Here you will find the answers to the questions most frequently asked by people contacting Mountaintrails. If you cannot find the answer to your query, please contact us.
HOW OUR GRADING SYSTEM WORKS
Our day hikes are graded easy, moderate, hard and strenuous.
EASY
Mainly on easily identifiable paths, with good underfoot conditions. Can include open countryside with some rough ground and easy ascents.
For example: East Brockagh and Glendalough day hike.
Time: 3 -5 hours Height gain: 200-400 metres Distance: 8km – 12km
MODERATE
More informal paths, rougher, boggy and more uneven terrain with the possibility of rocky, moderately steep ground.
For example: Derrybawn and Mullacor Loop in Wicklow.
Ascent: 500-800 metres
Time: 5-6 hours
HARD
Some hillwalking experience required. Underfoot conditions could be rough and uneven with the possibility of rocky and steep sections.
For example: Mweelrea, Lugnaquilla, or Coumshingaun and the Comeragh Mountains.
Ascent 800-900 metres
Time 6 – 7 hours
STRENUOUS
Open moorland, mountain plateau, rocks and broken ground without clear paths. There may be some exposure and a need for some basic scrambling skills.
For example: Eastern Reeks ridge, Cushnabinnia Horseshoe, Carrauntoohil.
Ascent: 900-1000+ metres
Time: 7-9 hours
WHAT TO BRING ON A MOUNTAINTRAILS HIKE
Here is a checklist of what you will need to wear/bring on one of our day hikes, we look forward to seeing you very soon!
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Waterproof jacket and pants (moderate and hard hikes)
- Comfortable athletic leggings or trekking pants (no denim jeans please)
- Hiking socks
- Baselayer (T-shirt, but not cotton)
- Insulation layers
- Spare warm clothing
- Hat and gloves
- 1½ litres of water (or a hot drink in the winter)
- Food for the day
- Sunscreen and sunglasses (in the summer)
- Rucksack of around 25-30 litres capacity
- Gaiters (optional)
- Walking poles (optional)
- Personal First Aid Kit and medication