The best waterfall hikes and walks around Bigland Woods

Bigland Woods offers over a dozen dedicated waterfall hiking trails, catering to various skill levels. These routes lead through ancient woodlands and past tranquil tarns, providing a diverse outdoor experience.

The waterfall hikes in Bigland Woods range from easy strolls to moderate climbs. You'll find 8 easy routes and 6 moderate routes, ensuring options for different fitness levels. For example, the Satterthwaite Slab loop from Satterthwaite is an easy 3.3-mile path, while the Force Mills Green Lane Gate – Three Blind Mice Singletrack loop from Colton is a moderate 4.9-mile trail with a steady elevation gain.

Yes, many of the waterfall hikes in Bigland Woods are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Wood Moss – High Jack Side loop from Satterthwaite, which is 3.8 miles long, and the longer Satterthwaite Slab – Grizedale Tarn loop from Satterthwaite at 6.3 miles.

Beyond the waterfalls themselves, you'll encounter ancient semi-natural woodlands, tranquil tarns like Bigland Tarn and Bigland Barrow Tarn, and gentle hills offering varied scenery. Some routes may also pass through parts of the Roudsea Wood and Mosses National Nature Reserve.

Yes, Bigland Woods offers several family-friendly waterfall trails. The varied terrain includes easily accessible paths and well-maintained routes, some even featuring boardwalks in boggy areas. Look for the 'easy' graded hikes, such as the Satterthwaite Slab loop from Satterthwaite, which are generally suitable for families.

Many trails in Bigland Woods are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the waterfall hikes with your canine companion. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock or in nature reserve areas, and to check specific trail regulations before you go.

The trails in Bigland Woods are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.5 stars from nearly 1,000 reviews. Hikers often praise the serene woodlands, varied terrain, and the peaceful atmosphere of the tarns and water features.

While hiking the waterfall trails, you might encounter Bigland Barrow, one of Wainwright's Outlying Fells, which offers splendid panoramic views from its summit lookout tower towards the Coniston Fells and Leven Estuary. The area also features atmospheric woodlands like Birk Dault Wood.

Bigland Woods is appealing year-round. Spring brings fresh greenery and blooming flora, while autumn offers vibrant foliage. Waterfalls are often at their most impressive after periods of rain, which can occur throughout the year. Summer provides pleasant temperatures for hiking, and winter can offer a unique, tranquil experience, though paths may be muddier.

While Bigland Woods is primarily accessed by car, some routes may be reachable via local bus services to nearby villages like Satterthwaite or Haverthwaite. It's recommended to check local bus timetables for the most current information when planning your trip.

Parking is typically available at trailheads or in nearby villages such as Colton or Satterthwaite, which serve as starting points for many routes. Always look for designated parking areas and be mindful of local regulations.

For those seeking a longer adventure, the Clockwork Tree – Sheltered Seat Sculpture loop from Satterthwaite is a moderate 7.8-mile trail with over 1,000 feet of elevation gain, offering a more extended exploration of the varied landscape.