The best walks and hikes around Broxa-Cum-Troutsdale

A popular starting point for many walks in Broxa Forest is the Reasty Hill Top car park. From here, you can access trails that offer excellent views over Harwood Dale. Another option is parking within Dalby Forest, which provides access to a different network of trails, though a toll fee may apply.

Yes, the area is generally very dog-friendly. The wide tracks in Broxa Forest and the open spaces of the North York Moors are great for walking with dogs. However, always be mindful of wildlife, especially during bird nesting season, and keep dogs on a lead where livestock is present.

Broxa-Cum-Troutsdale is a sparsely populated rural parish, and public transport options are very limited. Accessing the main trailheads, such as those in Broxa Forest, is most conveniently done by car. It's best to check local bus schedules in advance as services to nearby villages may be infrequent.

Yes, there are several options suitable for families. For a shorter, engaging walk, consider the Deepdale Habitat Trail — Dalby Forest. This easy 1.4-mile (2.3 km) route is designed to be accessible and is a great way to introduce children to the local woodland environment.

The terrain is varied. You'll find everything from well-maintained gravel tracks in Broxa Forest to more rugged, narrow paths in the dales. Some woodland sections can become muddy, especially after rain, so waterproof hiking boots are recommended. The landscape includes gentle valley walks and some steeper climbs to escarpment edges.

The region is excellent for circular walks. Many routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point without retracing your steps. A good example of a longer, more challenging loop is the Langdale Rigg End and Langdale Forest loop, which covers 11.2 miles (18 km) through varied forest and rigg landscapes.

Broxa Forest's mix of coniferous woodland, broadleaved trees, and heathland supports a diverse range of wildlife. Birdwatchers may be particularly interested in the chance to spot the nocturnal nightjar, which is a notable summer resident. The varied habitats also provide a home for other woodland birds and creatures.

While not directly in Broxa, there are some beautiful waterfalls a short drive away that can be incorporated into a day out. Mallyan Spout Waterfall near Goathland is a well-known local beauty spot, accessible via a scenic walk. Another popular choice is Hayburn Wyke, where a woodland trail leads down to a secluded cove with a waterfall that flows directly onto the beach.

The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with trails earning an average rating of 4.5 stars. Hikers often praise the sense of remoteness, the stunning views from escarpments like Barn's Cliff, and the peaceful atmosphere of the forests and dales.

There is a wide selection of routes to explore, with over 340 trails mapped on komoot in and around the region. These range from short, easy strolls to challenging all-day hikes, ensuring there's a path for every fitness level.

Hiking in Broxa-Cum-Troutsdale is rewarding in all seasons. Spring and summer bring the woodlands to life and offer the best chance to see wildlife like the nightjar. Autumn provides stunning colours in the mixed woodlands, while crisp winter days can offer clear, far-reaching views across the dales, though trails can be muddy.