Croagh Patrick: Pilgrimage
IF YOU HAVE REACHED THE SUMMIT and accessed us through the sign on the summit - WELCOME!!
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD YOUR PHOTO WITH OUR SIGN TO YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA PLEASE USE THE HASHTAG #TOPOFTHEREEK OR #BARRNACRUAICHE
FOR DIRECTIONS TO CROAGH PATRICK CAR PARK CLICK HERE FOR GOOGLE MAPS LINK
PLEASE NOTE THAT THERE ARE NO TOILET FACILITIES ON THE MOUNTAIN
PLEASE CHECK FOR ANY WEATHER WARNING THAT MIGHT BE IN PLACE!!!
If you intend to climb the mountain make sure you are aware of the weather conditions!
Please consult Mountaineering Ireland's Good Practice Guide and Mayo Mountain Rescue for advice
BRIEFING FOR PILGRIMS ISSUED JULY 2022
Croagh Patrick is an iconic feature of the Mayo landscape of significant natural, cultural and spiritual importance. While the National Pilgrimage Day on Croagh Patrick stretches back many generations, we are conscious of the obligation to support the conservation of the mountain for future generations.
The Church has actively engaged with other Stakeholders to undertake the Sustainable Access and Habitat Restoration project currently underway on it which aims to provide a robust path for access and to restore the eroded parts of the mountain. As part of our support for the project, we have committed to minimising the impact of pilgrimage on Croagh Patrick, the drinking water that comes from the mountain streams, the local community and other users of the mountain. In order to do this, we ask each pilgrim to comply with the following;
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If traveling by car, please park responsibly and follow the instructions of stewards on the day.
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Stay on the defined path on the mountain (where in place) and do not encroach on the adjoining habitat which may be in the process of restoration.
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The mountain streams provide drinking water for the local community. Be respectful of this while on the mountain.
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We endorse the Leave no Trace Principle. Please do not discard any litter on the mountain.
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It should also be noted that there are no dogs allowed on the mountain. Please respect this requirement.
Any local advice offered should be heeded - be aware that the path is on working farmland. Dogs should not be brought on the mountain at any time.
Please make sure that you are familiar with the Leave No Trace Principals
Details of how to fulfil the spiritual requirements of the pilgrimage are available here
Croagh Patrick is a challenging climb and should only be attempted after serious consideration.
More information is available here.
Please note the following:
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All pilgrims should heed the instructions of the Mountain Rescue Teams, Order of Malta and An Gárda Síochána at all times.
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Pilgrims should follow the instructions and guidelines issued by Mayo Mountain Rescue
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The Pilgrimage Stations are explained at the base of the mountain and are available here
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Any priest wishing to celebrate the Sacraments on the summit must produce a valid Celebret.
