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.
Beenkeragh at a Glance#
About Beenkeragh#
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.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Poor | 2° - 6° | -2° | 293 mm | overcast | 88% | 11.2 m/s | 0.0 low | 8.1h |
| February | Poor | 2° - 6° | -2° | 220 mm | overcast | 87% | 11.0 m/s | 0.1 low | 9.7h |
| March | Poor | 2° - 6° | -2° | 226 mm | overcast | 86% | 10.2 m/s | 0.4 low | 11.7h |
| April | Poor | 2° - 8° | 0° | 152 mm | overcast | 85% | 8.5 m/s | 0.7 moderate | 13.8h |
| May | Poor | 4° - 11° | 3° | 160 mm | overcast | 84% | 8.1 m/s | 1.1 high | 15.5h |
| June | Poor | 7° - 13° | 7° | 138 mm | overcast | 84% | 7.4 m/s | 1.3 high | 16.5h |
| July | Poor | 9° - 15° | 12° | 141 mm | overcast | 86% | 7.1 m/s | 1.2 high | 16.0h |
| August | Poor | 9° - 15° | 12° | 178 mm | overcast | 86% | 7.2 m/s | 1.0 moderate | 14.5h |
| September | Poor | 7° - 12° | 6° | 204 mm | overcast | 86% | 8.1 m/s | 0.6 moderate | 12.5h |
| October | Poor | 5° - 10° | 3° | 259 mm | overcast | 87% | 9.5 m/s | 0.3 low | 10.4h |
| November | Poor | 3° - 7° | -1° | 267 mm | overcast | 88% | 10.3 m/s | 0.1 low | 8.6h |
| December | Poor | 2° - 6° | -2° | 288 mm | overcast | 88% | 10.6 m/s | 0.0 low | 7.5h |
