The best walks and hikes around Bowland Forest High

Bowland Forest High offers a wide network of trails. On komoot, you can find nearly 30 hiking routes, ranging from easy riverside strolls to challenging fell walks across the moorlands.

Yes, there are several easy routes suitable for families. For a gentle outing, consider the Dunsop Bridge & River Hodder loop, which offers a relaxed walk along the river. The region's picturesque villages like Dunsop Bridge and Chipping also provide charming starting points for shorter, less strenuous walks.

Hikers can enjoy expansive views across wild moorlands, gritstone fells, and tranquil river valleys. From many vantage points, especially on peaks like Clougha Pike or Longridge Fell, you can see across the fells, and on clear days, even the distant Lake District and Morecambe Bay. The View of the Forest of Bowland – Trough of Bowland Viewpoint loop offers excellent vistas.

Yes, many routes in Bowland Forest High are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the challenging Dunsop Bridge loop, or the scenic Langden Valley – Cut Mark at Langden Castle loop.

The region is rich in natural beauty. You can explore prominent fells like Clougha Pike, Parlick Fell, and Ward's Stone. The Trough of Bowland itself is a renowned mountain pass offering stunning scenery. Additionally, ancient woodlands and river valleys provide diverse landscapes to discover.

Yes, Bowland Forest High is generally dog-friendly, offering many trails through varied terrain. However, please be mindful that much of the area consists of working farmland and moorland, so dogs should be kept under close control, especially near livestock or during ground-nesting bird seasons. Always follow the Countryside Code.

The Forest of Bowland offers distinct beauty throughout the year. Spring brings new life and vibrant greens, while summer provides longer daylight hours for extended hikes. Autumn is particularly stunning with the changing colors of the woodlands. Even winter offers dramatic, quiet landscapes, though some higher routes may be more challenging due to weather conditions.

Yes, several picturesque villages within and around Bowland Forest High offer amenities for hikers. Dunsop Bridge, often considered the geographical center of the UK, has a cafe and a pub. Other villages like Slaidburn, Chipping, and Downham also provide charming stops for refreshments.

The trails in Bowland Forest High are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 300 reviews. Hikers often praise the region's tranquil atmosphere, diverse landscapes, and the sense of wildness found on its moorland paths.

Absolutely. Bowland Forest High is known for its challenging gritstone fells and expansive moorlands, offering excellent opportunities for long-distance hikes. Routes like the Dunsop Bridge loop, at over 18 km with significant elevation gain, provide a good test for experienced hikers. The region also features sections of longer trails like the Ribble Way.

Public transport options within the Forest of Bowland can be limited, especially to more remote trailheads. It's advisable to check local bus services for specific villages like Dunsop Bridge or Slaidburn, but for many routes, driving and parking at designated spots is the most practical way to access the trails.

Parking is generally available in or near the main villages and popular starting points for trails. Dunsop Bridge, Slaidburn, and Gisburn Forest often have dedicated parking areas. Always check for local signage and any parking fees that may apply.