The Peak District is one of the UK’s most spectacular outdoor destinations, a patchwork of rolling hills, rugged moorlands, and peaceful valleys that’s perfect for adventurous dogs and their owners. Blessed with a number of stunning god friendly walks and hikes, whether you’re after a gentle riverside stroll or a day-long mountain adventure, there’s something here for every ability (and every breed).
Below you’ll find our pick of the best dog friendly hikes in the Peak District, from classic routes to a few lesser-known gems.
1. Mam Tor and the Great Ridge
Distance: 3 miles (loop)
Start point: Mam Nick car park, Castleton
Difficulty: Moderate
Mam Tor — the famous “Shivering Mountain” — is a must for any hiker. The short climb rewards you with sweeping views across the Hope Valley and Edale. The trail is mostly stone-paved, making it easy on the paws, though be mindful of strong winds on the ridge.
Dog-friendly tip: Keep your dog on a lead when crossing the ridge as there are steep drops on either side, and livestock often graze nearby.
The National Trust’s page on Mam Tor includes details on parking and accessibility, as well as a route map.
2. Padley Gorge
Distance: 2 miles (loop)
Start point: Longshaw Estate car park (National Trust)
Difficulty: Easy
Padley Gorge is a magical woodland walk, filled with moss-covered rocks, babbling streams, and plenty of places for your dog to paddle. It’s shaded and cool even on warm days, making it ideal for summer hikes.
Dog-friendly tip: The gorge can be slippery after rain, so good boots (and a towel for your dog) are a must.
The National Trust’s page on Padley Gorge includes details on parking and accessibility, as well as a route map.
3. Stanage Edge
Distance: 4 miles (out and back)
Start point: Hook’s Car car park near Hathersage
Difficulty: Moderate
Stanage Edge is one of the Peak’s most iconic viewpoints. The trail follows a gentle ascent to the gritstone escarpment, where climbers, photographers, and hikers all come for the panoramic views.
Dog-friendly tip: There’s little shade or water here, so bring extra for your pup — especially on sunny days.
4. Dovedale and Thorpe Cloud
Distance: 5 miles (loop)
Start point: Dovedale car park, near Thorpe
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
This is one of the most popular dog walks in the Peak District — and for good reason. The iconic stepping stones over the River Dove, limestone cliffs, and open meadows make it a perfect half-day outing.
Dog-friendly tip: Expect crowds in summer. Visit early or mid-week for a quieter experience, and watch your dog around the river crossings.
5. Monsal Trail
Distance: 8.5 miles (linear, but you can do shorter sections)
Start point: Bakewell or Millers Dale
Difficulty: Easy
Built along a disused railway line, the Monsal Trail is a flat, traffic-free path that’s ideal for dogs of all ages. You’ll pass through lit tunnels, across impressive viaducts, and alongside rivers and woodlands.
Dog-friendly tip: Bring a long-line lead — you can safely let your dog roam in many sections without worrying about livestock.
6. Curbar Edge and Froggatt Edge
Distance: 5 miles (loop)
Start point: Curbar Gap car park
Difficulty: Moderate
For a quieter alternative to Stanage Edge, this route combines Curbar and Froggatt Edges into a scenic loop overlooking the Derwent Valley. It’s a great mix of open moorland and woodland paths, with plenty of fresh air and space to roam.
Dog-friendly tip: There are several stiles along the route, so smaller dogs may need a lift over.
7. Tittesworth Reservoir Trail
Distance: 4.5 miles (loop)
Start point: Tittesworth Reservoir Visitor Centre
Difficulty: Easy
A relaxed lakeside trail with great views of The Roaches in the distance. There are clear paths, dog-friendly café stops, and water access points along the way.
Dog-friendly tip: Keep your dog out of the reservoir itself — dogs aren’t allowed to swim, but there are shallow inlets nearby for paddling.
8. The Roaches and Lud’s Church
Distance: 6.5 miles (loop)
Start point: Roaches Gate car park, near Upper Hulme
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
This route packs in two highlights: the dramatic gritstone cliffs of The Roaches and the mystical moss-covered chasm of Lud’s Church. It’s a true Peak District adventure — wild, scenic, and incredibly photogenic.
Dog-friendly tip: The climb is steep in parts and can be muddy after rain, so bring plenty of water and a towel for the journey home.
Map of Dog Friendly Walks and Hikes in the Peak District
Our map below shows the locations of each of these dog friendly hikes in the Peak District, browse the pins and click through to get directions.
A brilliant combo of gritstone ridge and atmospheric mossy chasm. Start on The Roaches, follow the edge past Doxey Pool, then dip into woodland for Lud’s Church before looping back. Best for energetic dogs with solid recall.
Highlights: Big ridge views, Doxey Pool, the Lud’s Church chasm.
Dog tips: Some steep drops on the edge; leads in livestock areas.
Distance (Miles): 6
Difficulty: Moderate
Off Lead Possibility: Some
Parking: Yes
A gentle waterside circuit with wide paths and constant views to The Roaches. Great for all abilities and perfect for dogs that enjoy easy miles and frequent paddle spots.
Highlights: Lakeside views, birdlife, visitor centre café and loos.
Dog tips: Popular at weekends; keep leads handy near busy sections.
Distance (Miles): 5
Difficulty: Easy
Off Lead Possibility: Some
Parking: Yes
A classic gritstone edge walk with huge views over the Derwent Valley. The path undulates along Curbar and Froggatt Edges on good tracks with plenty of open space for confident dogs.
Highlights: Long ridge views, easy nav, sunrise/sunset friendly.
Dog tips: Seasonal lead restrictions for ground-nesting birds on open moor.
Distance (Miles): 5.5
Difficulty: Moderate
Off Lead Possibility: Some
Parking: Yes
Following a disused railway line through tunnels and over viaducts, the Monsal Trail is one of the most accessible and dog-friendly routes in the Peaks. Flat, scenic, and great for all fitness levels.
Highlights: Viaduct views, tunnels, traffic-free paths.
Dog tips: Keep dogs close in the tunnels — they can echo loudly.
Distance (Miles): 8.5
Difficulty: Moderate
Off Lead Possibility: Lots
Parking: Yes
One of the most scenic and accessible walks in the Peak District, Dovedale’s famous stepping stones and the climb up Thorpe Cloud make it perfect for adventurous dogs. The riverside paths are easy underfoot, with plenty of paddling opportunities.
Highlights: Stepping stones, limestone gorge, gentle climbs.
Dog tips: Busy on weekends — early mornings are best for dogs off-lead.
Distance (Miles): 3.5
Difficulty: Moderate
Off Lead Possibility: Some
Parking: Yes
A long gritstone ridge above Hathersage, Stanage Edge offers one of the most dramatic dog walks in the Peak District. The route follows an open moorland path with incredible views and plenty of off-lead freedom.
Highlights: Vast ridge views, open access land, iconic rock formations.
Dog tips: Watch for ground-nesting birds in spring — leads required then.
Distance (Miles): 4
Difficulty: Moderate
Off Lead Possibility: Lots
Parking: Yes
A magical woodland trail following Burbage Brook, Padley Gorge is a favourite for dog owners. The shaded forest, mossy rocks, and running water make it especially good for dogs that enjoy paddling and exploring.
Highlights: Woodland setting, stream access, natural beauty.
Dog tips: Popular spot — visit early for quieter walks.
Distance (Miles): 2.5
Difficulty: Easy
Off Lead Possibility: Lots
Parking: Yes
Known as the “Shivering Mountain,” Mam Tor is one of the most popular walks in the Peak District, offering breathtaking views across the Hope Valley. The route follows a well-maintained stone path that climbs steadily to the summit — ideal for active dogs who enjoy open, breezy ridges and space to roam.
Highlights: Ridge walk views, dramatic scenery, easy access from Castleton.
Dog tips: Can get windy at the top — keep leads handy near steep drops.
Distance (Miles): 3
Difficulty: Moderate
Off Lead Possibility: Lots
Parking: Yes
Explore more dog friendly locations, including hikes, campsites and road trips on our Wildpack Map, our curated and ever growing map of locations to explore with your dog.
Trail Etiquette and Safety Tips
- Lead control: Always leash your dog near livestock and wildlife
- Gear up: Some of these trails can be demanding, make sure you have the correct hiking equipment for your dog
- Paw care: Rocky terrain can be tough on pads — check regularly for cuts.
- Hydration: Many trails lack water sources, so carry extra for your dog.
- Clean up: Pack out all waste — the Peak District National Park takes dog fouling seriously.
- Check weather: Conditions can change quickly, especially on high ground.
Please always consider the age, fitness and breed of your dog before embarking on a hiking trail and make sure it’s within both of your capacity to complete.
What’s Nearby?
If you are keen to explore beyond the Peak District, there are plenty of other dog friendly adventures close by:
- Dog Friendly Campsites in The Peak District – Find dog friendly stays to have a base to explore all the Peak District has to offer.
- Dog friendly walks in Derbyshire – Reservoir loops, woodland trails and quieter countryside walks that sit just beyond the busiest Peak District routes.
- Dog friendly walks in the Yorkshire Dales – Big limestone scenery, wide valleys and classic hill walks further north.
- Dog friendly walks in Staffordshire – From canal-side strolls to open moorland and woodland hikes on the edge of the Peaks.
- Dog friendly walks in Nottinghamshire – Flatter terrain, forests and country parks that work well for easier walks and recovery days.
Perfect if you are planning a longer trip or just want to keep discovering new ground with your dog.
Final Thoughts
Hiking in the Peak District with your dog is a brilliant way to enjoy the outdoors together. With its mix of open moors, shady gorges, and lakeside paths, every walk feels like an adventure. Whether you’re exploring the famous Mam Tor ridge or wandering the quieter corners around Padley Gorge, these trails promise unforgettable days out — and a very happy, tired pup by the end of it. Why not make the most of your time in the Peak District and explore our list of dog friendly campsites.
Ticked all of these off the list? You might enjoy our article on best hikes in the Lake District.