The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Piethorne Reservoir

There are over 45 dog-friendly hiking trails around Piethorne Reservoir listed on komoot. These routes cater to various fitness levels, ensuring you and your dog can find a suitable adventure.

The terrain around Piethorne Reservoir is varied, featuring expansive open moorland, serene waterside paths, and gently rolling hills. You'll encounter a mix of well-maintained paths, some potentially muddy sections, and stone-step cascades linking the reservoirs. Sturdy footwear is recommended for both you and your dog.

Yes, there are several easy dog-friendly options. For a more relaxed experience, consider routes like the The White House Inn – Blackstone Edge Reservoir loop from The White House, which is just over 6 km with minimal elevation gain. These trails are generally well-suited for a leisurely stroll with your canine companion.

The Piethorne Valley is known for its series of interconnected Victorian-era reservoirs, including Piethorne, Ogden, and Kitcliffe, often linked by striking stone-step cascades. You'll also enjoy panoramic views of the Pennine hills and expansive open moorland. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, especially birds like curlews and skylarks.

Many of the trails in the Piethorne Reservoir area are circular, offering varied scenery without retracing your steps. For example, the Pennine Way – Stone Bridge Over Stream loop from Ripponden Road provides a longer circular option through diverse landscapes.

Free parking is available at Ogden Reservoir, which serves as a convenient starting point for many walks in the Piethorne Valley. The area is also easily accessible from the M62 motorway.

The Piethorne Reservoir area offers enjoyable walks year-round. Spring and summer bring lush greenery and active wildlife, while autumn provides beautiful colours. Winter walks can be crisp and scenic, though paths may be muddier. Always check weather conditions before heading out, as moorland trails can be exposed.

While specific dog-friendly establishments are not detailed in the route information, the nearby villages and towns like Newhey and Milnrow often have pubs and cafes. It's always a good idea to check their dog policies in advance.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the tranquility of the reservoirs, and the variety of routes suitable for different abilities, making it a popular spot for dog walkers.

While direct public transport links to the immediate reservoir area might be limited, you can often find bus services to nearby towns like Milnrow or Newhey. From there, you might need to walk or take a short taxi ride to reach the trailheads. Always check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.

Yes, for those seeking a longer challenge, there are moderate routes such as the View of Hollingworth Lake – Warland Reservoir Tower loop from Littleborough, which covers over 13 km with significant elevation gain. These trails offer a more strenuous workout for you and your energetic dog.