Dartmoor National Park is one of the most dramatic and rewarding landscapes in the UK to explore with a dog. Stretching across rolling moorland, granite tors, deep wooded valleys and ancient villages, it offers endless opportunities for adventure.
Whether you’re after a gentle riverside stroll or a windswept ridge walk, Dartmoor delivers a perfect mix of terrain for dogs who love to roam. Just remember that much of the park is open access land where livestock graze freely, so dogs must be kept on a short lead between 1 March and 31 July to protect nesting birds, and under close control at all other times.
Here are eight of the best dog friendly walks in Dartmoor, each offering something a little different.
1. Fingle Bridge to Castle Drogo (Teign Gorge)
Distance: 4 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Off-lead: Some opportunities away from livestock and nesting birds
Nearby: Castle Drogo, Fingle Bridge Inn, Teign Gorge
Following the River Teign through a steep wooded gorge, this circular route combines natural beauty with historic interest. Starting at Fingle Bridge, the path climbs gently through oak woodland to reach the striking Castle Drogo before looping back. Dogs will love paddling in the river shallows, and the forest shade makes it a great warm weather walk.
Best for: Scenic woodland and riverside walking with a post-hike pub stop.
2. Bellever Forest and Bellever Tor
Distance: 2.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Off-lead: Yes, with good recall away from grazing animals
Nearby: Postbridge, Dartmoor ponies, Bronze Age hut circles
This peaceful trail begins in the pine-scented paths of Bellever Forest before opening out onto the moorland leading up to Bellever Tor. The climb is short but rewarding, with panoramic views across Dartmoor. It’s a versatile route that can be extended into longer loops via Postbridge.
Best for: A shaded woodland walk that still offers sweeping views.
3. Haytor and Hound Tor Circular
Distance: 4.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Off-lead: Good opportunities in open moorland
Nearby: Haytor Visitor Centre, Hound Tor Medieval Village
This classic Dartmoor circuit links two of the park’s most famous tors. The route takes in wide moorland views, granite outcrops and fascinating ruins at Hound Tor’s deserted medieval village. It’s exposed in places, so check the weather before heading out.
Best for: Iconic Dartmoor scenery and adventurous dogs who enjoy open space.
4. Burrator Reservoir Circular
Distance: 4.3 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Off-lead: Some off-lead sections, though livestock are common nearby
Nearby: Sheepstor, Burrator Discovery Centre
One of Dartmoor’s most popular low-level walks, this route circles the tranquil Burrator Reservoir on well-maintained woodland paths. It’s perfect for a relaxed stroll with dogs that prefer gentler terrain. The mixture of water, forest and open sections keeps things interesting throughout.
Best for: Easy, scenic walking suitable for all abilities.
5. Wistman’s Wood and the West Dart River
Distance: 2.8 miles
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Off-lead: Limited; keep dogs close in sensitive woodland habitat
Nearby: Two Bridges, Crockern Tor
This short but magical walk explores one of Dartmoor’s most atmospheric spots. Looking like something straight from the mind of J.R.R Tolkien, Wistman’s Wood is a small ancient oak forest draped in moss and lichen, surrounded by boulders and twisted branches. It feels like stepping into a fairytale. Paths can be rocky and uneven, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
Best for: A unique, otherworldly experience with a touch of Dartmoor mystery.
6. Dogmarsh Bridge to Fingle Bridge (Teign Valley)
Distance: 3 to 4 miles
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Off-lead: Yes, with care near the river
Nearby: Chagford, Hunter’s Tor, Fingle Bridge Inn
A lovely riverside walk through the Teign Valley linking two scenic bridges. The trail meanders through shaded woodland alongside the river, with spots where dogs can cool off in the shallows. The Fingle Bridge Inn makes an ideal rest stop at the end.
Best for: A relaxing half-day adventure with water access for dogs.
7. Haytor Quarry and Tramway Trail
Distance: 1.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Off-lead: Generally safe if recall is reliable
Nearby: Haytor Visitor Centre, disused tramway, granite quarries
Short on time but still want a great Dartmoor walk? This short circular route explores the old granite tramway and quarry below Haytor Rocks. The trail is well-marked, with gentle gradients and plenty of interest along the way.
Best for: A quick, accessible walk with great views.
8. Great Staple Tor and White Tor Circuit
Distance: 6.4 miles
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Off-lead: Yes, where safe and away from livestock
Nearby: Merrivale, Pew Tor, prehistoric stone rows
A more demanding walk for those who want to experience Dartmoor’s wilder side. This circuit includes two striking tors and expansive views across the moor. It’s exposed and remote, so come prepared with good boots, layers and a map.
Best for: Fit dogs and owners looking for a longer, full-day adventure.
Map of Dog Friendly Walks and Hikes Across Dartmoor National Park
Our handy map below marks each of these dog friendly walks across the Dartmoor National Park. Peruse our map and get more info and directions to find your next adventure.
A more challenging moorland route taking in two dramatic tors and expansive views across western Dartmoor. Remote and wild.
Distance: 6.4 miles
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Off-lead possibility: Yes (with control)
Parking available? Yes
A short, accessible walk exploring the historic granite tramway and quarry below Haytor Rocks. Gentle gradients and wide paths.
Distance: 1.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Off-lead possibility: Yes (in safe areas)
Parking available? Yes
A riverside walk following the Teign Valley, linking two picturesque bridges under the canopy of Dartmoor’s oak woods.
Distance: 3–4 miles
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Off-lead possibility: Yes (with control)
Parking available? Limited
A short but enchanting walk through ancient oak woodland draped in moss and lichen. Atmospheric, quiet and rich in wildlife.
Distance: 2.8 miles
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Off-lead possibility: Limited
Parking available? Yes
A peaceful woodland and water’s-edge walk around Burrator Reservoir, ideal for a relaxed day out. Flat paths make it perfect for all fitness levels.
Distance: 4.3 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Off-lead possibility: Some
Parking available? Yes
A classic Dartmoor loop connecting Haytor Rocks and Hound Tor, with open moorland views and a stop at the medieval village ruins. A favourite for energetic dogs.
Distance: 4.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Off-lead possibility: Yes (in open areas)
Parking available? Yes
A tranquil walk starting in pine woodland before opening onto the moor, with panoramic views from Bellever Tor. A great mix of forest shade and open terrain.
Distance: 2.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Off-lead possibility: Yes (with recall)
Parking available? Yes
A scenic woodland and riverside trail through the Teign Gorge, linking Fingle Bridge with the striking Castle Drogo. Ideal for dogs who enjoy shaded walks and splashing in the river.
Distance: 4 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Off-lead possibility: Some
Parking available? Yes
Find even more adventures across the whole of the UK in our Wildpack Map, outlining our recommended dog friendly walks, hikes, campsites, road trips and much more.
Safety and Dog Walking Tips
- Keep dogs on a short fixed lead (max 2m) between 1 March and 31 July to protect ground-nesting birds.
- Ensure you’re carrying the essential hiking gear to keep you and your dog safe.
- Always leash near livestock and wildlife.
- Carry water and treats for your dog, as moorland walks offer little shade or fresh water.
- Check local weather and parking conditions before setting out.
- Take waste bags and dispose responsibly.
Final Thoughts
Dartmoor is one of the most rewarding places in the UK to explore with your dog. Its mix of rugged tors, wild open moorland, wooded valleys and peaceful rivers means every walk feels different, and there is always another corner of the park waiting to be discovered. With the right preparation and an understanding of the landscape, Dartmoor becomes a place where both you and your dog can enjoy memorable days out in all seasons.
If you enjoy exploring Dartmoor, you will also love the quieter and more varied landscapes and dog friendly walks of nearby Exmoor National Park or the vast dog friendly beaches that Devon has to offer. From coastal paths and ancient woodland to gentle riverside routes, Exmoor offers a completely different walking experience while still being incredibly dog friendly. You can find our full guide to dog friendly walks in Exmoor here, perfect for planning your next adventure beyond Dartmoor.