The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Hackness

There are over 10 family-friendly hiking routes around Hackness, ranging from easy strolls to moderately challenging paths. All are designed to be enjoyable for families with children, offering manageable distances and gentle terrain.

Hackness offers a diverse landscape with deep valleys, extensive deciduous woodlands, and riverside paths along the River Derwent. You'll find undulating paths through forests and fields, with some routes featuring the prominent Corallian Escarpment, providing varied and engaging terrain for families.

Yes, there are several easy circular walks. For a pleasant option, consider the Thirlsey loop from Hackness, which is just under 7 km and offers beautiful woodland scenery. Another great choice is the Hiking loop from Broxa, which is around 5.5 km and features gentle elevation changes.

The Hackness area is rich in natural beauty and historical interest. You might encounter deep wooded valleys, serene riverside paths, and geological formations from its glacial past. Nearby attractions include the stunning Hayburn Wyke Waterfall and Beach, a secluded cove with waterfalls, and the historic Peak Alum Works ruins, offering a glimpse into the region's industrial heritage.

The komoot community highly rates the trails around Hackness, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Hikers often praise the quiet woodlands, well-maintained paths, and the overall peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for family outings.

Yes, some routes offer lovely viewpoints. The Highwood Brow Viewpoint loop from Hackness is a moderate trail that specifically features a viewpoint, providing panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside. The View from Reasty Hill Top – Lowdales Ford and Footbridge loop also offers scenic outlooks.

Hackness is generally very dog-friendly, with many trails passing through woodlands and open fields where dogs can enjoy the outdoors. Always keep dogs under control, especially near livestock, and check local signage for any specific restrictions within the North York Moors National Park.

Hackness is beautiful year-round. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers and fresh greenery, while autumn transforms the deciduous woodlands into a spectacular display of colors. Summer offers pleasant temperatures for longer days out, and even winter can be magical with crisp air and serene landscapes, though some paths might be muddy.

While Hackness itself is a small village, there are local pubs and cafes in the surrounding area that cater to hikers. Many routes are within a short drive of establishments where you can enjoy refreshments after your walk. It's always a good idea to check opening times in advance.

Given the varied terrain and potential for changing weather in the North York Moors, it's best to dress in layers. Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes or boots are recommended, especially for woodland and riverside paths which can be uneven or muddy. Waterproof outer layers are also advisable, particularly outside of summer.

While many family-friendly routes pass through sections of woodland, the Hackness area is surrounded by larger forests like Wykeham Forest, Broxa Forest, and Harwood Dale Forest. The Hiking loop from Broxa offers a taste of these extensive wooded areas, providing a peaceful forest experience.