Having holidayed in this part of Donegal for almost 30 years I had long wanted to climb Muckish but found it invariably covered in mist or low cloud. Today was one of the few rain-free days you get in Donegal so I decided to take the chance and finally bag this fantastic mountain while the going was good. As I approached the Muckish Gap from the south via the R251 I started to have second thoughts as it really did look enormously high - perhaps too much for a relatively inexperienced hillwalker like myself. Nevertheless I parked up beside the shrine at the Muckish Gap (B999 269 D) and proceeded up following paulocon's route. Getting up the grassy lower foothills was no problem though somewhat boggy. However once turning the corner onto the vast SE face of Muckish things started to become more difficult - a very long, very steep climb through deep heather. Each step upwards seemed to sap the energy from me. At about 500m I considered turning back as my legs felt like jelly but I pressed on after a short rest. I found it easier going over the rocky scree section near the top as at least it was something to dig into compared to the heather. Eventually I reached the summit plateau where my energy levels lifted to continue the climb to the trig pillar which stands at 666m. I had read about the lunar-like surface of Muckish may times but to actually get up there and see it for myself was fantastic. Unfortunately much of the path on top is starting to become very badly eroded. On a fabulous day like this views extended over much of Donegal - I could easily make out the four other hills I have climbed in this county. The view SW towards Errigal and the three Aghla's was something I will never forget. I returned to the car by way of ascent. Very tired but with an immense sense of satisfaction at finally conquering Muckish. Only my second summit over 2000ft and the most difficult one so far. Total trip up and down - a rather gruelling 2 hours. Linkback: https://mountainviews.ie/summit/163/comment/6111/