Ireland 4 Peaks Challenge®
Slieve Donard – 850m
Lugnaquilla – 925m
Carrauntoohil – 1038m
Mweelrea – 814m
Total Ascent : 3627m
Total Distance : 60km
Overview
Welcome to the Official Ireland 4 Peak Challenge® involves climbing the highest mountain in each of Ireland’s four provinces — a thrilling endurance adventure often completed in a single continuous push. The mountains are Carrauntoohil in Munster, Mweelrea in Connacht, Lugnaquilla in Leinster, and Slieve Donard in Ulster. The challenge is growing in popularity as a test of stamina, teamwork, and mental grit — and is often used to raise funds for charity.
Key aspects of the challenge
Mountains
Carrauntoohil (Munster): Ireland’s highest peak – 1,038m (3,406 ft)
Mweelrea (Connacht): Western Ireland’s highest peak – 814m (2,671 ft)
Lugnaquilla (Leinster): Highest peak in the east – 925m (3,035 ft)
Slieve Donard (Ulster): Northern Ireland’s highest peak – 850m (2,789 ft)
Timeframe
The challenge is typically attempted and completed within 44 hours, including travel time between peaks.
Logistics
Participants travel by our Platinum private Coach, supported by our experienced logistics team. All routes are planned for efficiency and safety, with rest and refuelling coordinated between peaks.
Fitness
A strong level of fitness and mountain experience is essential. The challenge involves long hikes, steep climbs, and continuous movement — often with little sleep. Mental toughness is just as important as physical strength.
Preparation
Training beforehand is crucial, we provide a 12 week training plan. Participants should be ready for changeable Irish weather, and come equipped with waterproof clothing, sturdy hiking boots, headlamps, and nutrition to fuel the journey.
Charitable causes
The Ireland 4 Peak Challenge is increasingly undertaken for charitable causes, with many participants raising funds for local and national organisations through their efforts.
Leave No Trace
As a responsible guiding company, we operate by Leave No Trace principles.
We treat nature as our home, ensuring every footprint is respectful and every route sustainable.
Elite Guiding team
Every challenge is led by the Jason Black Mountaineering elite guiding team, international expedition leaders, Everest & K2 summiteers, and global ambassadors for the pure approach to human-powered exploration. You’re in the safest and most experienced hands.
Ready to Rise?
Rise with the mountain, take on Ireland’s wildest endurance adventure and push beyond your limits. Book your place today and become part of something extraordinary.
National 4 Peaks (Private Booking)
36 Hours
Direct
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Booking Form
Ireland 4 Peaks Challenge®
Practical Info
Frequently asked questions
The following frequently asked questions may help answer any queries you have about Jason Black Mountaineering, what this expedition involves, and what is required. If your question isn’t answered here please check our dedicated Expert Advice page, otherwise don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Mandatory
- Walking boots (with ankle support, not trail shoes or trainers)
- Head Torch (as backup)
- Waterproof jacket and trousers
- Hiking socks (wearing a single pair recommended, rather than using a liner sock)
- Backpack (approx. 20 litre size)
- Water container (bottle or Camelpak-style, 1-2 litres)
- Food & hill snacks (pasta, cereal bars, dried fruit, nuts)
- Gloves
- Hat (covering ears)
Recommended, optional
- Sunglasses & suncream
- Walking poles
- Light shoes / sandals
- Thermal underwear
- Backpack rain cover
- Recommended clothing
- Walking trousers (lightweight hiking trousers, not jeans or tracksuit trousers)
- Sports top (not cotton)
- Warm outer layer
- Changes of clothes
- Personal First Aid kit
- Foot care kit
- Blister care packs
- Antiseptic cream
- A tick hook
- Duct tape
- Triangular bandage
- A wound dressing
- A crepe bandage
- A roll of general purpose medical tape
- A selection of plasters and/or Compeed-style blister plasters
- Scissors or a knife
- A few pairs of rubber or plastic gloves

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