Blackstone Edge & Dog Hill loop from Blackstone Reservoir

Parking for this loop trail is available off the A58 road, conveniently located near the Blackstone Edge Reservoir, which serves as the starting point.

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly. However, as it crosses open moorland and areas with wildlife, it's recommended to keep dogs on a leash, particularly during nesting seasons or when livestock may be present.

Spring and summer are generally the best times to hike this route. During these seasons, the moorlands are vibrant with blooming heather and wildflowers, and the weather is typically more favorable for outdoor activities.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to hike the Blackstone Edge & Dog Hill loop from Blackstone Reservoir.

The trail features varied terrain, including moorlands, grasslands, and some sections of woodland. Paths are primarily dirt and gravel tracks, though some parts involve rougher tracks and faint paths across open moorland. Sure-footedness is recommended due to potentially uneven surfaces.

Along the route, you'll encounter several points of interest. These include the historic Aiggin Stone Medieval Guide Stone, the Blackstone Edge trig point and Robin Hood's Bed, and the Dog Hill Trig Point, all offering expansive views. You might also spot a serene reservoir, fields of cotton grass in late spring, and diverse wildlife.

Yes, sections of this loop incorporate parts of famous long-distance footpaths. You'll find it intersects with the Pennine Way (Standedge to Warland Reservoir), the GM Ringway Stage 10, and the Rochdale Way.

Rated as moderate, this loop is generally manageable for most hikers with a reasonable fitness level. While some variations can be longer, this specific route is around 13 km with moderate elevation, making it accessible for those new to hiking but comfortable with a few hours on varied terrain.

Absolutely. Both Dog Hill and Blackstone Edge offer fantastic panoramic views. From Blackstone Edge, you can see Manchester's skyscrapers to the west and West Yorkshire, including Huddersfield, to the east. Dog Hill also provides extensive vistas across the surrounding moorlands.

The trailhead near Blackstone Edge Reservoir is accessible by public transport. The nearest train station is Littleborough, from which you can plan onward travel to the starting point of the hike.

While the immediate trailhead is quite remote, there are options in nearby towns. Littleborough, accessible via public transport or a short drive, offers pubs and cafes where you can refuel after your walk.