Coomloughra Horseshoe – Ireland’s Classic Ridge Walk

Overview

The Coomloughra Horseshoe is widely regarded as Ireland’s premier ridge walk. Starting from the Hydro Road car park near Glencar, the circuit climbs the three highest peaks in the country – Carrauntoohil (1,039 m), Beenkeragh (1,010 m) and Caher (1,001 m) – before looping back through a dramatic U‑shaped glacial valley that cradles three alpine lakes (Lough Eighter, Lough Coomloughra and Lough Eagher). The route is a strenuous 12–13 km (8 mi) with roughly 1,300 m of total ascent and typically takes 6–8 hours for fit, experienced walkers.

History & Naming

The horseshoe takes its name from the glacially‑carved valley that forms a natural “U” around the three lakes, a classic example of a corrie‑type basin left by the last Ice Age. The ridge has long been a challenge for mountaineers; the first recorded complete traverse was made in the early 20th century by members of the Irish Mountaineering Club, who noted the exposed arête on Beenkeragh as the most demanding section.

What to See & Do

• Summit the three highest Irish mountains – standing on the cross at Carrauntoohil’s summit feels like being on the roof of the island; the view stretches from the Dingle Peninsula to the Beara Mountains.
• Beenkeragh Ridge – a narrow, exposed arête that links Beenkeragh and Carrauntoohil. The ridge is not technical rock climbing but requires careful scrambling and a head for heights; a slip could be serious, especially in wind.
• Caher Ridge – after Carrauntoohil the route follows a broader ridge to Caher and its subsidiary tops (Caher West, Caher West Top). The terrain is less exposed but still offers spectacular cliff‑edge panoramas.
• Lakes and glacial scenery – the horseshoe encloses Lough Coomloughra, the largest of the three lakes, and offers striking reflections of the surrounding peaks. In clear weather you can also glimpse the highest lake in Ireland, Lough Cummeenoughter, from the higher ridges.
• Wildlife – eagles, buzzards and ravens are regular sightings; the valley is also dotted with sheep, a reminder that the Reeks are privately owned grazing land.

Seasonal Considerations

Late spring to early autumn provides the most reliable footing and daylight. In winter the ridge can be icy and snow‑covered; crampons and an ice axe become essential, and the exposure on Beenkeragh Ridge makes the route unsuitable for most walkers in severe conditions. Always check the weather forecast and be prepared for rapid changes typical of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks.

Practical Information

Route description (clockwise – the most popular direction)

1. Hydro Track to Lough Eighter – From the car park, follow the steep concrete lane (the Hydro Track) up about 500 ft in the first half‑mile, then continue to the dam at Lough Eighter. The ascent is steady but well‑graded, offering early views over the surrounding pasture.
2. Cnoc Íochtair and Skregmore – After the dam, the ground becomes stony and pathless. Climb the shoulder of Cnoc Íochtair (747 m) and then tackle Skregmore (848 m). This section accounts for roughly half of the total elevation gain and includes a series of minor tops (often quoted as 11½ summits on Skregmore).
3. Beenkeragh – From Skregmore the ridge narrows and the terrain becomes rockier. A short scramble brings you to the summit of Beenkeragh. The ridge ahead is the famed Beenkeragh Ridge.
4. Beenkeragh Ridge to Carrauntoohil – The arête is knife‑edge in places; use both hands for balance and keep a steady pace. The ridge drops and rises before reaching the summit col of Carrauntoohil. The final 350 ft to the top is a steep, rocky scramble.
5. Carrauntoohil summit – The stone shelter and the 4‑metre steel cross mark the highest point in Ireland. Take a moment to enjoy the 360° outlook before heading south.
6. Caher Ridge – From the summit, follow the well‑worn path westward to Caher (1,001 m) and its subsidiary tops. The ridge here is broader and less exposed, but still offers dramatic drops to the Coomloughra valley.
7. Descent to the Hydro Track – After the last summit (Caher West Top, 975 m) the ground eases into a grassy slope that leads back to Lough Eighter and finally down the concrete road to the car park.

Alternative direction

Some walkers prefer a counter‑clockwise circuit, starting with the Caher ridge and finishing on the Skregmore side. This reverses the exposure on Beenkeragh Ridge, making the most technical section the final leg before descent.

Logistics and preparation

• Maps & navigation – The route is unmarked; a reliable OSI map and a compass are mandatory. Many walkers also use the free GPS file available from the ActiveME guide or the RouteYou app.
• Equipment – Sturdy, ankle‑supporting boots, a helmet (optional but recommended for the exposed ridge), trekking poles, and a waterproof jacket are advisable. Carry at least 1.5 L of water and high‑energy snacks.
• Guided options – Local operators such as the Reeks District have historically offered guided day trips; verify current availability before booking.
• Emergency contacts – Kerry Mountain Rescue can be reached on 999 or 112. Give them a clear description of your location and grid reference if you need assistance.
• Respect the land – The Reeks are privately owned farming land. Keep to the established ground, do not disturb livestock, and take all litter with you.

Nearby attractions

After completing the horseshoe, consider extending your day with a visit to the nearby village of Beaufort, a traditional gateway to the Reeks offering cafés, B&Bs and a short walk to the Gap of Dunloe. The Black Valley to the west provides quieter valley walks and stunning river scenery, ideal for a relaxed finish to a demanding day.

The Coomloughra Horseshoe rewards the effort with some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in Ireland. With careful planning, solid navigation skills and respect for the weather, it delivers a day‑long adventure that few other walks can match.