The best walks and hikes around Rawdon
4.5
(1831)
18,203
hikers
872
hikes
Hiking around Rawdon features a landscape characterized by rolling terrain, waterways, and rural paths. The area includes canal paths, river routes, and bridleways, offering varied walking experiences. These trails often traverse open countryside and connect to nearby villages. The topography provides options for both gentle strolls and more extended walks with moderate elevation changes.
Best hiking trails around Rawdon
- The most popular hiking route is The Rodley Barge loop from Apperley Bridge, a 5.4 miles (8.6 km) trail that takes 2 hours 13 minutes to complete, following a scenic canal path.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Forest View – Forest View loop from Apperley Bridge, a moderate 9.3 miles (14.9 km) path. This route offers views of the local countryside and takes approximately 3 hours 57 minutes.
- Local hikers also love the Carr Beck – Shell Lane Bridleway loop from Rawdon, a 5.7 miles (9.1 km) trail leading through rural landscapes, often completed in about 2 hours 35 minutes.
- Hiking around Rawdon is defined by canal paths, river routes, and bridleways, offering a network of trails suitable for various abilities. The network includes options for both easy and moderate walks.
- The routes in Rawdon are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1400 reviews. More than 16000 hikers have used komoot to explore Rawdon's varied terrain.
Last updated: November 8, 2026
4.9
(22)
140
hikers
8.63km
02:13
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
4.7
(7)
146
hikers
8.28km
02:07
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
4.2
(17)
90
hikers
14.5km
03:48
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
4.3
(4)
48
hikers
8.51km
02:12
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
4.9
(8)
27
hikers
9.19km
02:35
180m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Tips from the Community
Start at Calverley Bridge, follow the broad, paved canal towpath west towards Apperley Bridge, and return the same way.
0
0
The Leeds and Liverpool Canal towpath is the longest continuous waterside path in Northern England.
0
0
The stretch of the River Aire between Bradford and Leeds acts as a vital green and industrial corridor, carving its way through the historic Aire Valley. While the river technically bypasses Bradford's city centre meeting the Bradford Beck at Shipley it flows directly through the northern edge of the Bradford district before cutting through West Leeds and into the heart of Leeds city centre.
0
0
Leeds - Shipley section is top tier, wide, well maintained. And the scenery is uniquely english.
0
0
This is a super fun and scenic section of gravel that runs alongside the Leeds and Liverpool Canal between Shipley and Leeds.
1
0
Apperley bridge is a pretty village with plenty of old, listed buildings and pubs to visit.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of hiking trails can I expect in Rawdon?
Rawdon offers a diverse landscape for hiking, characterized by vibrant forests, numerous lakes, and the Ouareau River. You'll find trails with varied topography, from gentle paths along waterways to more challenging routes through steep hills and rocky terrain. The region is known for its extensive networks like those in Parc régional de la Forêt Ouareau and La Tournée des Cantons de Rawdon.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families in Rawdon?
Yes, Rawdon has many options for easy walks. Parc des Chutes Dorwin offers 3 km of ecological trails that are generally accessible and provide spectacular views of Dorwin Falls. Parc des Cascades also provides tranquil settings for walking with numerous waterfalls and picnic facilities, ideal for a relaxed outing.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Rawdon?
Yes, many areas in Rawdon are dog-friendly. For example, Parc des Chutes Dorwin explicitly allows dogs on leash, making it a great option for hiking with your canine companion.
Are there any trails with waterfalls in Rawdon?
Absolutely! Rawdon is famous for its waterfalls. You can experience the impressive 18.3-meter (60-foot) Dorwin Falls at Parc des Chutes Dorwin. Additionally, Parc des Cascades, located upstream from Lake Pontbriand on the Ouareau River, features numerous waterfalls and cascades.
What are some notable natural attractions or landmarks to see while hiking in Rawdon?
Beyond the stunning waterfalls, Rawdon's natural attractions include the scenic Ouareau River, which winds through the region, and several beautiful lakes like Lake Pontbriand and Rawdon Lake. The vast Parc régional de la Forêt Ouareau offers wild lakes and century-old forests, providing a deep immersion in nature.
Are there any long-distance hiking options or multi-day trails in Rawdon?
For longer adventures, Parc régional de la Forêt Ouareau boasts an extensive 120 km network of multi-functional trails. This park offers rustic camping and refuges, allowing for extended stays and deeper exploration of the wilderness.
What is the best season for hiking in Rawdon?
Rawdon is a year-round destination for outdoor activities. While summer and fall offer lush greenery and vibrant autumn colors, Parc des Chutes Dorwin is open year-round, making it accessible even in winter for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. The diverse trail networks cater to different seasons.
Are there circular hiking routes available in Rawdon?
Many of Rawdon's trail systems, such as those within Parc des Chutes Dorwin and La Tournée des Cantons de Rawdon, are designed to offer various loop options, allowing hikers to start and end at the same point and enjoy diverse scenery without retracing steps.
What kind of facilities are available at the hiking parks in Rawdon?
Parks like Parc des Chutes Dorwin and Parc des Cascades offer amenities such as picnic areas. Parc des Chutes Dorwin also features multiple observation belvederes for enjoying the views. For longer stays, Parc régional de la Forêt Ouareau provides rustic camping and refuges.
How many hiking trails are there in Rawdon?
There are over 850 hiking routes available in the Rawdon area, catering to various difficulty levels. Approximately 466 are considered easy, 358 moderate, and 29 difficult, ensuring options for every hiker.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Rawdon?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1400 reviews. Hikers often praise the scenic beauty, the variety of trails, and the peaceful natural environment, especially the impressive waterfalls and lush forests.
Are there any trails that offer viewpoints in Rawdon?
Yes, Parc des Chutes Dorwin features multiple observation belvederes that provide spectacular views of Dorwin Falls and the surrounding lush forest. The varied topography of the region, especially in areas like Parc régional de la Forêt Ouareau, also offers numerous scenic overlooks.
Most popular attractions around Rawdon
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
