The best running trails around Dunsfort

There are over 20 running routes around Dunsford listed on komoot, offering a variety of experiences for joggers. These routes explore the diverse landscapes of the region, from riverside paths to more challenging trails on the edge of Dartmoor National Park.

Jogging routes around Dunsford feature a mix of terrains. You'll find well-maintained footpaths along the River Teign, particularly within the Dunsford Nature Reserve, which are ideal for gentler runs. Other trails venture into Dunsford Woods with sessile oak and ash trees, and some routes on the edge of Dartmoor National Park offer more rugged moorland and river valley terrain with moderate elevation changes.

While most routes in the Dunsford area are rated as moderate, the riverside paths along the River Teign, especially within the Dunsford Nature Reserve, offer gentler gradients suitable for beginners or those seeking a more relaxed run. Approximately 500m of easy-access path is available in Dunsford Woods for a relaxed experience.

Yes, many of the running routes around Dunsford are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Castle Ward – Audley's Castle loop from Portloughan is a popular circular option, as is the Audley's Castle – Audleystown Wood loop from Castle Ward.

The Dunsford area is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You might run past the stunning displays of wild daffodils in spring within the Dunsford Nature Reserve. Geological features like Heltor Rock, Blackingstone Rock, and Mardon Down offer impressive views across Dartmoor. Further afield, you could incorporate a run towards Audley's Castle or even Castle Ward Tower, a notable historical site.

Many of the paths, particularly those along the River Teign in the Dunsford Nature Reserve, are suitable for families due to their relatively flat and well-maintained surfaces. However, some trails in Dunsford Woods can be steep and muddy, so it's advisable to check route details for difficulty before heading out with children.

Generally, dogs are welcome on many public footpaths and trails around Dunsford, including those in the Dunsford Nature Reserve and Dunsford Woods. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs under control, especially near livestock or in nature reserves where wildlife is present. Please check specific signage for any restrictions.

Spring is particularly beautiful for running in Dunsford, especially when the Dunsford Nature Reserve is famous for its stunning displays of wild daffodils. Autumn also offers impressive scenery around the local reservoirs (Tottiford, Trenchford, and Kennick) as the leaves change. Summer provides longer daylight hours, while winter runs can be invigorating, though some trails might be muddy.

While Dunsford is known for the River Teign flowing through it, offering scenic riverside runs, the region also features a cluster of reservoirs including Tottiford, Trenchford, and Kennick, which offer impressive scenery and circular routes. For a more dramatic water feature, Canonteign Falls, England's highest manmade waterfall, is located to the south and can be a destination for a longer run or a point of interest.

Parking is generally available at key access points for popular trails. For instance, areas near the Dunsford Nature Reserve and Steps Bridge often have parking facilities. If you're exploring routes around Castle Ward, there's a dedicated Castle Ward Shore Car Park. It's always advisable to check specific route details or local signage for the most convenient parking options.

The komoot community frequently praises the diverse natural beauty and varied terrain of the Dunsford area. Runners particularly enjoy the peaceful riverside paths along the River Teign, the scenic woodlands of Dunsford Woods, and the expansive views offered by trails on the edge of Dartmoor National Park. The opportunity to combine a run with exploring historical sites like Audley's Castle is also a highlight.

Beyond the well-trodden paths, exploring the extensive network of trails within Fingle Woods and the dramatic Teign Gorge, located west of Dunsford, can offer a more secluded and extensive running experience. These areas provide further opportunities for exploration away from the main village, with varied terrain and stunning natural beauty.