Head, Donegal. Once you’re done, be sure to visit the Malin head Pier.

Here are some of Ireland’s local secrets: Hike here in November at night, and you may get the chance to see the dancing lights of the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights).

What you need to know about this hiking trail:

• Distance: 34.4 km / 21.3 miles (loop)
• Estimated Hiking Duration: 8 hours 3 minutes
• Pet/Family-friendly: No
• Elevation gain: 571 meters

27. Letterkenny And Ailt An Chorrain Circular

If you’re a hardcore hiker (you thrive on long-distance endurance hikes), then be sure to take on this hiking trail between Letterkenny and Ailt An Chorrain Circular, as it is truly one of the best long-distance hiking trails in Ireland.

This 128.9 km (80 miles) looped hiking trail is spread across Loughkeel, Donegal, and takes an average of 32 hours (about 3 days if you hike non-stop, which is borderline crazy and not sustainable!). 

It is indeed a challenging hiking trail that only a few can conquer!

What you need to know about this hiking trail:

• Distance: 128.9 km / 80 miles (loop)
• Estimated Hiking Duration: multi-days
• Pet/Family-friendly: No
• Elevation gain: 2,672 meters

Essential Hiking Gear

Regardless of these trails, a day of hiking in Donegal, Ireland should not be an issue for all hikers as they have plenty of trails that are beginner-friendly up to the most challenging hiking trails. 

No hills or mountains in Donegal can make your hiking session comfortable if you do not have the proper hiking gear. Plus, the Irish weather can be quite cloudy and rainy at times, so it’s important that you dress for the weather well. 

A few notable items that are worth investing in if you plan to do a lot of hikes during your trip to Donegal, Ireland.

• Invest in a good windbreaker jacket that is waterproof.

• Good-traction hiking boots with deep lugs: There are plenty of choices that you can choose for your hiking boots, so here’s a list that can certainly help you with your decision. 

• Super-functional hiking accessories: lightweight, expandable trekking poles for a stronger grip during your mountain walks in Donegal.

• Safety tracking devices: Consider getting these Apple AirTags (so that your loved one knows you are hiking somewhere safely.)

If you have some extra time to spare, do join some of the friendliest hiking groups in Donegal, like Swilly Hiking Club, Bluestack Ramblers Walking Club, Magee Hillwalking Club, and many more. 

These groups would usually arrange a weekly schedule to hike some of the best hiking places in Donegal, so if you happen to be near any of those areas, do join when you can!

FAQs On Hiking In Ireland 

Is Ireland Good For Hiking?

Yes, absolutely! Ireland is one of the best places to go hiking almost all year round as this beautiful, former volcanic island is spared from experiencing any of the extreme weather that is quite common in other parts of the world (like earthquakes in Japan). Although it needs to be acknowledged that, despite the fact that there are no extreme climate conditions, Ireland is well-known for its rainy weather, so it’s best that you get waterproof gear if you plan to hike in Ireland.

What Is The Hardest Hike In Ireland?

The hardest hike in Ireland is Carrauntoohil in County Kerry, which is arguably one of the most difficult hikes in Ireland as it stands at a height of 3,406 feet (1,038 meters) and holds the distinction of being Ireland’s highest mountain peak. 

If you are a seasoned hiker looking for your next challenging hiking conquest in Ireland, then be sure to try it out, All the best!

How Many Hiking Trails Are There In Ireland?

There are around 954 developed trails all over the country that are available for all levels of hiking (from new beginner hikers to seasoned and professional hikers). 

These trails will take you through a variety of scenic landscapes that will surely keep you surprised as you reach the summit. From stunning Irish wilderness terrain, mashland, to scenic coastal view, Ireland is never short of beautiful hiking trails.

Conclusion

So there you have it-the best 27 spots for hiking in Donegal for your Irish adventure in 2022! 

Hiking in Donegal should definitely be on your bucket list once you are there in that northern county, as Donegal has plenty of hiking places that will leave you with breathtaking views of the Northern Ireland mountainous landscape. 

Though, if you find that hiking can be a bit too strenuous for your trip, perhaps you can check out my 21 Walking In Donegal Spots (that will take your breath away!)

So, get your hiking boots ready and start your lifetime Irish adventure today! 

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