4.8
(903)
5,700
hikers
15
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Sticklepath offer access to the northern edge of Dartmoor National Park, characterized by open moorland, granite tors, and river valleys. The region features prominent hills like Cosdon Hill, providing expansive views, and picturesque areas such as Belstone Cleave with the meandering River Taw. A mix of woodland paths and historic landscapes creates varied hiking experiences suitable for families.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
4.8
(5)
49
hikers
6.97km
02:05
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
25
hikers
2.85km
00:47
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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13
hikers
7.06km
01:59
140m
140m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
10.9km
03:21
390m
390m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
4
hikers
11.0km
03:19
350m
350m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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From the northern edge of the National Park youโre treated to stunning views of the areaโs impressive peaks, with Oke Tor standing out as one of the highest and most notable.
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Sticklepath stores and cafe. You can sit outside with your bike and watch the world go by. Home made cakes were ridiculously cheap, too, and happy to top up water bottles ๐
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Great pub garden for a mid walk refresher. ๐ 10/10 chips.
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Could be boggy if opting to try cross the river, but there's a bridge to the left as an option
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There are 15 family-friendly hiking trails around Sticklepath, with 8 of them rated as easy, making them suitable for various ages and abilities. The komoot community has highly rated these routes, with an average score of 4.79 stars.
Yes, for a gentle stroll, consider the Tarka the Otter Bridge โ Finch Foundry loop. This easy route is just under 3 km and takes about 45 minutes, perfect for little legs. It offers a pleasant walk along the River Taw and passes by the historic Finch Foundry.
Sticklepath, situated on the edge of Dartmoor National Park, offers a diverse landscape. You'll encounter open moorland, granite tors, and picturesque river valleys. The River Taw flows through the area, providing lovely riverside paths. You might also spot notable tors like Yes Tor summit or High Willhays summit in the distance, offering impressive views.
Many of the family-friendly routes around Sticklepath are circular. For a moderate option that offers a good loop, try the The Tors Inn โ Tarka the Otter Bridge loop. It's about 7 km long and takes around 2 hours, providing a varied experience through the local landscape.
Sticklepath village itself offers parking options, often near the Finch Foundry or local amenities, which serve as convenient starting points for many trails. Always check local signage for specific parking regulations and fees.
Public transport access to Sticklepath is available, though services might be less frequent than in larger towns. Local bus services connect Sticklepath to nearby towns like Okehampton, from where you can access various trailheads directly within the village.
Absolutely! The historic Finch Foundry, a 19th-century water-powered forge, is a prominent landmark in Sticklepath and often features on local walks. You can also enjoy views of impressive tors like Hunterโs Tor and West Mill Tor, or even visit Kes Tor and Rock Basin further afield.
Spring and summer offer the most pleasant weather for family hikes, with warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours. Autumn brings beautiful colours to the woodlands. While winter hikes are possible, be prepared for colder, potentially wetter conditions, especially on the more exposed moorland sections.
Yes, for a hike that includes a potential stop, consider the Tarka the Otter Bridge โ The Tors' Pub Garden loop. This moderate 7 km route starts and ends near local establishments in Sticklepath, offering a convenient option for refreshments after your walk.
Many trails in and around Sticklepath are dog-friendly, especially those on public footpaths. However, as much of the area borders Dartmoor National Park, it's crucial to keep dogs on a lead, particularly near livestock or during ground-nesting bird seasons, to protect wildlife and farm animals.
Yes, many routes offer excellent viewpoints. For a hike with expansive vistas, the Cosdon Beacon โ The Tors' Pub Garden loop takes you towards Cosdon Hill, which provides splendid climbs and offers panoramic views of Dartmoor's north moor and beyond on a clear day.
While the immediate family-friendly trails from Sticklepath focus on the River Taw, the wider area of Dartmoor National Park offers access to beautiful water bodies. You can explore highlights like Meldon Quarry Lake or Meldon Reservoir, which are a short drive away and offer additional walking opportunities.
The family-friendly hikes around Sticklepath cater to a range of abilities. Out of 15 routes, 8 are rated as easy, 6 as moderate, and only 1 as difficult. This means there are plenty of options for families looking for gentle strolls or slightly more challenging adventures, ensuring there's something for everyone.


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