Gisburn Forest Trails
Lancashire
Gisburn Forest Trails covers an 11.3 km circuit through one of Lancashire's largest working forests, set in the rolling Bowland Fells. Starting from Stephen Park, the route follows broad forestry tracks and narrower woodland paths through a mix of conifer plantation and maturing broadleaf sections. The forest sits in a natural bowl that provides shelter from prevailing winds, making it a consistently comfortable walk even when conditions are poor on the surrounding hills. With 281 metres of gentle elevation gain spread across the full distance, the walking never feels demanding.
Dogs absolutely thrive on this dog friendly walk. The high off-lead potential through the forest interior means dogs can range freely along wide, well-surfaced tracks, and the deep woodland scent keeps noses working constantly. The quiet, enclosed atmosphere is particularly good for dogs who find busy or exposed environments stressful. Livestock is moderately likely around the forest boundaries, so leads are advisable on the outer sections. The forest drains well even after heavy rain, and the mix of soft forest floor and firm track keeps things comfortable underfoot throughout.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 11.3 km (7.0 miles)
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Duration
- 3 hr 30 min
- Walk Type
- Woodland
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- High
- Livestock Risk
- Moderate
- Facilities
- Car park, Cafe, Toilets
- Parking
- Gisburn Forest Hub (BB7 4TS) - £8 all day, first 20 mins free
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gisburn Forest Trails dog friendly?
Gisburn Forest Trails is a great choice for dogs, earning a solid 7 out of 10 for dog friendliness. The wide forestry tracks and quieter woodland paths give dogs plenty of room to move, and the enclosed forest atmosphere suits dogs who find busier or more exposed environments unsettling. The forest also drains well after rain, so the underfoot conditions stay comfortable whatever the weather.
Can dogs be off lead at Gisburn Forest Trails?
The forest interior offers excellent off-lead potential, with broad, well-surfaced tracks where dogs can range freely and the woodland scent gives them plenty to explore. That said, livestock is moderately likely around the forest boundaries, so it's worth putting leads on as you move towards the outer sections of the route.
What should I know before visiting Gisburn Forest Trails with my dog?
The trail is an 11.3 km circuit starting from Stephen Park, with 281 metres of gentle elevation gain that makes it accessible for most dogs without feeling too demanding. Parking is at Gisburn Forest Hub (BB7 4TS) and costs £8 for all day, with the first 20 minutes free , and there's a café and toilets on site, which is handy for longer visits. Keep a lead to hand for the boundary sections of the forest where livestock may be present.
Stephen Park Car Park, Gisburn Forest and Stocks, Slaidburn, Lancashire, BB7 4TS
53.9994, -2.3890
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