The best walks and hikes around Hackforth

Yes, many trails in the Hackforth area are great for walking with dogs. The region's open countryside and riverside paths offer plenty of space. However, you'll likely cross fields with livestock, so it's essential to keep your dog on a lead in these areas. Always follow local signage regarding dogs.

Absolutely. The area is well-suited for families, with many gentle and relatively flat trails. For a shorter, accessible outing, consider the Bedale loop from Bedale. It's an easy walk that's just under 6 km, making it a manageable adventure for all ages.

Yes, circular routes are very common around Hackforth, allowing you to start and end in the same place without retracing your steps. Many trails are designed as loops, such as the moderate Bedale – Crakehall Village Green loop from Little Crakehall, which takes you through the local countryside.

The trails around Hackforth cater to a range of abilities, but the majority are easy to moderate. Out of more than 45 routes in the area, most are classified as easy strolls or moderately challenging hikes. There are very few technically difficult or strenuous mountain climbs, as the landscape is primarily gentle, rolling countryside.

Many walks connect local villages like Bedale, Crakehall, and Hackforth, which have traditional pubs perfect for a mid-hike break or a post-walk meal. Planning a route that passes through one of these villages is the best way to incorporate a pub stop into your day.

The area is well-regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of over 4 stars. Hikers often praise the peaceful rural atmosphere, the well-maintained footpaths through open farmland, and the scenic walks along the River Swale.

While the immediate area is best known for short and medium-length circular walks, its proximity to the Yorkshire Dales National Park means it can be a starting point for longer excursions. You can connect local footpaths to create more extensive day hikes or link up with regional long-distance paths for a bigger challenge.

The landscape is classic North Yorkshire countryside. Expect to see gentle rolling hills, open farmland with traditional stone walls, and tranquil paths alongside the River Swale. For more expansive forested scenery, the nearby Howardian Hills National Landscape offers a heavily wooded, rolling landscape to explore.

Parking is generally available in the towns and larger villages like Bedale and Catterick, which serve as popular start points for many trails. Some routes may begin near smaller villages with limited on-street parking, so it's always a good idea to arrive early and park considerately.

The immediate Hackforth area is more characterized by its gentle rivers, like the Swale, rather than dramatic waterfalls. While Hackfall Wood, a bit further afield, is known for its man-made water features, most local trails focus on riverside and countryside scenery.

The larger market town of Bedale is the main hub for public transport in the area, with bus services connecting it to surrounding towns. Starting your hike from Bedale is often the most convenient option if you are relying on public transport.