Hiking Killarney National Park : 7 Trails for Every Level
Killarney is a place where every path leads to discovery, from peaceful woodland trails and powerful waterfalls to charming local experiences just minutes from The Brehon Hotel & Spa. Whether you want a gentle stroll, a scenic viewpoint, or a memorable day exploring Killarney’s culture and landscapes, this guide brings together the very best of what’s right on your doorstep. With Killarney National Park only moments away and a wealth of activities nearby, your stay at The Brehon becomes the perfect base for adventure, relaxation, and everything in between.
Muckross House and Torc Waterfall Loop ( Beginner friendly )
Distance: 6.3 km | Duration: 1.5–2 hours | Elevation: Minimal
Begin your route at Muckross House and trail through ancient woodlands and historic grounds. Wander past the elegant 19th-century Muckross House, explore traditional farms, and finish at the iconic 20-metre Torc Waterfall tumbling through mossy rocks.
Make it ideal for families looking for easy walks in Killarney or first-time hikers visiting Killarney. Just a 5–10-minute drive from The Brehon Hotel.
Tomies Wood and Lough Leane ( Easy to Moderate )
Distance: 7 km loop | Duration: 2–3 hours | Elevation: 268m
You will walk through oak woodland alongside Lough Leane, with some lovely views across the water. O’Sullivan’s Cascade which are series of sparkling waterfalls have panoramic views across Lough Leane. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for white tailed eagles soaring overhead.
Perfect for nature lovers seeking scenicwalking trails in Killarney, this route are mostly flat with short climbs; great for nature lovers who want scenery without strain and is just a short 10–15-minute drive into the heart of the national park.
Cardiac Steps Loop (Moderate to Hard)
Distance: 9 km | Duration: 3–4 hours | Elevation: 300m+
Named for the steep stone steps that will get your heart racing, this short but intense climb on Torc Mountain rewards you with sweeping views over the Lakes of Killarney and Muckross House far below. The infamous “Cardiac Steps” deliver the thrill with it’s a rewarding descent past the waterfall.
A great option for those looking for a more challenging Killarney hiking experience, yet still close to comfort. It is short enough for fit beginners but challenging enough to feel like a proper hike. Make sure you tackle the steps early in the morning, the views at the top make it worthwhile. Torc trailhead is only a 5 minute drive from The Brehon meaning it is one of the closest adventures.
Torc Mountain Hike (Moderate)
Distance: 8 km return | Duration: 3–4 hours | Elevation: 535m summit
Follow the Old Kenmare Road before branching off for a steady climb to the summit. Panoramic 360° views stretch across Killarney’s lakes, Muckross House, and the distant MacGillycuddy’s Reeks. making this one of the most rewarding hiking trails in Killarney National Park for intermediate hikers.
Well-marked path with a mix of gentle gravel and rocky sections – a perfect step up from easier trails. It is just 5-minute drive to the upper car park.
Pro tip: Start from the upper Torc car park for the most scenic route.
Gap of Dunloe walk (Moderate)
Distance: 11 km one-way (or combine with boat return) | Duration: 3–5 hours | Elevation: Steady incline (240m)
This is one of Ireland’s most dramatic hikes winds through a glacial valley between the McGillicuddy’s Reeks and Purple Mountain. Pass five sparkling lakes and dramatic cliffs. Wide path with moderate climbs; making it one of the most accessible Killarney National Park hikes for families and groups and the scenery makes it feel easier than the stats suggest. A short 15–20-minute drive from The Brehon Hotel to Kate Kearney’s Cottage trailhead.
Old Kenmare Road (Moderate to Hard)
Distance: Up to 16 km one-way (sections possible) | Duration: 5–7 hours full route | Elevation: Rolling hills (627m)
The Old Kenmare Road is part of the legendary Kerry Way, this upland Killarney National Park hiking trail meanders through ancient oak forests, open moorland, and dramatic mountain views. Expect boardwalks over bogs, river crossings, and breathtaking panoramas of Torc and Mangerton mountains on one of the most diverse hiking trails Killarney National Park has to offer. There are flexible options to do shorter sections for moderate days or the full route for a challenge and you can even combine the first section with Torc Mountain for a great day out!. It is 5–10-minute drive from The Brehon to the Torc Upper car park start.
Mangerton Mountain & Devil’s Punchbowl (Hard – Experienced Hikers)
Distance: 10–14 km loop | Duration: 5–7 hours | Elevation: 839m summit
Killarney’s iconic mountain hike takes you to the summit with Ireland’s highest waterfall source – the mysterious Devil’s Punchbowl glacial lake. Expect rugged terrain, four mountain lakes, and amazing views over the Lakes of Killarney and MacGillycuddy’s Reeks on this challenging hike.
This is a serious challenge with huge rewards for fit hikers looking to conquer one of the premier Killarney hiking trails. How close to The Brehon: 15-minute drive to the roadside trailhead. Pro tip: Check the weather as clear days deliver views you’ll never forget.
The Brehon Hotel & Spa places you at the heart of it all. The hotel is perfectly situated just minutes from some of Ireland’s most spectacular hiking trails, it is the ideal base for anyone coming to Killarney to explore the great outdoors. After a long day of hiking, there is nowhere better to return to! Enjoy the comfort of an elegant Heritage Bedroom or a restorative treatment in the award winning Anú Spa. Adventure and Indulgence, what more could you want?