Beenkeragh

Overview

Rising to 1,010 m (3,315 ft) – although some sources record 1,008.2 m – Beenkeragh (Irish: Binn Chaorach) is the second‑highest summit in the Republic of Ireland and a cornerstone of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, County Kerry. The mountain forms the dramatic north‑eastern flank of the Reeks and is linked to Ireland’s highest peak, Carrauntoohil, by the razor‑thin Beenkeragh Ridge – a classic, exposed arête that attracts seasoned hill‑walkers from around the world. The summit offers a 360° panorama of the surrounding peaks, deep corries, and, on a clear day, the distant Atlantic coastline.

History & Classification

Beenkeragh is recognised on several mountain‑listing schemes. It appears on the Arderin and Vandeleur‑Lynam lists, and the Scottish Mountaineering Club classifies it as a Furth – a mountain over 3,000 ft that meets Munro criteria outside Scotland. Consequently, it is sometimes described as one of the “Irish Munros”. The peak’s Irish name, Binn Chaorach (“mountain of sheep”), reflects the pastoral heritage of the surrounding valleys.

Geology & Landscape

The summit sits on the Ballinskelligs Sandstone Formation, a bedrock of purple sandstone and siltstone that gives the Reeks their distinctive rugged colour and texture. The landscape is characterised by steep grassy slopes, craggy ridges and deep corries such as the Eagle’s Nest, which cradles Lough Cummeenoughter, Ireland’s highest lake (988 m). These geological features create the dramatic knife‑edge ridges and exposed rock that define the Beenkeragh experience.

What to See & Do

The Coomloughra Horseshoe

One of the most celebrated ridge walks in Ireland, the Coomloughra Horseshoe is a roughly 12‑km loop that tackles the three highest Reeks summits – Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh, and Caher. The circuit typically takes 5‑7 hours and combines steep ascents, exposed ridges, and spectacular vistas. The section that traverses the Beenkeragh Ridge is often cited as the most intimidating, demanding sure‑footed scrambling across narrow rock.

Stumpa an tSáimh Ridge

For those seeking a more direct, albeit demanding, approach, the Stumpa an tSáimh Ridge starts at the historic Cronins Yard car‑park west of Killarney. The 11‑km, 5‑hour route climbs 941 m in total and includes a “hairy” scramble up the ridge to the summit of Beenkeragh before continuing onto Carrauntoohil via The Bones – a subsidiary summit that sits midway on the ridge. Detailed route notes are available on ActiveME’s guide.

Hag’s Tooth & Eagle’s Nest

Another popular ascent begins in the Hag’s Glen, where walkers first tackle the distinctive Hag’s Tooth and then follow the steep Hag’s Tooth Ridge to the summit. This line drops into the dramatic Eagle’s Nest corrie, a three‑tiered basin that cradles Lough Cummeenoughter, Ireland’s highest lake. From the summit, the ridge can be crossed to Carrauntoohil and the descent completed via the Heavenly Gates path on the east face of Carrauntoohil.

Route details (Hiiker): 8.8 km loop, approx. 3 hrs 10 min, elevation gain 840 m, difficulty Difficult.

Alternative Northern Approach

A less‑trodden route approaches Beenkeragh from the north via the Knockgrinnea Ridge. Walkopedia describes this as a “reasonably straightforward if quite long haul” that rewards walkers with quieter terrain and excellent views of the Reeks’ northern corries. The approach can be combined with a loop back to the Hydro Road lay‑by for a full‑day circuit.

Trail Ratings & Difficulty

• Walkopedia rating: 86.5 / 100 – classified as Strenuous.
• Hiiker rating for the Hag’s Tooth & Beenkeragh loop: 8.8 km, approx. 3 hrs 10 min, elevation gain 840 m, difficulty Difficult.

These independent scores underline that while the routes are rewarding, they demand a good level of fitness, sure‑footedness and, for the ridge sections, comfort with exposure.

Practical Information

Getting There

The Reeks lie about 20 km north of Killarney. From the town centre, follow the R568 towards Glenbeigh and turn onto the Hydro Road (signposted for the Reeks). The Cronins Yard car‑park is reached after a short turn‑off; a modest parking fee may apply locally, but the site is otherwise free. Public transport to the trailheads is limited, so a private vehicle is the most reliable option.

Safety & Preparation

• The Beenkeragh Ridge is classified as “intimidating” by local hill‑walking clubs; only attempt it if you are comfortable with exposed scrambling.
• Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support are essential; consider a rope or helmet for the most exposed sections if you are unsure.
• Weather in the Reeks can change rapidly; strong winds are common on the summit.
• Mobile reception is patchy; carry a physical map and compass as a backup.

Guided Options

For those who prefer a professional lead, Morrison Tours offers a guided Coomloughra Horseshoe experience, complete with transport from Killarney and a qualified mountain guide. Kerry Climbing also provides guided scrambles of the Beenkeragh Ridge for groups seeking a more intensive experience.

Nearby Points of Interest

• Beaufort – the gateway village to the Reeks, with cafés and a visitor centre.
• Caher Mountain – Ireland’s third‑highest peak, often combined with Beenkeragh in the Coomloughra Horseshoe.
• Lough Cummeenoughter – Ireland’s highest lake, nestled in the Eagle’s Nest corrie, visible from the summit.

Summary

Whether you are chasing the thrill of a knife‑edge ridge, seeking the solitude of Ireland’s highest lake, or simply want to stand on the island’s second‑tallest summit, Beenkeragh delivers a memorable mountain adventure. Its rugged terrain, dramatic connections to Carrauntoohil, and sweeping views make it a must‑visit for any serious hill‑walker exploring the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks.