The best waterfall hikes and walks in Dartmoor

Dartmoor offers a wide selection of waterfall hiking trails, with over 60 routes available. These range from easy strolls to more challenging treks, ensuring there's something for every hiker.

Yes, Dartmoor has several easy waterfall hikes perfect for beginners and families. For instance, the Lydford Castle & Whitelady Waterfall loop of Lydford Gorge is an easy 5.4 km trail that takes about 1 hour 27 minutes. Another great option is the Large Mushroom Sculpture – Whitelady Waterfall loop, a shorter 2.3 km path through wooded river valleys.

Beyond the captivating waterfalls, Dartmoor's trails wind through diverse landscapes. You'll encounter expansive moorland, distinctive granite tors, and deep-cut river valleys often cloaked in ancient woodlands. Keep an eye out for unique geological formations and the famous Dartmoor ponies grazing freely. Many trails, especially around Lydford Gorge, offer views of dramatic canyons and rivers like the Devil's Cauldron.

Absolutely. While many trails are moderate, Dartmoor also offers more strenuous options. For example, the Lydford Gorge – Whitelady Waterfall loop is a moderate 7.5 km path that winds through the ancient gorge, providing a more immersive experience with varied terrain. There are 9 difficult routes in total for those seeking a greater challenge.

Yes, many of Dartmoor's waterfall trails are designed as circular routes, allowing you to experience diverse scenery without retracing your steps. The Lydia Bridge Waterfall – Shipley Bridge loop is a moderate 10.5 km circular hike that offers beautiful waterfall views and returns you to your starting point.

The waterfall trails in Dartmoor are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 5,400 reviews. Hikers often praise the dramatic scenery of places like Lydford Gorge, the tranquility of the ancient woodlands, and the unique geological features like the granite tors.

Dartmoor is generally very dog-friendly, and many trails welcome well-behaved dogs. However, it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock, ground-nesting birds, or in areas with steep drops like gorges. Check specific trail guidelines for any restrictions, particularly within nature reserves or privately managed areas like Lydford Gorge, which may have specific rules for dogs.

The best time to visit Dartmoor for waterfall hikes is typically after periods of rain, when the waterfalls are at their most impressive. Spring and autumn offer lush landscapes and fewer crowds, with comfortable temperatures for hiking. Summer can be beautiful but may see lower water levels. Always be prepared for changeable weather conditions on the moor.

Dartmoor is rich in history. Many trails, including those near waterfalls, can lead you past ancient sites. For example, the Lydford Castle & Whitelady Waterfall loop passes by Lydford Castle. The wider Dartmoor area is known for its Bronze Age archaeology, including stone circles and hut circles, which you might discover on routes that venture onto the open moorland.

Given Dartmoor's often unpredictable weather and varied terrain, it's advisable to wear waterproof and windproof layers, even on sunny days. Sturdy hiking boots with good grip are essential, as paths can be rocky, muddy, or slippery, especially near waterfalls. Bringing extra layers, a hat, and gloves is also recommended, particularly for higher elevations.

Yes, Dartmoor is full of fascinating places. Near many waterfall trails, especially those around Lydford Gorge, you can explore dramatic canyons and river features. Other areas of Dartmoor offer stunning viewpoints like Sharp Tor (Teign Gorge), or tranquil lakes such as Haytor Quarry Pond and Foggintor Quarry Lake, providing diverse scenery to complement your waterfall adventure.