Dublin isn’t just about lively pubs and historic landmarks—it’s also home to some incredible hiking trails that offer breathtaking views, fresh sea air, and a refreshing escape from the city buzz.
Having tried some of these hikes in Dublin myself, I can say they showcase the city’s diverse landscapes, from rugged cliffs to serene woodlands.
Whether you’re looking for a scenic coastal walk, a challenging hill climb, or a peaceful forest trail, there’s something for everyone in this list of hikes.
Best Hikes In Dublin
The Howth Cliff Walk
One of the most breathtaking hikes in Dublin, the Howth Cliff Walk is a must-do for anyone looking to experience stunning coastal views, fresh sea air, and a moderate hiking challenge.
The Howth Cliff Walk is a looped trail that takes you along rugged cliffs, offering panoramic views of the Irish Sea, Ireland’s Eye, and even the Wicklow Mountains on a clear day.
Check out my detailed guide to the Howth Cliff Walk for more information.
Killiney Hill Hike
For those seeking a hike with panoramic views, a manageable climb, and a peaceful escape, Killiney Hill Hike is one of the best hikes in Dublin.
Located in South Dublin, this short but rewarding trail offers breathtaking views of the Dublin Bay, Wicklow Mountains, Bray Head, and even the coast of Wales on a clear day.
The hike up Killiney Hill is relatively easy, making it perfect for casual hikers, families, and anyone looking for a quick adventure.
Check out my detailed guide to Killiney Hill for more information.
Ticknock
For those looking for a more challenging hike with stunning views over Dublin, the Ticknock Hike is a fantastic choice.
Nestled in the Dublin Mountains, this trail takes you through forests, rocky trails, and open hilltops, offering some of the best panoramic vistas of the city, Dublin Bay, and beyond.
Ticknock is part of the larger Dublin Mountains Way and is known for its well-maintained trails and breathtaking scenery. The most popular route leads to Fairy Castle, a Neolithic passage tomb at the summit of Two Rock Mountain, standing at 536 meters.
Bohernabreena
For a peaceful and scenic escape into nature, Bohernabreena Reservoir Walk is one of the most tranquil hikes in Dublin. This hidden gem in the Dublin Mountains offers a beautiful mix of forest trails, river views, and mountain landscapes.
It’s an ideal spot for walkers, runners, and nature lovers looking for a relaxing hike away from the crowds.
The trail runs alongside the River Dodder, surrounded by lush woodlands, rolling hills, and breathtaking reflections on the water.
Tibradden Woods
This trail takes you through ancient woodlands, rugged landscapes, and up to a Neolithic burial cairn, offering a mix of nature, history, and breathtaking scenery.
The hike begins in a dense forest of Scots pine, oak, and larch, eventually opening up to panoramic views over Dublin City, the Wicklow Mountains, and the Irish Sea.
Carrickgollogan
Located near Kilternan, this scenic trail takes you through lush forests, open landscapes, and up to an incredible panoramic viewpoint. Carrickgollogan is a small hill standing at 276 meters, making it an easy and accessible hike.
The trail winds through quiet forest paths before leading up to the summit, where you’ll be greeted with breathtaking views of Dublin Bay, the Wicklow Mountains, and the Irish Sea. On a clear day, you can even spot the Great Sugar Loaf and Bray Head in the distance.
The Hellfire Club
One of the most mysterious and thrilling hikes in Dublin, the Hellfire Club Hike combines history, legend, and stunning views over the city.
The trail begins in Massy’s Wood, a beautiful forest filled with towering trees, hidden ruins, and trickling streams. As you climb up Montpelier Hill (383m), the forest clears, revealing spectacular views of Dublin City, Dublin Bay, and beyond.
Best Hikes Near Dublin
Bray Head Walk
If you’re looking for a scenic coastal hike near Dublin, the Bray Head Walk is one of the best. The summit is marked by a large stone cross, making it a popular spot for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers.
Once you reach the summit cross, take a moment to soak in the breathtaking panoramic views, stretching from Dublin to the Wicklow Mountains. On a clear day, you can even spot Howth Head in North Dublin.
Check out my detailed guide to Bray Head Walk for more information.
Ballinastoe Woods Walk
Having personally experienced this trail, I can say that it’s truly breathtaking, offering a mix of dense forests, wooden boardwalks, and panoramic views over the Wicklow Mountains.
The walk takes you through tall pine forests, where sunlight filters beautifully through the trees, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. As you follow the wooden boardwalk, you’ll be treated to one of the most stunning viewpoints in Wicklow—overlooking the iconic Lough Tay (Guinness Lake) and the rolling mountains beyond.
Check out my detailed guide to Ballinastoe Woods Walk for more information.
Lough Ouler
Located in the Wicklow Mountains, this trail leads to Ireland’s famous heart-shaped lake, making it a dream destination for hikers and photographers alike.
Though the trail can be steep and rugged, reaching the summit is worth the effort. From above, you’ll see Lough Ouler’s distinctive heart shape, making it one of the most photogenic hiking spots in Ireland.
I made the mistake of wearing unsuitable shoes for this hike, and it got me in a lot of trouble. The terrain is steep, uneven, and can get very boggy, so having proper hiking boots is essential.
Check out my detailed guide to Lough Ouler for more information.
Glendalough
If you’re looking for one of the most picturesque and historic hikes near Dublin, Glendalough should be at the top of your list.
Located in the Wicklow Mountains National Park, this area is famous for its stunning lakes, scenic trails, and ancient monastic ruins, making it an ideal destination for both casual walkers and experienced hikers.
Glendalough, meaning “Valley of the Two Lakes”, offers a range of trails with breathtaking views, from easy lakeside strolls to challenging mountain hikes.
Loughcrew Cairns
For those looking for unique hikes near Dublin that combine history, mythology, and breathtaking views, the Loughcrew Cairns hike is a must-visit.
The hike itself is short but steep, making it accessible to most fitness levels while still being a bit of a challenge.
Inside Cairn T, you’ll find intricate stone carvings, including solar alignments that allow sunlight to illuminate the chamber during the spring and autumn equinoxes—a truly magical sight if you time your visit right!
Lugnaquilla
As the highest mountain in Leinster, standing at 925 meters, this hike offers incredible panoramic views over the Wicklow Mountains and beyond. However, this is not a casual walk—Lugnaquilla is a serious mountain hike that requires good preparation and proper gear.
The Lugnaquilla hike is a demanding ascent, but the effort pays off when you reach the flat-topped summit, where you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world, and on a clear day, you can see as far as Wales.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the most difficult hike in Ireland?
Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s highest mountain (1,038m), is considered the most difficult due to its steep climbs, unpredictable weather, and tough terrain.
What are the big three hikes in Ireland?
The “Big Three” usually refer to Ireland’s most challenging and iconic hikes:
- Carrauntoohil (Kerry) – Highest peak in Ireland.
- Lugnaquilla (Wicklow) – Highest in Leinster.
- Mweelrea (Mayo) – Highest in Connacht, with stunning coastal views.
Is Dublin good for hiking?
Yes! Dublin is surrounded by beautiful trails in the Dublin and Wicklow Mountains, offering hikes for all levels, from coastal walks (Howth Cliff Walk) to challenging mountain treks (Lugnaquilla).
What is the longest hike in Ireland?
The Ireland Way is the longest, spanning 1,000 km from Cork to Antrim, combining the Beara-Breifne Way and the Ulster Way.
Conclusion
Dublin offers incredible trails for all levels, from coastal paths to mountain summits. Whether scenic or challenging, hikes in Dublin promise adventure, breathtaking views, and unforgettable outdoor experiences.
Hope you enjoyed reading this guide. If you have any more questions, please comment below and also share your experience with me if you’ve experienced any of these hikes. Have fun and be safe!
