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 distinct oval shape, it sits at the western edge of the valley that cradles Ireland’s three highest summits – Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Caher. This isn’t a spot for casual picnicking or leisurely strolls. Instead, it functions as the natural gateway and turnaround point 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. Here, the terrain opens up to reveal sweeping vistas across the water to the steep cirque between Carrauntoohil and Caher.
The Landscape & History
The Coomloughra Horseshoe is a classic U-shaped glacial valley carved into the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, the rugged mountain range that dominates the Iveragh Peninsula. The valley holds three lakes – the expansive Lough Coomloughra, the mid-size Lough Acoose, and the diminutive Lough Eighter. Historically, this has been private farming land, and the trailhead still carries signage reminding visitors that the property is privately owned. The warnings are serious: extreme mountain conditions are common, and dogs are strictly prohibited. Sheep graze freely across the surrounding pasture, a constant reminder that the Reeks remain a working agricultural landscape as much as a wilderness destination. The concrete track itself was originally constructed to service hydroelectric infrastructure, giving hikers a steady, engineered climb before the terrain turns wild.
What to See & Do
- Lake-side panoramas – From the dam at Lough Eighter, look north-west across the water to the steep glacial cirque separating Carrauntoohil and Caher. On calm days, the lake acts as a mirror for the jagged peaks, creating a striking composition that captures the raw scale of the Reeks.
- The climb to Skregmore – After crossing the dam, the route heads toward Cnoc Lochtair and the Skregmore ridge. The initial ascent on the concrete road gains roughly 500 ft in the first half-mile, followed by another 500 ft to the lake. Beyond the dam, the path transitions into soft grass, loose boulder fields, and rocky scrambles that demand careful footing.
- Mountain flora & fauna – Sheep are a constant presence, often stepping onto the trail without hesitation. Keep an eye out for hardy alpine plants like St Patrick’s Cabbage (Saxifraga spathularis) and Sea Thrift, which cling to the rocky outcrops higher up the slopes.
- The full ridge circuit – Lough Eighter marks the lowest point of the Coomloughra Horseshoe loop. From here, the trail continues clockwise to Skregmore, then onto the exposed Beenkeragh Ridge, up to Carrauntoohil, across to Caher, and back down to the lake and car park. The complete circuit covers 12 km (7.5 mi) with approximately 1,300 m (4,265 ft) of elevation gain. Experienced hikers typically complete it in 6 to 8 hours.
Practical Information
The hike starts at the Hydro Track car park at Breanlee. Parking is limited to a narrow verge along the road, so arriving before 9 am is highly recommended during peak summer months. There is no admission charge, but respect the private land status, stay on established paths, and pack out all waste.
| 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 |
| Access | Hydro Track car park at Breanlee |
| Dogs | Strictly prohibited |
| Fees | Free entry |
Navigation & Route Finding – The path is unmarked in sections and can fade completely on the higher ridges. Carry a reliable mountain map (Harvey Superwalker 1:30,000 or OSI Discovery Sheet 78) and know how to use a compass. GPS apps can be helpful, but battery life drops quickly in cold, wet conditions. The Kerry Mountain Rescue service strongly advises against attempting the ridge in icy, high-wind, or low-visibility weather.
Safety Considerations – The Beenkeragh Ridge, which begins shortly after the lake, is narrow and exposed. It doesn’t require technical climbing gear, but it does demand confidence on uneven rock and occasional hand-holds. Wet slate and sudden gusts make the ridge hazardous; most local guides recommend turning back if the weather deteriorates. There are no toilets, water points, or shelters at Lough Eighter. Bring enough drinking water for the full day, and note that the summit of Carrauntoohil later in the route offers a roofless stone shelter and a large steel cross for a brief break.
Getting There & Nearby Bases
Reach the car park via the N72 from Killarney, turning onto the local road toward Glencar and following signs for the Hydro Track. Public transport does not serve this trailhead, so most visitors drive themselves or book a guided day-trip from Killarney.
The village of Beaufort sits a short drive north of the trailhead and serves as a practical overnight base. It offers a selection of B&Bs, a local shop for supplies, and pubs where hikers can warm up after a long day on the mountain. Beaufort is also a useful starting point for shorter, less technical walks in the Reeks if weather or fitness levels don’t allow for the full horseshoe.
Seasonal Advice
Mountain weather in the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks shifts quickly. The ridge walk is generally safest from late May to early September, when daylight hours are longer and snow cover is minimal. Autumn brings frequent rain, strong winds, and shorter days, while winter conditions often require ice axes, crampons, and mountaineering experience. Always check the Met Éireann forecast and monitor Kerry Mountain Rescue alerts before heading out.
For detailed route descriptions, GPS tracks, and current trail conditions, refer to:
- Mountain Trails – Coomloughra Horseshoe
- ActiveME – Coomloughra Horseshoe Loop Walk
- Irish Times – A walk for the weekend: Coomloughra Glen
Lough Eighter is a modest lake by size, but its position at the foot of Ireland’s highest peaks makes it a critical waypoint for anyone tackling the Reeks. Arrive early, pack for rapid weather changes, and leave the dogs at home. The concrete track will test your legs, but the moment you step off the dam and face the open cirque, the raw scale of the Irish mountain landscape becomes impossible to ignore.