The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Benson
4.7
(1419)
8,460
hikers
20
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Benson, Oxfordshire, are primarily characterized by the flat, open landscapes of the Thames Valley. The region features gentle riverside paths, agricultural fields, and small villages, offering accessible walking experiences. The terrain is generally low-lying with minimal elevation changes, making it suitable for families and casual walkers.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Benson
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Shillingford Bridge – Dorchester Abbey loop from Benson, a 9.2 miles (14.8 km)…
Last updated: May 4, 2026
4.6
(5)
27
hikers
14.7km
03:45
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(5)
37
hikers
9.91km
02:42
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
70
hikers
6.14km
01:33
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
10.2km
02:34
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
11
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
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.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Nice single track in the woods, mind other riders , you are not alone
0
0
Not currently available to cross on foot due to repairs. Ferry boat might be available, number is sign posted en route
0
0
Grand single-track, it's actually achievable on a road or gravel bike if it's dry. And it's really beautiful
0
0
Beautiful Garden to the rear of the Abbey. Sit quietly and reflect by the cross.
0
0
Little Wittenham has a very pretty church. It is surprising to find that it is not terribly ancient, for it was almost entirely rebuilt in 1862. The original building was built for the monks of Abingdon Abbey who held a monastic grange next door. The 14th century tower is original, as is its 'Ace of Spades' window - a reminder that this playing card paid for its erection when it brought a huge win to a local merchant! This may be a variant on the old story which suggests that the last of the Dunch family at the manor gambled away his home to King James II. The Dunches once had a family chapel on the south side of the chancel. Their fine monuments are now squeezed into the space under the tower. The great treasure of the church is the large monument to Sir William Dunch (1612) and his wife, Mary, the aunt of Oliver Cromwell. The Tudor brasses surrounding it include the first William Dunch (1597). There is a good collection of earlier brasses in the chancel: Geoffrey Kidwelly (1483) has an altar-style monument. His wife (1472) is on the floor with other members of this Lancastrian family from Wales who entered into the service of King Henry VI.
0
0
Day's Lock is a lock on the River Thames near Dorchester-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, England on the Dorchester side of the river. The pound lock was built in 1789 by the Thames Navigation Commissioner. The lock is across the river from the small village of Little Wittenham and is overlooked from the south by the hills of Wittenham Clumps, with a particularly good view from Round Hill. The weir runs straight across the river from the other side of the lock island. Day's Lock is the main gauging station for the measurement of the water flow in the River Thames.
0
0
Neighbouring Wharf Road has a slipway, boathouse and 12 listed buildings (at Grade II),
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in the Benson area?
The Benson area offers a variety of family-friendly hiking options. Our guide features 20 curated routes, with 6 specifically categorized as easy, making them ideal for families with children or those seeking a relaxed outing.
What makes Benson a great destination for family hikes?
Benson provides a unique blend of desert beauty, serene plains, and majestic mountain views, offering diverse ecosystems for families to explore. Many trails are well-maintained and offer opportunities to see unique flora, fauna, and geological features, all set against Arizona's stunning 'Sky Island' landscapes.
Are there easy trails suitable for young children or beginners?
Absolutely! For an easy and enjoyable family walk, consider the Shillingford Bridge – Shillingford Wharf loop from Benson, which is just over 7 km long with minimal elevation gain. Another great option is the Benson Lock – Wallingford Bridge loop from Benson, a shorter 4.9 km route perfect for little legs.
Can we find circular routes for family hikes in Benson?
Yes, many of the family-friendly trails in Benson are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Shillingford Bridge – Dorchester Abbey loop from Benson offers a moderate circular experience, while the Shillingford Bridge – Shillingford Bridge loop from Benson is another popular circular option.
What kind of wildlife can we expect to see on family hikes in Benson?
The region is rich in biodiversity, especially within the San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area. Families can enjoy birdwatching, as it's a critical habitat for over 350 species of birds. You might also spot various desert animals and unique plant life along the trails.
Are there any interesting historical sites or attractions along the trails?
Yes, the area around Benson is dotted with historical points of interest. You can explore sites like Wallingford Bridge, or discover the rich history at Wallingford Castle Meadows. These attractions provide a fascinating glimpse into the region's past.
Where can we find unique natural features like rock formations?
For stunning natural features, the Texas Canyon Nature Preserve, located near Benson, is renowned for its unique rock formations, spires, and seasonal ponds. While not directly on our listed routes, it's a fantastic nearby spot for families to explore and witness geological wonders.
Is there parking available at the trailheads for family hikes?
Most popular trailheads in the Benson area, especially those within state parks like Kartchner Caverns, offer designated parking facilities. For specific routes, it's always advisable to check the route details on komoot for parking information at the starting point.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Benson?
The cooler months, from late fall through spring (October to April), are generally the most pleasant for family hiking in Benson. Temperatures are milder, making for more comfortable outdoor exploration. Summer can be very hot, so early morning hikes are recommended if visiting during that season.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family trails in Benson?
The komoot community highly rates the trails around Benson, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Hikers frequently praise the diverse landscapes, from riparian corridors to desert and mountain views, and the well-maintained paths that make them accessible for families. The opportunity for wildlife spotting is also a common highlight.
Are there any trails that offer views of the Whetstone Mountains?
Many trails in the Benson area provide excellent views of the majestic Whetstone Mountains, which form a prominent backdrop to the region. Kartchner Caverns State Park, nestled in the foothills of these mountains, offers several above-ground trails, such as the Foothills Loop Trail, that provide scenic vistas of the range.
Most popular routes around Benson
Most popular attractions around Benson
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
