The best walks and hikes around Forest And Frith

Yes, the area is well-suited for circular hikes. Many trails are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. These routes often combine riverside paths along the River Tees with sections across open moorland, offering varied scenery. A great example is the Cow Green Reservoir & Cauldron Snout loop, which provides a challenging but rewarding circuit in the heart of the North Pennines.

Trail conditions vary depending on the route. Paths along the River Tees, especially between Low Force and High Force, are generally well-maintained. However, routes that venture onto the open moorland or around Cow Green Reservoir can be rugged, boggy, and exposed to the elements. Proper waterproof hiking boots are strongly recommended for most walks in this region.

Dogs are welcome on many public footpaths, but it's crucial to keep them under close control, especially on moorland. This area is part of the North Pennines National Landscape, which is important for ground-nesting birds between April and July. You will also encounter livestock grazing in many areas, so keeping your dog on a lead is essential to protect wildlife and farm animals.

Absolutely. The region offers several shorter, less strenuous walks perfect for families. A popular choice is the Wynch Bridge – Low Force Waterfall loop from Newbiggin. This gentle 3-mile (5 km) trail is a great introduction to the beauty of Teesdale and includes the excitement of crossing the historic Wynch Bridge.

Forest and Frith is famous for its waterfalls. The most dramatic is High Force, where the River Tees plunges over a cliff. Nearby, you'll find the beautiful cascades of Low Force. For a wilder experience, head to Cauldron Snout, a long and powerful cataract below Cow Green Reservoir. The Low Force Waterfall – High Force Waterfall loop is an excellent route for seeing two of the area's most impressive falls.

The difficulty ranges from easy to challenging. There are about 7 easy routes, often following gentle riverside paths. The 10 moderate trails typically involve more varied terrain and some elevation gain. For experienced hikers, there are also 7 difficult routes, such as the long moorland trek to High Cup Nick from Cow Green Reservoir, which demand good fitness and navigation skills.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Hikers frequently praise the stunning natural scenery, particularly the powerful waterfalls like High Force and Cauldron Snout. The sense of wild remoteness on the moorland trails and the well-maintained paths along the River Tees are also commonly highlighted.

Yes, there are several parking options. For walks around High Force and Low Force, the Bowlees Visitor Centre car park is a popular starting point. If you plan to hike around Cow Green Reservoir and Cauldron Snout, there is a dedicated car park at the reservoir itself. Arriving early is recommended, especially on weekends and holidays, as these spots can fill up quickly.

Several villages in and around Teesdale have traditional pubs that can be incorporated into a hike. Middleton-in-Teesdale and Langdon Beck are good places to look for routes that start or finish near a pub, offering a perfect way to relax after a day on the trails. You can plan your route to pass through one of these settlements for a rewarding break.

The North Pennines is a haven for wildlife. While hiking, you might spot a variety of birdlife, including lapwing, curlew, and red grouse on the moors. The area is also known for its unique flora, including rare arctic-alpine plants like the spring gentian, especially around the sugar limestone soils near Cow Green Reservoir. Keep an eye out for red squirrels in the wooded areas as well.

Accessing the trailheads via public transport can be challenging due to the remote nature of Upper Teesdale. Limited bus services run through the dale, primarily connecting towns like Barnard Castle and Middleton-in-Teesdale. It's best to check the most current bus timetables in advance, as services can be infrequent, particularly on weekends.

The Pennine Way, one of Britain's most famous National Trails, passes directly through this area. This section is known for its dramatic scenery, following the River Tees past Low Force, High Force, and up to Cauldron Snout. It's considered one of the most beautiful parts of the entire trail, but also one of the more challenging, with rugged paths and remote moorland crossings.