The best walks and hikes in Tipperary

Tipperary offers a wide variety of hiking trails, catering to all experience levels. You'll find everything from challenging mountain ascents in the Galtee and Knockmealdown ranges to tranquil woodland paths and gentle riverside strolls. There are over 160 routes available, including 83 easy, 71 moderate, and 10 difficult trails.

Yes, Tipperary has several excellent options for families. The Clare Glens Loop Trail is an easy 2.3-mile walk through a picturesque wooded gorge with waterfalls, perfect for a shorter outing. Another easy option is the Tountinna & Graves of the Leinster Men trail, offering scenic views and a manageable distance.

For trails featuring waterfalls, the Clare Glens area is highly recommended. The Clare Glens Loop Trail and the Clare Glens Annagh River loop both lead you through a beautiful red sandstone gorge with numerous cascades, creating a tranquil atmosphere.

Many of Tipperary's trails are circular, offering varied scenery without retracing your steps. A challenging example is the Galtymore and Cush Mountain loop in the Galtee Mountains. For a moderate option, consider the Ballyhourigan Woods to Keeper Hill Loop.

Tipperary's hiking trails are often close to significant historical and natural attractions. You can explore impressive castles like the Rock of Cashel or Cahir Castle. The region also features beautiful lakes such as Lake Muskry, often found within mountain ranges like the Galtees.

The hiking routes in Tipperary are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 350 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse landscapes, from challenging mountain ascents to peaceful woodland walks, and the stunning panoramic views across the county.

Many trails in Tipperary are suitable for dogs, though it's always best to keep them on a lead, especially in areas with livestock or protected wildlife. The Glen of Aherlow offers numerous walking routes through woodlands and open moorland that are generally dog-friendly. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.

For challenging mountain hikes, the Galtee Mountains are a prime destination. The Galtymore and Cush Mountain loop is a difficult 7.8-mile trail offering panoramic views. The Knockmealdown Mountains also provide demanding ascents, such as the Knockmealdown Peak via Sugarloaf Hill route.

Yes, the Slieve Felim Mountains offer extensive hiking opportunities. While not explicitly listed in the top routes, the Slieve Felim Way is a notable 43km linear route that provides spectacular views across the countryside, including the Slieve Felim range itself, the Silvermine Mountains, and Lough Derg.

The best time to hike in Tipperary is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to September) when the weather is milder and days are longer. However, the diverse terrain means that woodland and valley walks can be enjoyable year-round, while mountain routes are best tackled in drier, clearer conditions.

Yes, the eastern shores of Lough Derg, which borders Tipperary, offer beautiful walking trails. The Lough Derg Way is a well-known route featuring open countryside, minor roads, and riverside pathways, providing stunning views of the freshwater lake.

Absolutely. The Galtee Mountains are home to several corrie lakes. The Lake Muskry Trail is a moderate 5.4-mile hike that takes you to Lake Muskry, the largest corrie lake in the range. Another option is the Lough Curra Trail, which also explores a scenic lake setting.