LUGNAQUILLA
2 summits
14 KM
6 HRS
900 M
Difficult
WALKING ROUTE
Our hike will start from the Baravore Car park in the stunning Glenmalure Valley. Depending on weather and the group we have two main routes which we can take. Ideally, we will complete the loop walk via Arts Lough, the summit of Cloghernagh followed by the summit of Lugnaquilla. We then descend via the Fraughan Rock Glen. Alternately we can summit Lugnaquilla via the Fraughan Rock Glen and then retrace our steps, this option is a little easier and takes less time than the loop walk. We aim for the loop walk when possible.
We will begin on tracks and trails and walk through some of the old mining areas before leaving the beaten track behind and ascend towards Art’s Lough. The views of the Fraughan Rock Glen and Art’s Lough are beautiful. The trail in this area is uneven, rough and boggy, it’s adventurous but very manageable. From Art’s Lock we ascend steeply up the shoulder of Cloghernagh. From this summit weather permitting, we will have excellent views on the Wicklow Mountains!
From Cloghernagh the slow gradual ascent to Lugnaquilla begins. The trail here becomes better however the work isn’t over yet as the slow rising spur to the summit of Lugnaquilla is nearly 3 kms long. Once we reach the summit of Lugnaquilla we will have a short break for photos, snacks and water etc. before we descend the Northern spur down towards the Fraughan Rock Glen.
As we enter the Fraughan Rock Glen the terrain becomes steeper in places and is often wet and boggy. The setting however is stunning, with high cliffs on one side, a mountain river and it’s cascading waterfalls on the other side, and often, Peregrine Falcons circling above. As we re-join the forest track at the bottom of the waterfall area it’s easy going down the trail back to the carpark.
Throughout the walk we will discuss some of the wonderful flora and fauna on the Wicklow Mountains. We take plenty of breaks for photos, snacks and water. We will keep a slow pace. This hike is graded hard and moderate levels of fitness are required. See required equipment list below.
WALK INFORMATION
- Professional and qualified Mountain Leader.
- First aid trained and certified leader to REC 3/ Wilderness First Aid 3 standard.
- Fully insured activity and staff.
- Information and insights into the upload flora and fauna.
- Insights into local history and geology.
- Fun, engaging and informative Mountain Leader.
- Personal equipment as listed in the "required equipment" list.
- Food and refreshments.
- Transport.
- Car parking fees.
- Accommodation.
- Personal accident insurance.
- Hiking boots - It can be wet and boggy with off trail sections and open mountainside.
- Clothing suitable for hiking/sport - Avoid cotton/ jeans etc.
- Raingear - Waterproof jacket and leggings.
- Water & Nutrition/Food/Snacks.
- Extra layers such as a fleece jumper.
- Hat & gloves.
- SPF - even if it’s not sunny.
- Bug spray - There can be midge and ticks from spring to autumn.
- Any medications you may need.
- Small rucksack to hold the above items.
- Spare clothing such as socks/tops/bottoms/shoes for after the hike - you don’t need to carry these, leave them in the car for your return.
- Walking sticks if you normally use them.
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