Drake's Trail: Magpie Viaduct and Bluebell Woods
Drake's Trail: Magpie Viaduct and Bluebell Woods
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Drake's Trail: Magpie Viaduct and Bluebell Woods
Hiking
4.7
(36)
This Highlight goes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
June 20, 2023
Hiking
You will pass through enchanting forestry featuring seasonal bluebells and over Magpie Viaduct, where you'll be afforded some wonderful birds-eye views of the surrounding landscape.
In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near Drake's Trail: Magpie Viaduct and Bluebell Woods
4.6
(50)
168
hikers
9.95km
02:44
160m
160m
Hike the Gem Bridge & Double Waters loop for a moderate 6.2-mile (10.0 km) adventure through Dartmoor National Park. This route features enchanting forestry, especially beautiful with seasonal bluebells, and offers views over the Walkham Valley from Gem Bridge. You will also cross the Magpie Viaduct, which provides expansive bird's-eye views of the landscape. The trail includes varied terrain, from good tracks to rough, wooded riverside paths, and can be wet or muddy in places.
This moderate hike, with an elevation gain of 531 feet (162 metres), typically takes around 2 hours and 43 minutes to complete. Be prepared for some steep ascents and descents, such as the climb from Double Waters to Walreddon Down. The paths can be stony and rooted, with standing water after rain, so good fitness and sure-footedness are helpful for navigating the diverse surfaces. Double Waters is a popular spot for picnics and wild swimming.
The trail is rich in history, incorporating sections of the old Horrabridge to Tavistock railway line, with remnants like brick bunkers and GWR fencing. Gem Bridge, an impressive structure 78 feet (24 metres) above the River Walkham, replaced Brunel's original viaduct and is part of the Drake's Trail. The unique Double Waters is where the River Walkham and River Tavy converge, a serene spot accessible only on foot.
4.6
(39)
112
hikers
15.4km
04:10
210m
210m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(5)
22
hikers
8.02km
02:13
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Distance 1.73 km
Uphill 20 m
Downhill 50 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Monday 15 June
17°C
12°C
-- %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: -- km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December