Grade: Strenuous
Markings: The route is marked with Yellow walking pilgrim and arrows – Linear Trail
Distance: 35km Estimated time: 8/10hrs (Full Day or over two days)
Total height climbed:
Highest point:
Terrain underfoot: Forest trail, fields, country roads, boggy terrain and mountain paths
Suitable for: Walkers with a good level of fitness.
Travers throug one of Irelands oldest Pilgrim paths.
This trail, which follows the path of an ancient chariot road, traverses over 100 stiles within the picturesque County Mayo.
Along its meandering course, it unfolds before pilgrims, revealing fairy hills, ancient relics, and enigmatic locales where the enduring legends of St. Patrick continue to thrive.
Notes: This is a long route with some very remote parts, halfway point in the small village of Aughagower.
Map and Guidebook Available on Checkin at Ballintubber Abbey
Registration fee €25 per person - Full Tóchar Pahdraig (This can be completed over one or two days)
€20 per person - Half Tochar
Minimum of two walkers permitted at any time.
No dogs allowed as much of the trail goes through farmlands.
🎒 What to Bring:
Sturdy footwear – waterproof hiking boots are ideal.
Weather-appropriate clothing – dress in layers and include a rain jacket.
Sun protection – sunscreen and a hat, weather permitting.
A packed lunch and plenty of snacks – there are no food provisions on the route.
Reusable water bottle(s) – bring enough water for the entire walk.
Tissues or biodegradable wipes
Personal medication
Walking poles (optional but helpful)
A small backpack to carry everything comfortably.
Spare socks – for added comfort.
Please note that there are no public toilets directly along the trail itself, walkers can access facilities before departure at
Ballintubber Abbey and again at the halfway point in Aughagower Village.
Map and Information Booklet
Hi-Vis Jacket
Certificate of Completion
Drop off and pick up service are not available on self guided walks
Registration & Declaration:
All walkers must register at Ballintubber Abbey Visitor Centre before beginning the trail.
At registration, you will be asked to sign or present a declaration that exempts Ballintubber Abbey Trust and the farmers from liability in the event of an accident or mishap. This may also be completed online prior to the Walk.
You will be issued with a hi-vis jacket, a route map, trail guide, and an official walker’s stamp. Hi-vis jackets must be worn at all times during your walk so landowners can identify you as a registered pilgrim
Check in time from 9:30am at Ballintubber Abbey Visitor Centre and Giftshop - Located arount the Cloister Area of the Abbey.
Essential Information for Pilgrims Walking Independently
Thank you for choosing to walk the Tóchar Phádraig privately.
This is a sacred and ancient pilgrimage route that passes through working farmland and privately owned lands. To protect your safety and preserve the trust of our generous landowners, please read the following guidelines carefully:
👣 Walking in Pairs – No Exceptions For health and safety reasons, a minimum of 2 walkers is required at all times. Solo walking is not permitted under any circumstances. This is for your own safety as you will be crossing farmland, uneven terrain, and isolated areas.
🚫 Strict No-Dog Policy - Absolutely no dogs are allowed, regardless of temperament or training. This is non-negotiable and in respect of the livestock and landowners who allow access to their land.
🚸 Children & Youth Walkers - Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
The Pilgrim Paths Passport can be purchased at Registration at Ballintubber Abbey at a cost of €5 per passpost, once you have completed the full trail (Ballintubber Abbey to Crough Patrick) you can have the Passpost Stamped at Campbell’s Pub, Murrisk which is located at the entrance to the carpark at Croagh Patrick. Passposts can be obtained for patrons doing the walk in two stages, Ballintubber to Aughower, Aughower to Crough Partick however you must register and pay for each walk.