Highlight • Udsigtspunkt
The Elephant Trees
Vandring
4.7
(35)
Løb
5.0
(1)
Perched conspicuously on Pikeston Fell at an elevation of 380 meters, The Elephant Trees are a distinctive and beloved landmark within the scenic Durham Dales in North East England. This unique clump of trees, situated above Weardale between the villages of Frosterley and Wolsingham, earned its name from its historical resemblance to an elephant. While storms have altered its appearance over time, it remains a notable feature in the landscape, inviting visitors to discover its charm.
What draws hikers and…
Dette Highlight ligger i et beskyttet område
Tjek lokale regler for:
North Pennines National Landscape
Tips
31. august 2021
Vandring
19. maj 2024
Vandring
Kender du stedet? Log ind for at tilføje et tip til andre eventyrere!
Ruter i nærheden
Bedste ruter nær The Elephant Trees
4,8
(29)
85
Vandrere
Embark on the Five Pikes and the Elephant Trees loop, a moderate hike spanning 9.2 miles (14.8 km) with an elevation gain of 975 feet (297 metres), typically completed in…
4,7
(11)
53
Vandrere
15,6km
04:17
260m
260m
Middel vandretur. Kræver god kondition. Let tilgængelige stier. Egnet for alle niveauer.
4,8
(12)
53
Vandrere
16,0km
04:25
270m
270m
Middel vandretur. Kræver god kondition. Let tilgængelige stier. Egnet for alle niveauer.
Detaljer
Oplysninger
Højdemeter 380 m
Vejr
Drevet af Foreca
onsdag 16. september
14°C
9°C
73 %
Flere vejrtips
Maks. vindhastighed: 26,0 km/h
Mest besøgt i
januar
februar
marts
april
maj
juni
juli
august
september
oktober
november
december
Ofte stillede spørgsmål
Is this Elephant Trees location the same as the one in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, USA?
No, the Elephant Trees described here are a distinctive clump of trees on Pikeston Fell in the Durham Dales, North East England. The Elephant Trees in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, USA, refer to a unique desert plant species (*Bursera microphylla*) native to the southwestern United States and Mexico.
What is the typical hiking difficulty to reach The Elephant Trees on Pikeston Fell?
The hike to The Elephant Trees is generally considered intermediate. While not overly long, the trails on Pikeston Fell can be uneven, exposed, and potentially muddy, especially after rain. Hikers should be prepared for some uphill sections to reach the viewpoint at 380 meters elevation.
Are The Elephant Trees and the surrounding trails dog-friendly?
Yes, the area around The Elephant Trees is generally dog-friendly. Many trails in the Durham Dales welcome dogs, but it's always advisable to keep them on a lead, especially when passing through farmland or near livestock, and to follow the Countryside Code.
Are there any family-friendly options for visiting The Elephant Trees?
Absolutely. While the main hike is intermediate, there are often various routes available in the surrounding Weardale area, some of which are suitable for families. The unique story of the trees and the challenge of spotting the 'elephant' can be an engaging activity for children. Always choose a route appropriate for your family's fitness level.
Where can I park when visiting The Elephant Trees, and are permits required?
Parking is typically available in or near the villages of Wolsingham and Frosterley, which serve as common starting points for hikes to The Elephant Trees. Specific parking options may vary, so checking local signage is recommended. Generally, no special permits are required for parking in designated public areas, but standard parking fees may apply in some car parks.
How can I reach The Elephant Trees using public transport?
Public transport options to the Durham Dales are available, primarily via bus services connecting to villages like Wolsingham and Frosterley. From these villages, you would then begin your hike to The Elephant Trees. It's advisable to check local bus schedules in advance, especially for weekend services, as they can be less frequent.
What gear should I bring for a hike to The Elephant Trees?
Given the fell environment, sturdy, waterproof footwear is highly recommended, as trails can be uneven and muddy. Layers of clothing are also wise, as the exposed location means weather can change quickly. Consider bringing a waterproof jacket, water, snacks, and a map or navigation device.
Are there any amenities like coffee shops or restrooms near The Elephant Trees?
The Elephant Trees themselves are a natural landmark on Pikeston Fell, so there are no direct amenities at the site. However, the nearby villages of Wolsingham and Frosterley offer various amenities, including pubs, cafes, and shops, where you can find refreshments and restrooms before or after your hike.
What is the best time of year to visit The Elephant Trees for optimal conditions?
While the trees are a year-round attraction, visiting during clearer weather, typically from late spring through early autumn, offers the most comfortable hiking conditions and better visibility of the surrounding Durham Dales landscape. Winter hikes are possible but require extra preparation for colder temperatures, potential ice, and shorter daylight hours.
Can I find circular walks that include The Elephant Trees?
Yes, there are several circular walking routes in the Durham Dales that incorporate The Elephant Trees as a key point of interest. These routes often start and end in nearby villages like Wolsingham or Frosterley, allowing hikers to experience the landmark as part of a longer, scenic loop through Weardale. You can explore various trail options to find one that suits your preferred distance and difficulty.
What makes The Elephant Trees unique compared to other local landmarks?
The Elephant Trees stand out due to their distinctive appearance and the local lore surrounding their name, which stems from their historical resemblance to an elephant. While storms have altered their shape, they remain a beloved and conspicuous landmark on Pikeston Fell, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and local storytelling that sets them apart from other viewpoints in the Durham Dales.