Dovedale's stepping stones – Dove Holes Caves loop from Ashbourne

Hiking trails & Routes

Dovedale's stepping stones – Dove Holes Caves loop from Ashbourne

Hard

4.9

(12)

hikers

Dovedale's stepping stones – Dove Holes Caves loop from Ashbourne

07:08

24.7km

580m

Hiking

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.

Last updated: August 19, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through protected areas

Please check local regulations for:

Peak District National Park

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

1.93 km

View of Mapleton from the River Dove

Highlight • River

Mapleton is a pretty Derbyshire village just south of the Peak District National Park. It's close to the River Dove and makes a nice loop from Ashbourne if you walk …

Tip by

6.82 km

Dovedale's stepping stones

Highlight • River

The Stepping Stones make for a quirky crossing of the River Dove. In the middle of the stones, be sure to look around and admire the stunning scenery. The stones …

Tip by

8.54 km

Boardwalk Along the River, Peak District National Park

Highlight • Viewpoint

Much narrower here. Still passable with a pram.

Tip by

9.04 km

Dovedale is renowned for its beautiful rock formations, created by water, ice and wind erosion over the millennia. Some of the exposed limestone has formed magnificent structures, towering above the …

Tip by

9.61 km

Dove Holes Caves

Highlight • Historical Site

Dove Holes are a series of three impressive caves beside the River Dove. They were formed around 350 million years ago by glacial meltwater. It’s great fun climbing up into the caves but take care as the rocks are slippery.

Tip by

11.0 km

Milldale

Highlight • Settlement

Milldale is a secluded village in an attractive location. Lots of visitors come up from Dovedale though. There's a small local shop that sells sandwiches, ice creams and hot drinks. …

Tip by

14.0 km

Dovedale Wood

Highlight • Natural

Dovedale Wood is picturesque woodland that rises steeply from the River Dove. It’s a tough climb through the trees but the rewards are worth it. Rocks and screes which are …

Tip by

16.6 km

Viewpoint

17.7 km