The best hikes from bus stations around Burrator Reservoir

There are over 40 hiking routes accessible from bus stations around Burrator Reservoir, catering to various skill levels. You'll find 13 easy routes, 26 moderate routes, and 4 more challenging options.

Hikes from bus stations around Burrator Reservoir offer a diverse range of landscapes. You can expect tranquil reservoir views, rugged Dartmoor tors like Sheeps Tor and Sharpitor, expansive moorland, and dense woodlands. The area is rich in natural beauty, including the Burrator Arboretum and Nature Reserve.

Yes, many of the bus-accessible routes around Burrator Reservoir are suitable for families. The popular Burrator Reservoir loop, for instance, is an easy 3.7-mile (5.9 km) trail with continuous scenic views, perfect for a family outing. Look for routes marked as 'easy' in the guide for more family-friendly options.

Burrator Reservoir is a very dog-friendly area, and most hiking trails are suitable for dogs. However, please be mindful of livestock on the open moorland and keep dogs on a lead where necessary, especially during lambing season. Always ensure your dog is under control and clean up after them.

Yes, many of the routes are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same bus stop. For example, the Hiking loop from Yelverton is a moderate 7.6 km circular route. Another option is the River Plym – Dewerstone Rock Viewpoint loop from River Meavy, which offers a moderate 10.4 km circular experience.

The area is rich in both natural and historical attractions. You can discover the impressive Victorian-era Burrator Dam, explore the Burrator Arboretum and Nature Reserve, or find a picturesque waterfall on Sheepstor Brook. Some trails also lead past historical elements like abandoned farm ruins, evidence of tin working, and prehistoric settlements. The Sheepstor Dam – Burrator Reservoir and Dam loop from Yelverton is a great option to see the dam and reservoir.

Burrator Reservoir offers beautiful hiking opportunities year-round. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers like bluebells, while autumn showcases stunning foliage. Summer is ideal for longer hikes, and even winter offers crisp, scenic walks, though some paths might be muddy. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Yes, for those seeking a greater challenge, there are longer and more difficult routes. The Abbey Bridge and Weir – Gem Bridge loop from Yelverton is a difficult 20.8 km hike with significant elevation gain. These routes often traverse rugged tors and offer expansive views of Dartmoor.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1300 ratings. Reviewers often praise the continuous scenic views, the variety of landscapes from tranquil waters to rugged moorland, and the accessibility of trails directly from public transport stops.

Yes, some trails incorporate sections of the historic Princetown Railway. For example, the RAF Harrowbeer Airfield – Gem Bridge loop from Yelverton, a moderate 9 km route, allows you to explore parts of the old railway infrastructure and the former airfield.