I went on the first weekend of February with 2 friends. I am not a hiker or climber at all but I do consider myself decently fit. I was nervous about not being fit enough for the climb but I managed. It was tough. Took exactly 4 hours and 23 minutes altogether. It was amazing. The views were beautiful all the way up. I definitely recommend having some hiking boots as the terrain is very uneven. Although people do it in their bare feet so not the end of the world if you dont have any. I also used proper hiking sticks which were very helpful. Bring gloves and layers. It got VERY cold at the top even though we got very lucky with the weather in general. The summit is very steep but worth it for the 360 views.

If you like a hike and are in the area i would well recommend croagh patrick. Start at the car park in Murrisk where there are toilets and shops for drinks/snacks then make your way up the footpath. Would recommend good boots and layers of clothing as conditions can change as you climb. Also waterproofs in case of rain. The climb is steady to a ridge area where the wind is powerful, you can buy sticks at the base which help with balance at this point and on the descent. There are toilets on the way up and at the top should you need them. The last bit is a steep incline which was demanding as we did it in snow but the views at the top are worth it. It took 4 and 1/2 hours frim start to finish and got a great sense of achievement when completed. Give it a go but dont forget to be well equipped.

This Holy Mountain is the best pilgrimage spot in Ireland along with Knock & Clonmacnoise. There's a lot of grace available here. I recommend climbing in silence, praying a rosary and meditating on the sorrowful mysteries. The climb could take anywhere from an hour & a half to two hours if you're an experienced hiker. A bit longer if not, and I recommend pacing yourself. It gets steep at parts although it's much easier now that the steps are in & you don't have to worry about all the sliding rocks. Also it's nice with a companion if you're up for some good conversation to help ease any struggle!

The views were amazing! Our weather was perfect for a March day! Layers are important as you climb higher the wind and temps will get colder. Slow and steady will get you to the top and back again! This climb is not for the faint of heart. My feet are still sore, but I did it! I would make sure you are in decent shape for the climb. It was an all day experience for our group.

A tough climb. You need to be fit. New path is indeed safer but steps are not flat but with jagged edges. Concentration is needed going up and down. I found it caused dizziness. Proper hiking boots thoroughly recommended. I saw so many people with ridiculous shoes. Its a great achievement when you reach the top and even better when you get down!

This holy mountain is truly magnificent and well worth a visit. We stopped for rests along the way which gave us a chance to take in the breathtaking views from this beautiful place. The climb is a tough one but once you are prepared and take your time it can be done. A huge thank you to the wonderful locals who put so much time, energy and hard work into the steps. It made this climb a lot easier than previous ones.

We climbed Croagh Patrick on the June Bank holiday Saturday. It was a beautiful sunny day and when we arrived at 9.30am the car park was already nearly full at this time. Parking is €1.20 for first hour but you can get a €3 ticket that covers 12 hours and that is what we got. There is a small cafe, ice cream van, benches and toilets located in the car park. The hike up the mountain is almost constantly up hill. However, you can easily step off the main path for a short break and enjoy the views. Around mid way up (or a little after) the walk flattens out for a little bit and there is toilets but we did not use. The last section of the climb is where the new steps are and these are a great job. You still need to take care and watch your footing (particularly coming down) and some of the steps are very small and jagged. However, there is no slipping and sliding and we did not need (or even take) a stick with us. When you get to the top you are rewarded with amazing panoramic views. We got our picture took beside the Croagh Patrick sign and had lunch close to the small church before make our decent back down the mountain. Just to note that the main trail was very busy with people. A few people were even doing the walk barefoot. All in all a great hike especially when you have some amazing weather as well did.

Fab view from climb. I would be fairly fit but found tough enough. Hiking boots and stick are needed. Also warm rain jacket, we had a shower of sleight half ways up. Toilet half ways closed down which is a shame. Also church on top closed and looking in poor shape. Lovely walk and well worth doing

Climbing the Croagh Patrick mountain is a great experience for a first timer like me. The people behind the beautiful path and trail did a great job to made our visit a bit easier and more safety. The view along the way gives you motivation to continue the walk. And once you reach the summit you will be amazed with the spectacular view of the nearby villages, islands and mountains. It is indeed worth the climb and definitely do it again whenever I have the chance.

This is a very tough climb regardless of your level of fitness or endurance. We must have picked the worst day weather wise to visit. It rained throughout and when we got to the top we couldn’t see in front of us. But that’s nature for you. I’m sure on a clear sunny day it would be lovely but it’s still a tough climb regardless. I’m glad I’ve done it and completed but would not do again.