Overview
Lough Eighter is the smallest and lowest of the three glacial lakes that form the dramatic amphitheatre of the Coomloughra Horseshoe in County Kerry. Known locally as the “Egg Lake” because of its oval shape, it lies at the western edge of the valley that cradles Ireland’s three highest summits – Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Caher. The lake is not a destination in its own right for casual picnicking; rather, it is the natural gateway for the most celebrated ridge walk in Ireland. From the concrete “Hydro Track” that climbs steeply from the car park at Breanlee, hikers reach a small dam at the lake’s western end and are rewarded with sweeping vistas across the water to the steep cirque between Carrauntoohil and Caher.
Background
The Coomloughra Horseshoe is a classic U‑shaped glacial valley cut into the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, the rugged mountain range that dominates the Iveragh Peninsula. The valley contains three lakes – the massive Lough Coomloughra, the mid‑size Lough Acoose and the diminutive Lough Eighter. Historically the area has been private farming land, and the trailhead is marked with signage warning that the land is privately owned, that extreme conditions are possible, and that dogs are prohibited (the sign even notes that dogs may be shot). Sheep graze freely across the surrounding pasture, a reminder that the Reeks are still a working agricultural landscape.
What to See & Do
- Lake‑side panoramas – From the dam at Lough Eighter you can look north‑west across the lake to the steep glacial cirque that separates Carrauntoohil and Caher. On clear days the water mirrors the jagged peaks, creating a classic photograph of the “Egg Lake” framed by stone.
- Steep ascent to Skregmore – After crossing the dam the route climbs toward Cnoc Lochtair and the Skregmore ridge. The ascent gains roughly 500 ft in the first half‑mile of the concrete road, then another 500 ft to the lake, before the path becomes a mix of soft grass, boulder fields and rocky scrambles.
- Wildlife encounters – Sheep are ubiquitous; they often appear on the path, unbothered by the passing hikers. The area is also home to St Patrick’s Cabbage (Saxifraga spathularis) and Sea Thrift, adding a touch of alpine flora to the landscape.
- Part of a classic ridge walk – Lough Eighter marks the low‑point of the Coomloughra Horseshoe loop. From here the trail continues clockwise to the summit of Skregmore, then onto the exposed Beenkeragh Ridge, Carrauntoohil and finally Caher before descending back to the lake and the car park. The full circuit is 12 km (7.5 mi) with about 1 300 m (4 265 ft) of ascent and typically takes 6–8 hours for experienced hikers.
Practical Information
The hike begins at the Hydro Track car park (sometimes called the “Concrete Road” or “Hydro Road”) at Breanlee. Parking is limited to a small verge; arriving early in the morning is advisable, especially in the summer months. There is no admission fee – the area is free to access, but the land is privately owned, so respect the signage and stay on the established path.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance (loop) | 12 km (7.5 mi) |
| Estimated time | 6–8 hours |
| Total ascent | ~1 300 m (4 265 ft) |
| Difficulty | Extremely strenuous / challenging ridge walk |
| Access | Hydro Track car park at Breanlee (Hydro Road) |
| Dogs | Prohibited – signage warns they may be shot |
| Fees | Free entry |
Getting there – The car park is reached via the N72 from Killarney, turning onto the local road toward Glencar and following signs for the “Hydro Track”. Public transport does not serve the trailhead; most visitors arrive by car or join a guided day‑trip from Killarney.
Navigation – The route is un‑blazed in places; the path can be faint or disappear entirely on the higher ridges. A reliable mountain map (Harvey Superwalker 1:30 000 or OSI Discovery Sheet 78) and a compass are essential, especially in poor visibility. The Kerry Mountain Rescue service advises against attempting the ridge in icy or windy conditions.
Safety – The Beenkeragh Ridge, which follows the lake, is narrow and exposed. While not a technical climb, it requires sure‑footedness and occasional hand‑holds. In wet or windy weather the ridge becomes hazardous; many guides recommend turning back if conditions deteriorate.
Facilities – There are no toilets, water points or shelters at the lake. Hikers should carry sufficient water (the dam provides a scenic backdrop but not a water source) and pack out all litter. The summit of Carrauntoohil, reached later in the loop, offers a roofless stone shelter and a large steel cross for a brief rest.
Nearby Towns & Access
The village of Beaufort lies a short drive north of the trailhead and makes a convenient base for those wishing to stay overnight before or after tackling the Coomloughra Horseshoe. Beaufort provides a range of B&Bs, a small shop and a pub where hikers can refuel. The town is also a popular starting point for shorter walks in the Reeks, offering alternative routes for less‑experienced walkers.
Seasonal Advice
Weather in the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks can change rapidly. The ridge walk is generally safest from late May to early September when daylight is longest and snow is unlikely. Autumn can bring wet, windy conditions and reduced visibility, while winter often sees snow and ice on the higher sections, making the route suitable only for experienced mountaineers with appropriate equipment. Always check the latest weather forecast and mountain‑rescue alerts before setting out.
Further reading – Detailed route descriptions, GPS files and safety advice can be found on the following sites:
- Mountain Trails – Coomloughra Horseshoe
- ActiveME – Coomloughra Horseshoe Loop Walk
- Irish Times – A walk for the weekend: Coomloughra Glen
Lough Eighter may be modest in size, but its position at the foot of Ireland’s loftiest peaks makes it a pivotal landmark for any serious hillwalker in the Reeks. Whether you are tackling the full Coomloughra Horseshoe or simply seeking a dramatic lakeside viewpoint before the ascent, the Egg Lake offers a memorable slice of Kerry’s wild beauty.