Easy hikes and walks around Lunedale

Easy hikes in Lunedale typically feature a mix of riverside paths, expansive moorland, and fells. You'll find routes traversing the valley carved by the River Lune, often with views of the Selset and Grassholme Reservoirs. While generally gentle, some paths may involve slight inclines as you explore the eastern side of the Pennines.

Yes, Lunedale offers several easy circular walks. For instance, the High Force Waterfall – Low Force Waterfall loop from High Force is a popular 6.1 km route that allows you to experience two impressive waterfalls. Another option is the Low Force Waterfall – Wynch Bridge loop from High Force, which is 6.5 km and includes the historic Wynch Bridge.

Lunedale's easy trails offer views of significant natural features. You can explore the River Lune, the expansive moorland, and the fells like Cronkley and Mickle Fells. The area is also home to Selset Reservoir and Grassholme Reservoir. Nearby, you can visit spectacular waterfalls such as High Force Waterfall and Cauldron Snout Waterfall, or cross the historic Wynch Bridge.

Yes, Lunedale is a highly protected natural area. Over 50% of the broader Teesdale area, which includes Lunedale, lies within the North Pennine Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). It also encompasses Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), a Special Area of Conservation (SAC), and a Special Protection Area (SPA), highlighting its ecological significance.

Many easy hiking trails in Lunedale are well-suited for families. Routes that stick to riverside paths or reservoir perimeters tend to be flatter and less strenuous. For example, the Footbridge over the River Tees – High Force Waterfall loop from High Force is a shorter, easy option at just over 3 km, offering engaging sights for children.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on Lunedale's hiking trails. However, as much of the area is expansive moorland and protected conservation land, it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, especially during nesting seasons for ground-nesting birds and when livestock are present. Always follow local signage and keep your dog on a lead where required.

Lunedale offers enjoyable hiking experiences throughout the year, but spring and summer are particularly pleasant for easy walks, with milder weather and blooming flora. Autumn brings vibrant colours to the moorland. Winter walks can be beautiful, especially after snowfall, but require appropriate gear and caution due to potentially colder, wetter, or icy conditions on exposed fells.

While Lunedale itself is quite rural, you can find amenities in nearby villages. Middleton in Teesdale, for example, offers options for cafes and pubs where you can refresh after your hike. The Decorative Drinking Fountain loop from Middleton in Teesdale starts directly from this village, making it convenient for pre or post-hike refreshments.

The easy trails in Lunedale are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 700 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, the scenic beauty of the reservoirs and waterfalls, and the peaceful atmosphere of the moorland and fells.

Yes, some easy trails provide excellent vantage points for the North Pennines. The Decorative Drinking Fountain – View of the North Pennines loop from Middleton in Teesdale is a 4.3 km route that offers expansive views of the surrounding fells and the broader North Pennine landscape.

Lunedale offers a good selection of easy hiking trails. There are 39 routes specifically graded as easy, providing plenty of options for gentle exploration of the area's natural beauty.