How far do I have to walk?

The full route is 17km long, with an altitude gain of 384m.
The shorter option is 9km long, with an altitude gain of 185m (the northern half of the full Fig-8 route).
Participants will be briefed on the walk and will be given a copy of the Walk Route Map. The route will also be signposted and marshalled.

Where and when?

Galway Wind Park - SSE Renewables, outside of Oughterard (Eircode: H91 K46D)
Please allow plenty of time, aim to arrive an hour before your start time.

What do I get out of it?

A sense of accomplishment, a unique experience and maybe some snacks. Oh, and you'll get a branded neckwarmer/multifunctional headwear all included in the ticket price.

How much does it cost to participate in the virtual challenge?

• Early bird adult tickets are €25 (+fees) each until 17th of September, after which point the price goes up, so grab them quickly!
• Child tickets (12-17 y/o) are €10(+fees) each

Sounds great. How do I sign up?

• Early Bird tickets will go on sale on 27th August at 6am, until 17th September at 11.30pm.
• From 18th September until 7th October, full price tickets will be available.
• Tickets will be available from https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/howl-at-the-moon-2022-tickets-400692852107

What are the "waves"?

To reduce queuing and congestion on the walk, we plan to release walkers in two waves:

• Wave 1 at 6.00pm
• Wave 2 at 6.30pm

BUT, please arrive well before this, you'll need to allow time for car parking, shuttle bus to the start point, registration etc! We suggest arriving 1 hour before your start time.

Are there ID or minimum age requirements to enter the event?

The event is open to adults and children aged 12 to 17. Children must be accompanied by an adult aged at least 23 years at all times.

What are my transport/parking options for getting to and from the event?

Parking will be available within the Wind Park and shuttle buses will ferry participants between the car park and the start.

When do I have to decide if I'm doing the long or short route?

You can decide during the walk, there will be a checkpoint at the point where the path splits.

Will there be food and water?

Please bring a full water bottle to the walk, but we will provide food and drinks at the finish line for all.

What can I bring into the event?

Participants are advised to prepare carefully for this event and to check the weather forecast in advance. Suitable footwear (i.e. walking boots or sturdy trail runners), a waterproof/windproof jacket and a torch are essential.

As this is a long walk on gravel trails in darkness, we recommend all participants should carry a small backpack containing:

• Clothing should be adequate for the conditions - warm, and no jeans.
• Rain gear
• Suitable footwear for a rough terrain (boots, not runners)
• Head torch / Torch with spare batteries**
• Hat and gloves.
• Basic first aid kit including bandages/ plasters/ compeed.
• Water (a hot drink may also be useful) and food
• Mobile phone (fully charged and working)

Can I bring my pet dog?

While we are sure your pet dog is awesome, he/she cannot join us on the night. While we are also big fans of dogs, we cannot be sure that everyone who is participating will feel the same way.

What if I have questions?

You can send an e-mail to our registration team at howl-customer-support@gmrt.ie or tweet at us on @howlatmoon_ie

Howl at the Moon Supporters

Organised with support from Coillte, SSE Ireland, Galway County Council and Penn Engineering, proceeds from this event will be used to support Galway Mountain Rescue Team's long-term objective of constructing a dedicated mountain rescue base.