Beenkeragh
Mountain Mountain peak in MacGillycuddy's Reeks, challenging climbs
Beenkeragh in Kerry’s MacGillycuddy’s Reeks is Ireland’s second‑highest peak; hillwalkers tackle its narrow ridge and scrambling routes as part of higher Reeks traverses.
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Beenkeragh is a mountain in County Kerry, Munster, Ireland, and stands at approximately 1008 metres, making it the second-highest summit in the Republic of Ireland. It forms part of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks range.
The mountain is best known for the narrow, rocky Beenkeragh Ridge that links its summit to nearby Carrauntoohil; this exposed ar9te is a prominent feature and a classic scrambling route for experienced hillwalkers. The summit and ridge offer extensive upland views on clear days and are frequently included in multi-peak routes across the Reeks.
Beenkeragh is a natural mountain feature used traditionally for grazing and, in modern times, for recreational hillwalking and mountaineering. It lies within the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks massif in County Kerry, in southwest Ireland.
- Elevation: 1008 m; the second-highest peak in the Republic of Ireland.
- Ridge scramble: The ridge between this summit and Carrauntoohil is an exposed scramble commonly attempted by experienced hikers; conditions can be hazardous in wet or windy weather.
What to See #
- Beenkeragh Ridge: A narrow rocky ar9te linking the summit to nearby Carrauntoohil; the ridge is exposed and requires scrambling skills, making it a defining feature of the peak.
How to Get to Beenkeragh #
Typical access is from the Gap of Dunloe or from the car park at Cronin’s Yard near Killarney. The starting point is about a 30-45 minute drive from Killarney town; local guides operate from Killarney.
Tips for Visiting Beenkeragh #
- Avoid the western corrie after heavy rain - the rock can be slippery and the ridge route becomes exposed in wind.
- Bring navigation tools for the ridge: mist descends quickly and the spine of the Reeks gives no shelter.
- Start from Cronin's Yard (the common trailhead) early to allow time for the ridge and to avoid late-afternoon cloud buildup.
Best Time to Visit Beenkeragh #
Best in late spring through early autumn when ridge conditions are most stable and days are longest.
Weather & Climate near Beenkeragh #
Beenkeragh's climate is classified as Subpolar Oceanic - Subpolar Oceanic climate with cool summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in February). Temperatures range from 2°C to 14°C. Heavy rainfall (2526 mm/year), wettest in January.
January
January is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of 2°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (293 mm), mostly overcast skies, and windy conditions.
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February
February is the coolest month with highs of 6°C and lows of 2°C. Heavy rain (220 mm), mostly overcast skies, and windy conditions.
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March
March is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of 2°C. Heavy rain (226 mm), mostly overcast skies, and windy conditions.
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April
April is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 2°C. Significant rainfall (152 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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May
May is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 4°C. Significant rainfall (160 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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June
June is cool with highs of 13°C and lows of 7°C. Significant rainfall (138 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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July
July is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 9°C. Significant rainfall (141 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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August
August is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 9°C. Significant rainfall (178 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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September
September is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 7°C. Heavy rain (204 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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October
October is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 5°C. Heavy rain (259 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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November
November is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of 3°C. Heavy rain (267 mm), mostly overcast skies, and windy conditions.
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December
December is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of 2°C. Heavy rain (288 mm), mostly overcast skies, and windy conditions.
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