Cauldron Snout and Cow Green Reservoir Walk
County Durham
Cauldron Snout is the longest cascading waterfall in England, a 180 metre torrent of white water tumbling over the Great Whin Sill directly below the dam at Cow Green Reservoir. The walk from the Cow Green car park follows a geological trail across the high North Pennines plateau before dropping you out at the top of the falls, and it is a dog friendly big-sky outing for owners who love wild, empty country and don't mind the weather.
Keep dogs on the lead on the exposed dam causeway, along the reservoir edge and especially at the top of Cauldron Snout where the rocks are slippery and the drop is serious. Upper Teesdale is full-on sheep country with grazing across the whole walk, so close control is non-negotiable. The outbound track is a good stone roadway, accessible as far as the dam, then the final section to the falls is rough, uneven and rocky. There are no facilities at the car park beyond a pull-in and toilets so bring supplies.
At a Glance
Walk Must-Haves
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, this is a dog friendly walk with a rating of 7.5 out of 10, and it's a genuinely rewarding outing for owners who enjoy wild, open countryside. That said, it's a remote and exposed route across the high North Pennines, so it suits dogs and owners who are comfortable with rugged terrain and unpredictable upland weather.
Off-lead time is limited on this walk. The entire route passes through active sheep grazing country in Upper Teesdale, so close control is essential throughout, and dogs must be kept on the lead on the dam causeway, along the reservoir edge, and at the top of Cauldron Snout where the rocks are slippery and the drop is serious.
The outbound track to the dam is a solid stone roadway, but the final section down to the falls is rough, uneven, and rocky, so sure-footed dogs will manage it best. There are no facilities at the car park beyond toilets, so bring water and supplies for both you and your dog; the nearest café is at the Langdon Beck Hotel or Bowlees Visitor Centre.
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