Standing on Ireland’s wild Atlantic edge is always unforgettable, but if you’re planning to walk the Cliffs of Moher coastal trail, a few important updates will shape how you experience it.

Cliffs of Moher viewed from the cliffs trail

Cliffs of Moher Coastal Trail Update: What’s Open and What’s Not

The Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre is fully open, and the Cliffs of Moher Coastal Trail is also open – but they are no longer directly connected.

That’s the key change travelers need to understand.

You can still enjoy both experiences, but you cannot step from the Visitor Centre onto the long-distance cliff trail like you could in the past. Access points at the centre have been closed, even though the trail itself remains open.

This article is based on podcast episode 335 featuring Ollie Gleeson, owner of Ollie's Tours, a Doolin-based provider of Cliffs of Moher tours and other adventures.
Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

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What You Can Do at the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre

The Visitor Centre still offers:

Easy access viewpoints
Views from atop O’Brien’s Tower
A maintained walking area (roughly 500 meters each direction)
Exhibits, facilities, and parking

It’s a great option if you want iconic views without a long hike – but it’s not the full cliff walk experience.

What’s Happening with the Cliffs of Moher Coastal Trail

The coastal trail from Doolin toward the cliffs remains open and is still one of the most rewarding walks in Ireland.

However:

The southern section beyond the Visitor Centre towards Hags Head is currently closed
Trail improvements are in progress but limited by seasonal restrictions

Repairs have already improved sections near Doolin, making parts of the walk easier and less muddy than before.

How to Walk the Cliffs of Moher Trail Right Now

If your goal is to actually hike the cliffs, you’ll want to start in Doolin – not at the Visitor Centre.

Start from Doolin for the Best Experience

From Doolin, you can:

Walk approximately 7 km (about 4 miles) toward the cliffs
Enjoy uninterrupted coastal views along the way
Reach areas just short of the Visitor Centre

This route delivers the dramatic scenery most people expect when they picture the Cliffs of Moher.

Use the Shuttle for a “Best of Both Worlds” Day

From May through late summer (possibly into September), a free shuttle bus operates from Doolin to the Visitor Centre.

A smart plan:

Walk the cliff trail from Doolin
Return to town for lunch
Take the shuttle to the Visitor Centre for additional views

This lets you experience both the rugged hike and the classic viewpoints in one day.

Parking in Doolin

You’ll find several parking options:

Paid parking on Fisher Street (near shops and pubs)
Parking at Doolin Pier
Limited parking at businesses like Hotel Doolin (for customers)

Plan ahead and avoid leaving your car where it’s not permitted for the day.

Should You Walk with a Guide?

You don’t need a guide, but there are a few reasons you might want one.

Ollie Gleeson with my tour group before our walk to Doolin (2023)

Benefits of a Guided Walk

Navigation and logistics are handled for you
Safety support on uneven or exposed sections
Local stories and history bring the landscape to life

The trail can include narrow paths, uneven footing, and changing weather conditions, so having someone who knows the terrain can make a big difference.

If You Go on Your Own

Keep these tips in mind:

Wear proper footwear (hiking boots recommended)
Expect mud in places, especially after rain
Stay well back from cliff edges
Don’t underestimate wind conditions

Even on calmer days, the Atlantic weather can shift quickly.

Weather on the Cliffs: What to Expect

There’s a saying in Ireland: there’s no bad weather, only bad clothing.

At the cliffs, that feels especially true.

Conditions can include:

Strong winds (sometimes strong enough to push sea spray upward)
Sudden rain showers
Bright sunshine
Sometimes all in the same hour

Dress in layers, bring waterproof gear, and be ready for anything. Including mud.

Meet Your Guide: Ollie Gleeson

Ollie Gleeson is a local guide from County Clare who leads daily tours along the Cliffs of Moher and to the Aran Islands.

His offerings include:

Guided cliff hikes from Doolin
Aran Islands experiences, including Inisheer visits
Bike tours and even proposal or vow renewal experiences

His focus is simp...