Mullaghcleevaun

Overview

Mullaghcleevaun (Irish: Mullach Cliabháin, meaning “summit of the cradle” or “basket”) sits at the heart of the Wicklow Mountains. Rising to 849 m (2,785 ft), it is the second-highest peak in County Wicklow and ranks as Ireland’s 15th-highest summit on the Arderin scale. The mountain forms a broad, peat-covered spine that runs from the Sally Gap in the north to Tonelagee in the south. It is a serious hillwalker’s destination, offering long, exposed ridges and a landscape shaped by ancient glaciers.

The Summit & Cleevaun Lough

The name Mullaghcleevaun comes directly from the mountain’s most striking feature: a deep, cradle-shaped corrie near the top that holds Cleevaun Lough. Perched at 686 m (2,251 ft), it is County Wicklow’s highest natural lake. The summit itself is a flat, pebble-strewn plateau marked by a concrete trig pillar. From this vantage point, the view opens up across the central range. To the west, the dark waters of the Blessington Lakes stretch out below, while to the east, the landscape drops sharply into the Glenmacnass Valley. On clear days, the Irish Sea and Dublin skyline are visible far to the south.

Near the north-west rim of the lake stands a small stone monument. It commemorates two An Óige volunteers who drowned in the lake during the 1970s. The plaque serves as a quiet reminder that this is a remote, deep-water environment where conditions can turn dangerous quickly. Swimming is strongly discouraged.

Walking Routes

Mullaghcleevaun acts as a central junction for several of Wicklow’s most popular mountain routes. Walkers can choose from short half-day loops or demanding multi-summit ridges:

• Carraigshouk to Summit (Half-Day Loop): Starting from the small “Oasis” car park on the R115, this 8.5 km route climbs steadily to Mullaghcleevaun East Top (790 m) before reaching the main peak. It takes roughly 3 to 4 hours and is the most straightforward option for a single summit visit.
• Sally Gap to Mullaghcleevaun Ridge: A longer, more technical traverse that follows the continuous high ridge from the Sally Gap. The path crosses Carrigvore, Gravale, and Duff Hill before reaching the east top and main summit. The boggy terrain and exposed sections make this a demanding undertaking best suited for experienced walkers.
• Mullaghcleevaun–Tonelagee Loop: Covering approximately 16 km over 6 hours, this strenuous route links the two major peaks. It drops down into the Glenmacnass Valley, passing the Glenmacnass Waterfall before climbing back up to Tonelagee (817 m) and returning along the high ridge.
• Blessington Approach: Walkers heading north from the Carraigshouk car park can follow the ridge line for about 3 km before joining the Sally Gap traverse. This cuts out the longer southern approach and is a favourite for those wanting a focused ridge experience.

History & Landscape

The geology here is classic Wicklow: ancient granite tors, deep peat hags, and extensive blanket bog. The corrie holding Cleevaun Lough is a textbook example of glacial erosion, carved out during the last ice age when massive glaciers flowed southwards through the mountains. The area falls within Wicklow Mountains National Park, a protected landscape known for its rich biodiversity, historic field walls, and the remnants of the 18th-century Old Military Road that winds through the southern foothills. The summit’s prominence of 199 m qualifies it as an Irish Marilyn, and it has long been a standard checkpoint for hillwalkers completing the Vandeleur-Lynam or Arderin lists.

Practical Information

Safety & Preparation

Hillwalking in this region carries inherent risks. The terrain is uneven, with deep peat hags, steep descents, and loose stone that become slippery when wet. Always carry a detailed map, compass, and fully charged phone. The Ordnance Survey Discovery Series sheet 56 covers the area, and digital GPS tracks are available on platforms like Komoot and ActiveME. Waterproof boots, gaiters, and layered clothing are essential, as weather at altitude can shift rapidly. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash, particularly on exposed ridge sections and near the lake.

Nearby Attractions

• Glenmacnass Waterfall – A dramatic cascade easily accessed from the Tonelagee loop.
• Blessington and its Lakes – Ideal for a scenic drive after descending the western slopes.
• Glendalough – A historic monastic settlement with a visitor centre, cafés, and accommodation options.

Plan your ascent for late spring or early autumn when the bog is firmer and daylight hours are generous. Check the mountain weather forecast before leaving, and allow extra time for route-finding on the open ridge.