Torc Waterfall
Waterfall Scenic waterfall near Killarney, accessible woodland trails
Downstream from Killarney, Torc Waterfall sits in Killarney National Park’s oak woodlands; walkers follow short trails to the cascades, use higher paths for views of Muckross Lake, and spot native holly and birch.
Torc Waterfall is a well-known waterfall in County Kerry, Ireland, located within Killarney National Park and notable for its single-drop cascade and accessibility.
The main fall drops roughly 20 metres into a rocky plunge pool and is set at the base of Torc Mountain. There are defined viewing platforms at the lower fall and a short path that leads to an upper vantage point; linked footpaths connect the site to longer walks in the park.
The falls are natural and not a constructed feature; they form part of the Owengarriff River system and sit where upland streams descend to the Killarney valley. The surrounding paths and forested slopes are used for walking and short hikes rather than technical climbing.
Situated about 7 km west of Killarney town, the waterfall occupies a wooded slope at the foot of Torc Mountain within the boundaries of Killarney National Park, easily reached by car and on marked park trails.
- Height and river: The waterfall drops approximately 20 metres and sits on the Owengarriff (Owengarriff) River, making it an accessible single-tier cascade with a defined plunge pool.
- Access and viewpoints: A short walking route from the nearby car park leads to a lower viewing platform and an upper viewpoint; the walk takes roughly 15-30 minutes depending on the route chosen.
- Location and seasonality: Located inside Killarney National Park, it lies about 7 km west of Killarney town and is frequently visited year-round, with summer being the busiest season.
How to Get to Torc Waterfall #
Torc Waterfall is about 7 km from Killarney town; drive via N71 and follow signposts, or take local buses and short taxi rides. Walking routes from Killarney’s town center are well-marked and popular.
Tips for Visiting Torc Waterfall #
- Arrive early from Killarney town (about 7 km) to secure parking and avoid tour-bus crowds later in the day.
- Combine the waterfall walk with a climb of Torc Mountain for a longer day hike and better panoramic views.
- Use the Old Weir Bridge route for a gentle walk through sylvan woods and to avoid the steeper track from the upper car park.
Best Time to Visit Torc Waterfall #
Best in late spring and summer for easy access and clearer weather; autumn brings dramatic light and fewer tourists.
Weather & Climate near Torc Waterfall #
Torc Waterfall's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with cool summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 2°C to 17°C. Abundant rainfall (1763 mm/year), wettest in December.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 7°C and lows of 2°C. Heavy rain (212 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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February
February is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of 3°C. Significant rainfall (156 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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March
March is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 3°C. Significant rainfall (156 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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April
April is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 4°C. Regular rainfall (99 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 6°C. Significant rainfall (109 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is cool with highs of 15°C and lows of 9°C. Regular rainfall (94 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is cool with highs of 17°C and lows of 11°C. Regular rainfall (92 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is cool with highs of 17°C and lows of 11°C. Significant rainfall (119 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is cool with highs of 15°C and lows of 9°C. Significant rainfall (138 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 7°C. Significant rainfall (181 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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November
November is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of 4°C. Significant rainfall (194 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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December
December is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 3°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (213 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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