Ireland boasts a wealth of hiking opportunities tailored for ultralight backpackers. With its varied landscapes, clearly defined trails, and its closeness to stunning natural scenery, this nation offers an ideal setting for adventurers seeking excitement.

Within this article, we delve into the realm of ultralight backpacking in Ireland, providing you with the essential information required for your upcoming adventure.

Among other details, we will outline the leading 5 trails in each classification: day hikes (covering distances less than 30 miles) and multi-day trips that offer resupply options at least every two days.

Key Tips for Backpacking in Ireland

• Wildlife: Wildlife in Ireland is not harmful. Just be careful about ticks, which can spread diseases, and be ready for annoying midges, those small flies that can bother you.
• Wild camping: Wild camping in Ireland isn’t officially allowed by law, but it’s often accepted in many isolated and mountainous places. Moreover, the Northern Ireland Forestry Service provides camping permits at certain sites.

Top 5 Day Hikes (Under 30 Miles)

Here are the top day hikes where ultralight gear truly enhances your experience:

1. Spinc and Glenealo Valley (5.9 miles). See on AllTrails.
2. Coumshingaun Lough and Kilclooney Loop (4.9 miles). See on AllTrails.
3. Bog of Frogs Loop (10.5 miles). See on AllTrails.
4. Carrauntoohil Mountain and Devil’s Ladder Loop (7.3 miles). See on AllTrails.
5. Cliffs of Moher – Hag’s Head (6.5 miles). See on AllTrails.

Top 5 Multi-Day Trips

Top multi-day trails in Ireland with resupplies every two days:

1. Wicklow Way: Dundrum to Clonegal (79.6 miles). See on AllTrails.
2. The Dingle Way (113.5 miles). See on AllTrails.
3. The Kerry Way (133.6 miles). See on AllTrails.
4. The Beara Way (130.6 miles). See on AllTrails.
5. Ireland Coastal Loop (1336.4 miles). See on AllTrails.

Annual Weather Averages

Before making your gear selection, take a look at the weather statistics for Ireland: