The best walks and hikes around Hazlewood With Storiths

Yes, the area is excellent for circular hikes. Many trails are designed as loops, so you can start and end in the same place without retracing your steps. These routes explore the varied landscape of moorland, woodland, and riverside paths. A great example is the Beamsley Beacon and Ling Park loop from Bolton Bridge, which offers fantastic views from the top of the beacon.

Dogs are often welcome on the public footpaths around Hazlewood and Storiths. However, you will be crossing farmland with livestock and walking through areas with ground-nesting birds, especially on the moors. It is essential to keep your dog on a lead and under close control at all times. The riverside paths are particularly popular with dog walkers.

Parking is available at several locations, most notably at the Bolton Abbey estate car parks, which serve as a starting point for many popular routes. These are pay-and-display and can get busy. For walks starting directly from Storiths, there is limited on-street parking, so it's best to arrive early and park considerately.

The area offers several options for families. The paths along the River Wharfe are generally flat and well-maintained, making them suitable for walkers of all ages. A walk to Storiths Crag is also a shorter, rewarding option that provides great views without a strenuous climb.

The most well-known waterfall in the area is Posforth Gill. You can see it on the Hazlewood Moor and Posforth Gill Waterfall loop. The Valley of Desolation also features a series of picturesque waterfalls along its path.

The ascent to Simon's Seat is considered a challenging hike. It involves a significant climb over rough and sometimes boggy terrain to reach the gritstone summit at 485 meters. While demanding, the panoramic views of Wharfedale from the top are a fantastic reward. The Simon's Seat and The River Wharfe loop is a popular but difficult route that includes this climb.

The Strid is a famous natural landmark where the River Wharfe is forced through a narrow, rocky channel, creating powerful rapids. It's a dramatic and scenic spot. You can easily incorporate it into a walk by following the riverside paths from Bolton Abbey. The River Wharfe loop from Bolton Abbey is a moderate walk that takes you right past it.

For a more solitary experience, consider exploring the paths across Hazlewood Moor. While routes to Simon's Seat and along the river can be popular, the moorland trails often provide a greater sense of peace and immersion in the heather-clad landscape. A walk through the Valley of Desolation can also be quiet, especially outside of peak times. The Cavendish Pavilion – Valley of Desolation loop is a good option.

There are over 590 hiking routes to explore around Hazlewood With Storiths. The trails range from easy riverside strolls to moderate moorland loops and difficult ascents to prominent peaks, offering plenty of options for all fitness levels.

The hiking routes around Hazlewood With Storiths are very highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the stunning views from the moorland peaks, the scenic beauty of the riverside paths along the Wharfe, and the mix of woodland and open country.

Accessing the area by public transport can be challenging. Bus services may run to nearby villages, but they are often infrequent. Most visitors arrive by car to have the flexibility to reach the various trailheads, such as those at Bolton Abbey or near Storiths village.