Best natural monuments around Woodland include a variety of natural and historical sites, offering diverse landscapes for exploration. The area features prominent viewpoints and summits, providing expansive views of the surrounding moorland. These natural monuments are often characterized by unique geological formations and historical significance. Visitors can explore sites that combine natural beauty with historical elements, such as ancient burial mounds.
Last updated: May 19, 2026
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Above Weardale, between Frosterley and Wolsingham are a bunch of trees that are supposed to resemble an elephant. I think a few years ago, a storm caused damage to the trees and now a bit of imagination is needed.
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The Forgotten Quarry (also known as Fine Burn Quarry) is a superb place for a walk during any season. This former limestone quarry forms a part of the Weardale Way, a long-distance footpath that follows the River Wear's journey from the Durham Dales to the North Sea, or vice versa. The path follows the course of a former railway track used to transport the mined limestone. Here, Bollihope Burn – a tributary of the River Wear, tumbles through woodland – creating a haven for wildlife.
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Just beside the Bollihope Burn, you can go alongside this disused limestone quarry. It is often partially flooded with water, adding to the beauty of this picturesque place.
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Kirkcarrion is a copse of pine trees planted on a walled hill above Middleton in Teesdale. The trees were planted in Victorian times on a Bronze Age burial mound. The trail is just off the Pennine Journey trail but worth the detour.
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A conspicuous sight up high on Pikeston Fell, the Elephant Trees are a beloved landmark in this part of the Durham Dales. This clutch of trees is so-called because it was said to resemble an elephant. However, gusty conditions have since brought a few of the trees down, altering the elephant's appearance.
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Monks Moor is a broad hill above Teeside in the North Pennines AONB. It reaches 1,854 feet (565 m) above sea level and its summit is crowned by a trig point. The hill is characterised by remnants from the mining industry, rocky outcrops and is clad in heather, a delightful sight in autumn.
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Among the highly-rated natural monuments, you can explore the Bollihope Limestone Quarry, known for its picturesque, partially flooded landscape. Another beloved landmark is The Elephant Trees, a unique viewpoint on Pikeston Fell. For a blend of history and nature, consider the Kirkcarrion Bronze Age Burial Mound.
Yes, several natural monuments are suitable for families and dogs. The Bollihope Limestone Quarry, The Elephant Trees, Kirkcarrion Bronze Age Burial Mound, and Five Pikes Summit Trig Point are all noted as family-friendly and dog-friendly, offering enjoyable outings for everyone.
The natural monuments around Woodland offer diverse features. You'll find unique geological formations like the partially flooded Bollihope Limestone Quarry, and expansive moorland views from summits such as Monks Moor Summit Trig Point and Five Pikes Summit Trig Point. The region also features significant wetlands and riparian areas, particularly at the Woodland Regional Park Preserve and Cache Creek Nature Preserve, which are crucial for local ecosystems.
Yes, the area combines natural beauty with historical significance. A notable example is the Kirkcarrion Bronze Age Burial Mound, where a copse of pine trees was planted in Victorian times on an ancient burial site. Additionally, Monks Moor Summit Trig Point features remnants from the mining industry, adding a historical layer to the natural landscape.
Near the natural monuments, you can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. For hiking, explore routes like the 'Three Becks Walk loop in Hamsterley Forest' or trails leading to 'Blackling Hole Waterfalls'. Cyclists can find numerous options, including road cycling routes such as 'View of Eggleston Abbey – Staindrop loop' or mountain biking trails like 'The Best of Hamsterley Forest loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the hiking, road cycling, and MTB guides for Woodland.
The Woodland Regional Park Preserve, while not listed as a highlight in this guide, is a significant natural area in Woodland that features a half-mile ADA accessible nature trail, making it suitable for a wider range of visitors. This preserve focuses on enhancing wetlands and wildlife habitats.
While specific seasonal tips for all monuments aren't provided, the Monks Moor Summit Trig Point is particularly delightful in autumn when its heather-clad hills are in full bloom. Generally, spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for exploring the outdoor sites. For birdwatching and nature photography, the Cache Creek Nature Preserve is excellent during winter and spring.
The Woodland Regional Park Preserve is designed to improve habitat for various wildlife, including birds like the Swainson's hawk and tricolored blackbird, with over 114 bird species reported. The Cache Creek Nature Preserve is also an excellent location for birdwatching and offers ample opportunities for nature photography, particularly during the winter and spring, thanks to its diverse habitats including wetlands and riparian forests.
Yes, both the Woodland Regional Park Preserve and the Cache Creek Nature Preserve offer educational focuses. The Woodland Regional Park Preserve has plans for a Center for Nature, Science, and Culture, providing formal and informal education programs. The Cache Creek Conservancy, which manages the Cache Creek Nature Preserve, is dedicated to restoration and preservation, offering educational programs about the Cache Creek watershed.
Beyond the specific monuments, the Woodland area is characterized by diverse natural landscapes. The Cache Creek Nature Preserve boasts a rich variety of ecosystems, including wetlands, oak savanna, grasslands, and riparian forest. The Woodland Regional Park Preserve also features significant wetlands and riparian areas, providing crucial habitats and unique natural settings.
Absolutely. The area is known for its viewpoints and summits. The Elephant Trees is a beloved landmark offering views from Pikeston Fell. Both Monks Moor Summit Trig Point and Five Pikes Summit Trig Point provide great views of the surrounding moorland and are excellent spots for panoramic vistas.


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