Easy hikes and walks in Gunoak Wood
4.3
(141)
1,271
hikers
62
hikes
Easy hiking trails in Gunoak Wood offer a diverse range of routes through West Devon's scenic landscapes. The area is characterized by woodlands, river valleys, and historical features such as Kit Hill, which provides panoramic views. Trails often follow streams and pass through varied terrain, suitable for different fitness levels.
Best easy hiking trails in Gunoak Wood
- The most popular easy hiking route is Hiking loop from Stoke Climsland, a 3.3 miles (5.3 km) trail that takes 1 hour 31 minutes to complete. This route features gentle elevation changes through the local countryside.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Quarry Pond – Engine House Chimney loop from Kelly Bray, an easy 3.1 miles (4.9 km) path. This trail explores areas with historical mining remnants and natural ponds.
- Local hikers also love the Kit Hill Trig Point – Engine House Chimney loop from Kelly Bray, a 2.7 miles (4.4 km) trail leading through historical sites and offering views from Kit Hill, often completed in about 1 hour 21 minutes.
- Hiking in Gunoak Wood is defined by woodlands, river valleys, and historical landmarks like Kit Hill. The network offers options for different ability levels, focusing on accessible easy hikes.
- The routes in Gunoak Wood are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 100 reviews. More than 1000 hikers have used komoot to explore Gunoak Wood's varied terrain.
Last updated: October 31, 2026
3
hikers
5.31km
01:31
130m
130m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
5.0
(1)
11
hikers
4.43km
01:21
150m
150m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
5
hikers
4.19km
01:10
80m
80m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
3.8
(5)
15
hikers
4.31km
01:11
70m
70m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
4.3
(3)
44
hikers
5.70km
01:36
110m
110m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
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Tips from the Community
Wheal Anna Maria – a copper and arsenic mine – covered 3.2 hectares and had over 6,850 cubic metres of arsenic flues! It was named after the Duchess of Bedford! Her main workings were on the ‘Main Lode‘ (the largest sulphide deposit in southwest England). When its rich copper waned, Devon Great Consols became the largest arsenic mine in the world because the margins of the copper-rich lode were dominated by arsenopyrite. In 1860 the copper lode at Anna Maria was up to 45 feet wide and yielding up to 80 tons per fathom, but by around 1880 the copper boom was over. Thankfully, arsenic production sustained the mine into the 1900s, until the company folded. Arsenic ore, unlike copper ore, was refined on site using the ‘calcination’ process – and at Wheal Anna Maria they yielded over 72,000 tons of refined arsenic! – Whoop!
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Nice spot to take a break and enjoy the views
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Easy-to-walk trail along the stream through an enchanted, green, mossy forest.
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Area of coniferous woodland, near Tavistock, situated on the banks of the river Tamar. The woods are home to plenty of hiking and bike trails, and offer plenty of scope for exploration.
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Kit Hill sits high above the Tamar Valley, overlooking the river and the valley it formed. The hill boasts a wide array of history, including 18 burial mounds, neolithic and bronze-age barrows, as well as pointers towards Cornwall's more contemporary mining history.
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Wheal Anna Maria was originally a copper and later an arsenic mine. The biggest arsenic mine in the world. The ruins you can see are from the arsenic calcining complex where the arsenic-ore was crushed then roasted (calcinated). The white powder of arsenic would coat the walls of the flues and be scraped off by men and children. They were protected from the extremely toxic poison only by cotton wool in their ears and noses and rags covering their mouths! They even had to scrape the white powder off their boots before going home.
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Beautiful views up here from Blanchdown Wood on the Mineral Railway. Look down and you will see the spoil heaps of the Great Devon Consols, the name of the mine once situated here. First copper and then arsenic was mined here and signs of the long gone industry can be seen throughout Blanchdown Wood.
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Another trig pointed Marilyn but nothing to write home about. A pretty part of the world no less. A 2.5 mile (4 km) windy stroll up Kit Hill 1,095 feet (334 m) near Tavistock before the wind and rain starts in earnest.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are there in Gunoak Wood?
Gunoak Wood offers a good selection of easy hiking trails, with over 35 routes specifically categorized as easy. In total, the area features more than 60 hiking routes, catering to various preferences.
Are the easy hiking trails in Gunoak Wood suitable for families with children?
Yes, many of the easy trails in Gunoak Wood are well-suited for families. Routes like the Path Along the Stream loop from Stoke Climsland, which is just over 4 km, offer gentle terrain and a delightful way to explore the 'enchanted, green, mossy forest' alongside a stream, making them enjoyable for all ages.
Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails in Gunoak Wood?
Gunoak Wood is generally dog-friendly, with many trails suitable for walks with your canine companion. It's always recommended to keep dogs under control, especially in areas with livestock or wildlife, and to check for any specific local signage regarding leash requirements.
Are there any circular easy hiking routes in Gunoak Wood?
Yes, Gunoak Wood features several easy circular routes, perfect for a relaxed outing. For instance, the Kit Hill loop is an easy 4.3 km circular hike that provides historical sites and diverse wildlife without requiring you to retrace your steps.
What kind of landmarks or natural features can I expect to see on an easy hike in Gunoak Wood?
Easy hikes in Gunoak Wood often lead through diverse landscapes. You can expect to see woodlands, river valleys, and historical features. Prominent landmarks include Kit Hill, which offers panoramic views and features ancient burial mounds, and the historic Horse Bridge over the River Tamar. Some trails also follow streams through mossy forests.
What are the typical terrain and surface conditions like on the easy trails?
The easy trails in Gunoak Wood generally feature varied terrain, including woodland paths, riverside tracks, and open countryside. Surfaces can range from well-trodden earth paths to gravel. While mostly gentle, some sections might be uneven, especially after rain, so appropriate footwear is advisable.
Is there parking available for hikers in Gunoak Wood?
Yes, parking is available at various access points around Gunoak Wood and its surrounding areas. Specific parking information can often be found near popular trailheads or in villages like Stoke Climsland and Kelly Bray, which serve as starting points for many routes.
Can I reach Gunoak Wood's easy hiking trails using public transport?
While Gunoak Wood is primarily accessed by car, some public transport options may serve nearby villages such as Stoke Climsland or Kelly Bray. It's best to check local bus schedules for routes connecting to these areas, which can then provide access to the trail network.
What is the best time of year to visit Gunoak Wood for easy hiking?
Gunoak Wood is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly pleasant for easy hiking. In spring, the woodlands burst with new growth, while autumn offers stunning foliage. Summer provides longer daylight hours, and even winter can be enjoyable on crisp, clear days, though paths may be muddier.
Are there any cafes or pubs near the easy hiking trails in Gunoak Wood?
Yes, you'll find cafes and pubs in the villages surrounding Gunoak Wood, such as Stoke Climsland and Kelly Bray. These establishments offer convenient spots for refreshments or a meal before or after your hike, providing a chance to experience local hospitality.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the easy trails in Gunoak Wood?
The easy trails in Gunoak Wood are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet woodlands, the scenic river valleys, and the historical points of interest like Kit Hill. The accessibility and variety of routes suitable for all fitness levels are also frequently highlighted.
What kind of wildlife and flora might I encounter on an easy hike?
Gunoak Wood is rich in biodiversity. On an easy hike, you might spot various bird species, small mammals, and a diverse range of plant life, especially in the 'enchanted, green, mossy forest' areas. The area's natural features and woodlands provide habitats for local flora and fauna.
Most popular routes in Gunoak Wood
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