Tara Hill Blue Trail

The estimated walking time for the Tara Hill Blue Trail can vary. While some sources suggest around 2.5 hours, others indicate it can be completed in about 1 hour 15 minutes, depending on your pace and whether you complete the entire loop or just the ascent. The route is approximately 4.2 km long with an elevation gain of about 112 meters.

The Tara Hill Blue Trail is generally considered a moderate hike, though some describe it as strenuous due to significant uphill sections. It's more challenging than the area's Red Trail, so hikers should be prepared for a rewarding climb.

The trailhead for the Tara Hill Blue Trail is located at Ballinacarrig, known locally as the Crab Tree. There is a dedicated car park for hikers, the Tara Hill Trailhead Car Park, which provides convenient access to the route.

You can expect mixed terrain on the Tara Hill Blue Trail. Hikers should prepare for rough underfoot conditions, heather-sloped rocky outcrops, and significant uphill sections that can last up to 10 minutes. Specific outdoor walking footwear is highly recommended.

The best time to hike the Tara Hill Blue Trail is on clear days, as this allows for the most spectacular panoramic views. From the summit, you can see the Wexford and Wicklow coastlines, and on exceptionally clear days, even Mount Snowdon in Wales. Spring and autumn often offer pleasant temperatures and good visibility.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the Tara Hill Blue Trail. However, it's always best practice to keep your dog on a leash, especially given the mixed terrain and potential for wildlife, to ensure their safety and the enjoyment of other hikers.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to hike the Tara Hill Blue Trail. It is freely accessible to the public.

Along the Tara Hill Blue Trail, you'll encounter several interesting features. These include the remains of a famine village, Soldier's Hollow, and Table Rock Viewpoint. The summit is marked by a cairn with a crow's-foot mark, indicating its historical use in military surveys. The Tara Hill Summit Cross also offers expansive views.

From the summit of Tara Hill, you can expect stunning panoramic views. Due to its isolated position, even though it's only 253 meters high, the views are particularly impressive. You'll be able to see the Wexford and Wicklow coastlines, surrounding lowlands, and on clear days, potentially even Mount Snowdon in Wales, Croghan Kinsella, and Oulart Hill.

Yes, the Tara Hill Blue Trail is part of a network of trails. This specific route is also known as Slí na n-Óg and officially includes sections of the 'Blue Trail, Tara Hill' and 'Tara Hill' routes.

While the trail is a looped route with beautiful scenery, its 'moderate' to 'strenuous' difficulty, rough underfoot conditions, and significant uphill sections mean it might be challenging for very young children or those unaccustomed to hiking. Families with older, active children who are experienced hikers may find it rewarding.