The best walks and hikes around Bovey Tracey

There are over 80 hiking trails around Bovey Tracey, offering a wide range of options from easy strolls to more challenging moorland ascents. The komoot community has rated these routes highly, with an average score of 4.5 stars.

Yes, Bovey Tracey offers many easy trails. For a relaxed experience, consider the Tottiford Reservoir – Kennick Reservoir loop from Trenchford Reservoir, which is mostly flat and takes you through pleasant reservoir landscapes. The Parke Estate also provides well-marked, gentle paths suitable for families.

Hikes around Bovey Tracey vary significantly. You can find shorter routes like the Haytor Quarry & Rocks loop, which is about 4 miles (6.5 km) and takes under 2 hours. Longer, more moderate options, such as the Hisley Bridge – Hunter's Tor loop, can extend to over 8 miles (13 km) and take several hours.

Yes, many routes in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. The Hisley Bridge – Old Clam Bridge loop from Bovey Tracey is a great example, offering a pleasant walk through woodlands and along the river.

The region is rich in natural beauty. You can explore iconic granite tors like Haytor Rocks and Hound Tor, offering panoramic views. The Bovey Valley features ancient woodlands and the meandering River Bovey. You might also encounter historic sites like Hisley Bridge or the tranquil Haytor Quarry Pond with Water Lilies.

While the River Bovey offers tranquil riverside walks, for dramatic waterfalls, you might consider visiting nearby attractions like Becky Falls Ancient Woodland Park or Canonteign Falls, which are known for their impressive cascades and woodland trails.

Many trails in Dartmoor National Park and the surrounding Bovey Tracey area are dog-friendly. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock or during ground-nesting bird seasons. Specific routes like the Wray Valley Trail or those within the Parke Estate are generally welcoming to dogs.

Spring and autumn are often considered the best seasons for hiking around Bovey Tracey. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers and milder temperatures, while autumn offers stunning foliage. Summer is also popular, but the moorland can be exposed, so prepare for sun. Winter hikes are possible but require appropriate gear for potentially wet and cold conditions.

To find quieter routes, consider exploring some of the less-trafficked paths within the East Dartmoor National Nature Reserve, such as those in Hisley Wood. Early mornings or weekdays can also offer a more peaceful experience on popular trails.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 280 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from the dramatic granite tors of Dartmoor to the tranquil river valleys and ancient woodlands. The variety of trails suitable for all abilities is also frequently highlighted.

Bovey Tracey has local bus services that can connect you to nearby villages and some points on the edge of Dartmoor National Park, which may serve as starting points for certain trails. For specific routes, it's best to check local bus timetables for connections to trailheads.

Many popular trailheads, especially those leading to Dartmoor's tors or within estates like Parke, have dedicated parking areas, often paid. In Bovey Tracey itself, there are public car parks. For specific routes, it's recommended to check the route details for parking information.