Climb Lugnaquilla Mountain

Lugnaquilla Guided Hike

We climb Lugnaquilla mountain via Fraughan Rock Glen, which offers a more gradual and scenic route to the summit, at 925 metres. This is the highest point in Leinster and one of only 13 mountains over 3000ft in Ireland. In good weather there are superb views across the Wicklow mountains, and beyond to the coast, even as far as Wales! One of our most popular itineraries.

We start at the site of the memorial stone to the 1798 rebellion and make our way up a forest road into Fraughan Rock Glen, a lovely secluded valley of rocky outcrops and heather and bilberry clad slopes. Steadily gaining height as we climb Lugnaquilla, we reach the broad northern ridge of the mountain which we use to gain access to the summit plateau, a wide expanse of wind swept short vegetation, before reaching the large summit cairn.

Lugnaquilla is the highest mountain in Co. Wicklow at 931 metres (3054 ft.) and one of the ‘4 summits’. (The highest point in each province of Ireland).

From the summit we head east, down another broad ridge, taking in the superb views as the whole of the Wicklow mountains are laid out before us, before dropping down to Art’s Lough and into the forest. Soon we reach a forest track and the final leg down through the trees and back to our cars.

Please note this hike is on rough mountain hillside that includes rocky sections and wet slippery ground. It is essential that you wear appropriate mountain footwear, especially in the wetter months of the year. You may be turned away by the guide if you arrive in runners.

Equipment

• Good hiking boots and waterproof clothing are essential (without these you may be excluded from the hike).
• Walking trousers are advised or comfortable athletic clothing (NO jeans please).
• Spare warm layer; hat and gloves.
• Lunch and/or snacks; water or juice drink, (1.5 litres); small rucksack to carry it all in.