Heights of Hazely and Carlton Motte loop from Middleham Peat Road

The trail starts from Middleham Peat Road. While specific parking facilities aren't detailed, you would typically look for roadside parking near the trailhead on Middleham Peat Road itself.

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, as it's in the Yorkshire Dales National Park and crosses moorland, you should expect to encounter livestock. Always keep your dog under close control, preferably on a lead, especially near sheep or cattle.

The best time to hike this loop is during the dry summer months. The terrain, particularly the flat top of Height of Hazely on Carlton Moor, can be wet and boggy after rain, making appropriate footwear essential outside of drier periods.

No, there are no permits required or entrance fees to pay for hiking on public footpaths and bridleways within the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

The 12.7-kilometer loop features varied terrain. You'll encounter the grassy, 'British-desolate' flat top of Height of Hazely on Carlton Moor. Due to potential wet conditions, especially after rain, some experience walking across moorland is recommended, and sturdy, waterproof footwear is essential.

Key features include the prominent Height of Hazely Summit, offering expansive views. You'll also pass Penhill Crags and Beacon, another excellent viewpoint. A significant historical site is Carlton Motte, an 11th-century earthen mound that may have served as a watchtower.

This moderate 12.7-kilometer (7.9-mile) loop typically takes approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and stops.

Yes, sections of this route overlap with other paths. You'll find it intersects with parts of the National Byway Trans-Pennine Spur, the Yorkshire Dales Cycleway, and local routes like Middleham Peat Road, High Lane, and Low Lane.

This is classified as a moderate hike, requiring good fitness levels due to its 12.7-kilometer distance and 320-meter elevation gain. While not overly technical, some experience with moorland walking is beneficial, especially outside of dry summer months.

While the trail itself is remote, the historical Carlton Motte is noted to be somewhat tucked away behind the Foresters Arms Inn, suggesting there may be amenities in the nearby village of Carlton or Middleham.

The trail offers 'tremendous views from high above of the area'. From elevated positions like the Height of Hazely Summit and Penhill Crags and Beacon, you can expect sweeping vistas across the picturesque Yorkshire Dales landscape.