The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Hartington Upper Quarter

There are over 45 dog-friendly hiking routes around Hartington Upper Quarter, offering a wide variety of experiences for you and your canine companion. These range from easy strolls to more challenging full-day hikes.

The terrain in Hartington Upper Quarter is incredibly diverse. You'll find picturesque limestone dales with paths following crystal-clear rivers, such as Beresford Dale and Wolfscote Dale. There are also more challenging routes up prominent hills like Shining Tor, Chrome Hill, and Parkhouse Hill, which offer rugged beauty and stunning views. Some areas, like the Goyt Valley, can be muddy after rain, so appropriate footwear is recommended.

Yes, Hartington Upper Quarter offers several easy dog-friendly options. Many paths along the dales, such as those in Beresford Dale, provide gentle, scenic walks. The Monsal Trail and Tissington Trail, both former railway lines, offer flat, traffic-free routes perfect for a relaxed outing with your dog. For a moderate option, consider the Overflow at Errwood Reservoir loop, which is just under 10 km with manageable elevation.

The region is rich in natural beauty and interesting landmarks. You can explore the dramatic gritstone ridges of The Roaches, or admire the distinctive shapes of Chrome Hill and Parkhouse Hill, known as the 'Dragon's Back.' The Monsal Trail features the breathtaking Headstone Viaduct, offering fine views over the River Wye. For panoramic vistas, consider routes that pass Shining Tor trig point.

Yes, many of the dog-friendly trails in Hartington Upper Quarter are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the View of Shining Tor loop offers a moderate 6.8 km circular hike. Another option is the Errwood Reservoir – Fernilee Reservoir loop, which is a moderate 11 km circular route starting from The Street Car Park.

Spring and autumn are generally considered the best times for hiking with dogs in Hartington Upper Quarter. In spring, the dales are abundant with wildflowers and birdsong, while autumn offers beautiful foliage. Summer can be pleasant, but trails may be busier, and it's important to consider water availability for your dog. Winter hikes are possible, but paths can be muddy or icy, especially at higher elevations.

Parking is available at various points throughout Hartington Upper Quarter, often near popular trailheads or villages. For routes around Errwood Reservoir, there are designated car parks such as The Street Car Park. When planning your hike, it's advisable to check the specific starting point of your chosen route for the nearest parking facilities.

Hartington village itself offers amenities such as cafes and pubs where you can refresh before or after a walk. Many establishments in the Peak District are becoming increasingly dog-friendly, especially in popular hiking areas. It's always a good idea to check with individual venues beforehand to confirm their dog policy.

The komoot community highly rates the dog-friendly trails in Hartington Upper Quarter, with an average score of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from tranquil riverside paths to challenging hill climbs, and the stunning panoramic views. The clear paths and natural beauty make it a favorite destination for hikers with dogs.

For experienced hikers and their dogs looking for a challenge, routes like the Goyt Valley Riverside Path to Shining Tor trig point loop offer a difficult 18.4 km hike with significant elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Shining Tor trig point – Errwood Reservoir loop, which covers over 17 km and features substantial ascents, providing rewarding views.

While many trails in the Peak District are best accessed by car, some routes around Hartington Upper Quarter may be reachable via local bus services. Hartington village itself has bus connections. For specific routes, it's recommended to check local bus timetables and routes in advance to plan your journey to the trailhead.