Highlight (Segment) • Forest
Blackwater Arboretum
Hiking
4.9
(251)
This Highlight goes through a protected area
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Tips
February 20, 2019
Hiking
August 2, 2020
Hiking
August 23, 2020
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Blackwater Arboretum
4.8
(219)
621
hikers
13.2km
03:26
80m
80m
Embark on the Whitefield Moor loop for a moderate hike through the diverse landscapes of New Forest National Park. This 8.2-mile (13.2 km) route, with a gentle 274 feet (84 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 hours and 25 minutes to complete. You will wander along gravel paths and natural ground, transitioning from open heathland with gorse to serene woodland glades alongside the tranquil Ober Water. The trail also leads you through the impressive Tall Trees Trail, where towering redwoods and Douglas firs create a striking canopy. Expect varied scenery, from expansive moorland views to the unique Blackwater Arboretum, and keep an eye out for wild ponies and deer.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the route is well-marked and generally flat, making it suitable for families and a wide range of hikers. You can find accessible parking and toilets conveniently located at the Whitefield Moor car park, which serves as the trailhead. While the paths are well-maintained, some areas can become muddy after rainfall, so waterproof footwear is advisable. Wooden bridges over Ober Water might also be slippery in wet conditions.
The Whitefield Moor loop is notable for showcasing the New Forest's rich biodiversity and charm in a single, accessible route. It seamlessly blends ancient woodlands, significant arboretums, and expansive heathlands with bubbling streams. A unique highlight is the presence of free-roaming New Forest ponies, cattle, and donkeys, which are an integral part of the landscape. The trail offers excellent opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts to spot various birds and deer, adding to the immersive experience.
4.5
(37)
130
hikers
5.61km
01:27
30m
30m
Explore the Blackwater Arboretum loop, a moderate 3.5-mile (5.6 km) hike in New Forest National Park that takes around 1 hour and 26 minutes to complete, with a gentle 97 feet (30 metres) of elevation gain. You will wander through a distinctive woodland setting, passing majestic conifers planted in the 1850s, including some of Britain's oldest Douglas fir trees and towering giant redwoods. The trail offers a relaxed stroll on mostly flat, well-maintained gravel paths, providing a sensory experience with changing colors throughout the seasons, especially vibrant in autumn.
This accessible route is suitable for all ages and abilities, including children and those with pushchairs designed for gravel. The car park offers convenient amenities like picnic tables, public toilets, and bike racks, making it easy to start your adventure. While generally reliable year-round, be aware that sections might become damp after prolonged rainfall. You will find frequent benches along the trail for resting, ensuring a comfortable visit.
What makes this trail truly special is its nationally important collection of trees from around the world, complemented by engaging wooden sculptures depicting seeds from various trees like sycamore and oak. These tactile sculptures are part of the "Our Past, Our Future" conservation project, adding an interactive element to your hike. Keep an eye out for informational signage providing context about the tree species and the site's history, and you might even spot wild New Forest ponies roaming nearby.
4.8
(195)
598
hikers
17.5km
04:31
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Distance 602 m
Uphill 10 m
Downhill 10 m
Weather
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Friday 12 June
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11°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 19.0 km/h
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