Climbing Nephin, Co. Mayo February 2015

Above the Clouds. Nephin Co. Mayo

This is a beautiful mountain, situated only 30 minutes from Ballina,  that I admire every day I kayak on Lough Conn, which is to the North of the mountain. 

Last weekend (Saturday) I took advantage of the current high pressure over Ireland and climbed Nephin.

What a magnificent pristine mountain. Unlike Mayo's most famous mountain (Croagh Patrick) Nephin gets relatively few visitors. The trail is described as easy but it is challenging enough to keep you warm. I am not a hill walker or mountaineer and I have only ever climbed Croagh Patrick and Nephin(15 odd years ago) but I can honestly say that this is a much nicer climb than Croagh Patrick and has a more remote, wild feel to the area. 

I took the south western route to the summit due to the weather. You can find more details HERE about location and starting point. The trail on the mountain is very small and not easy to find however the terrain is fairly easy. There are a number of false summits on the way up, so dont get too disappointed if you think you are nearly there and realise its further on.  At this time of year the top of the mountain is usually covered in snow and it is cold and windy-so be prepared. 
The only negative point of the climb was when I reached the summit. Somebody had lazily thrown their orange peels on the ground! I know lots of people think they will degrade, but it takes a long time in those conditions and is a real shame to see litter anywhere, especially on such a pristine mountain.
So please try to  Leave No Trace. 

The ascent and descent took me just under 3 hours. But I was alone and a group would take longer. I would highly recommend this climb to anyone.  We are truly blessed to have such an amazing landscape here in North Mayo- lets keep it that way. 

Also check out Wild Nephin Mountain facebook page for more pics and info

On the summit.

Rainbow on the descent