Torc Waterfall
A breathtaking cascade in Killarney National Park, surrounded by a magical, moss-draped forest. Easy access with rewarding hiking trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the weekend rush
Torc Waterfall
Best Time
Beat the weekend rush
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking cascade in Killarney National Park, surrounded by a magical, moss-draped forest. Easy access with rewarding hiking trails.
"The forest is incredible. It was almost like being in a surprise tropical rain forest."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The path to the falls is easy, but the steps up to higher viewpoints can be steep. :athletic_shoe:
🚗 Parking Lot Access
A car park is conveniently located near the waterfall, making it easily accessible. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Torc Waterfall Cascade
Base of Torc Mountain
A majestic 20-meter high cascade, fed by the Owengarriff River, surrounded by moss-covered trees and lush ferns.
Torc Mountain Trails
Killarney National Park
Explore scenic hiking paths through dense, shaded forests with towering trees and a magical, green canopy.
Devil's Punchbowl Viewpoint
Upper Torc Mountain Trail
Ascend the steps for a higher vantage point, offering views over the Middle Lake and the surrounding Killarney landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Torc Waterfall
Embrace the Hike, Not Just the Falls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The path to the falls is easy, but the steps up to higher viewpoints can be steep. :athletic_shoe:
🚗 Parking Lot Access
A car park is conveniently located near the waterfall, making it easily accessible. :car:
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond the Falls
Don't just see the waterfall; hike the surrounding trails for a truly magical forest experience. :hiking_boot:
📸 Capture the Greenery
The moss-covered trees and ferns create a unique, almost tropical rainforest feel. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The path to the falls is easy, but the steps up to higher viewpoints can be steep. :athletic_shoe:
🚗 Parking Lot Access
A car park is conveniently located near the waterfall, making it easily accessible. :car:
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond the Falls
Don't just see the waterfall; hike the surrounding trails for a truly magical forest experience. :hiking_boot:
📸 Capture the Greenery
The moss-covered trees and ferns create a unique, almost tropical rainforest feel. :camerawithflash:
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Combine your visit with Muckross House and other Killarney attractions for a full day of exploration. :clock1:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Torc Waterfall for its stunning natural beauty, particularly the lush, moss-covered forests that create a magical atmosphere. The accessibility from the car park is a plus, though some note the steepness of the steps to higher viewpoints. While it can get crowded, the overall experience is highly regarded as a beautiful stop within Killarney National Park.
"We spent the day exploring Killarney National Park. Torc Waterfall was a lovely little stop. We found the parking lot easily. From there it's about a 5 minute easy walk to the falls. The forest is incredible. It was almost like being in a surprise tropical rain forest. It was amazing how the landscape of this immediate area is so different from other parts of the area. The trees are covered with moss. There are giant ferns all over the place. I think there were about a hundred different colors of green. It was glorious. The falls themselves are beautiful. Lots of visitors but people were very polite."
Tia Pirkl
"Don't be lazy and walk up to the top and into the park. There you'll be surrounded by the scent of nature. Nature will show you its beauty."
Alona Shegluk
"Torc Waterfall is lovely, especially in early June when it’s flowing strong—but what really stood out was the trail itself. Surrounded by dense, lush forest and shaded by towering trees, it’s a peaceful and easy walk. The quiet, green canopy makes the whole experience feel almost magical."
Zongle
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Torc Waterfall is located about 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) from Killarney town. You can drive there, with a car park available near the falls. Public transport options like coach buses are also available from Dublin to Killarney, and then local transport or a taxi can take you to the park.
Yes, there is a car park conveniently located near Torc Waterfall, making it easily accessible for visitors.
While direct public transport to the waterfall itself might be limited, you can take a coach bus from Dublin to Killarney, and then arrange local transport or a taxi to reach the Killarney National Park and Torc Waterfall.
Yes, Torc Waterfall is situated within Killarney National Park and is a popular stop along the famous Ring of Kerry scenic drive.
The best way to experience Torc Waterfall is to combine a visit to the falls with a hike on the surrounding trails in Killarney National Park. This allows you to appreciate both the waterfall and the beautiful natural scenery.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Torc Waterfall and the surrounding Killarney National Park are free to enter and explore.
Torc Waterfall is accessible year-round, with no set opening or closing hours as it is an outdoor natural attraction.
No, tickets are not required for Torc Waterfall as it is a free public attraction.
There are no specific restrictions for visiting Torc Waterfall, but it's always advisable to respect the natural environment and follow park guidelines.
The main path to the waterfall is short and easy, making it suitable for most ages. However, the steps to higher viewpoints can be challenging for those with mobility issues.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
A quick visit to see the waterfall itself takes about 15-30 minutes. However, to explore the surrounding trails and viewpoints, you could easily spend 1-2 hours or more.
To avoid crowds, aim for weekday mornings or late afternoons. Visiting after rainfall will also ensure the waterfall is flowing strongly.
Yes, there are toilet facilities located very close to the car park at Torc Waterfall.
The initial walk to the waterfall is short and easy. For more challenging hikes, there are steps leading to higher viewpoints and trails up Torc Mountain, offering elevation change and scenic views.
Torc Waterfall's name comes from the Irish word for 'wild boar.' Legends tell of a man cursed by the devil to transform into a wild boar each night, living in a cavern beneath the cliffs. 
📸 📸 Photography
The base of the waterfall offers great shots, but climbing the steps to the higher viewpoints provides stunning panoramic views of the falls and the surrounding Killarney National Park.
Yes, autumn is a beautiful time to visit Torc Waterfall, with vibrant fall colors enhancing the natural scenery.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the waterfall and the lush forest. A tripod can be useful for longer exposures, especially in lower light conditions. :camerawithflash:
Drone usage regulations can vary, so it's best to check with Killarney National Park authorities before flying a drone.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, soft lighting for photography, and also helps avoid the midday crowds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the main path is accessible, be mindful of the steps leading to higher viewpoints, which might be challenging for very young children or strollers. However, the initial view is impressive enough for most. Consider bringing snacks and drinks, and encourage your children to explore the forest floor (safely, of course!) to discover the unique mosses and ferns. It's a great spot for a picnic and a breath of fresh air.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Redditors often recommend exploring beyond the immediate waterfall area to truly appreciate the park's beauty. Look for trails that lead to higher viewpoints for panoramic vistas of the lakes and mountains, or simply enjoy the peaceful, moss-draped forest that many describe as magical. Remember to wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for varying weather conditions.
📸 Photographers
Don't limit yourself to ground-level shots; the steps leading to higher viewpoints provide unique angles and breathtaking panoramas of the falls and the surrounding Killarney landscape. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the scale of the waterfall and the expansive forest. The vibrant greens and textures of the moss and ferns make for incredibly rich and detailed shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Killarney National Park
Beyond the immediate vicinity of Torc Waterfall, the park offers numerous hiking and walking trails. The Torc Mountain trail provides a more strenuous option with rewarding panoramic views. For those seeking a less demanding experience, the paths around the lakes and Muckross Abbey are equally beautiful. The 'Devil's Punchbowl' is a dramatic corrie lake on Mangerton Mountain, which feeds the Owengarriff River that forms Torc Waterfall. The sheer variety of landscapes and activities makes Killarney National Park a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Many visitors find the lush, moss-covered forests surrounding Torc Waterfall to be a unique and magical aspect of the park. The dense canopy, towering trees, and abundant ferns create an almost tropical atmosphere, a stark contrast to other parts of the region. This 'magical' ambiance is frequently mentioned in reviews and social media posts, highlighting the immersive natural beauty of the area.
The Legend and Lore of Torc Waterfall
+1Another legend associated with the waterfall involves a magical wild boar that was said to roam the area. The story suggests that the waterfall was created as a result of this boar's presence or actions. These ancient tales contribute to the enchanting atmosphere of the location, inviting visitors to imagine the mythical creatures and events that may have once inhabited this wild landscape.
+1While the legends are captivating, the natural beauty of the waterfall is undeniable. The Owengarriff River cascades down a steep incline, creating a powerful and picturesque scene, especially after periods of rain. The surrounding dense woodland, adorned with moss and ferns, further enhances the mystical feel, making it easy to understand why such legends might have originated here.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit