Aira Force Extended Circular Walk

Route Description for Aira Force Extended Circular Walk

With a great opportunity to view several rushing waterfalls within relatively close proximity to the car park, the Aira Force Extended Circular Walk can become very busy with walkers and tourists. Make sure to arrive early enough to secure parking and beat the crowds to the viewpoints overlooking the falls. Additionally, stretches of the trail can become slippery and muddy, especially in the spring and winter seasons. Wear proper footwear and keep an eye on children when walking around the falls.

Although the route is a popular one, the crowds of people will not detract from the natural beauty that you will experience when looking out over the falls. The trail is a family-friendly one, with a cafe, toilets, and a gift shop all located in close proximity to the car park. From there, you will meander through the serene forest and take in the sights of the Aira Force, High Force, and High Cascades waterfalls before doubling back along the opposite bank of Aira Beck. This is great for a quick summer excursion when you want to explore the outdoors without the commitment of a longer route.

Setting out from the north end of the car park, follow the trail past the gift shop and picnic area, passing through one gate and crossing over a small stream to arrive at a junction in the trail. Head left here, and continue on for 0.3 km to arrive at a gate and a path on the right. Turn right here and keep straight through the serene forest atmosphere for 145 m, at which point you will arrive at the rushing waters of Aira Force.

After taking in the sights of the falls, continue north along the banks of Aira Beck for 0.3 km to arrive at the site of the next waterfall, High Force. Take in the spectacle of the falls and turn left along the path to arrive at a fork. Keep right for another 0.3 km, and you will come to a bridge spanning the stream at the site of the last waterfall, High Cascades.

Make your way over the bridge and turn left at the junction, following the path for 0.4 km to pass through charming stretches of forest and open terrain until you arrive at the northernmost point of the trail. When you reach the fork, turn back and keep straight along the path for 1.9 km, as it runs parallel to the stream and brings you back to the car park where you began the Aira Force Extended Circular.

Insider Hints for Aira Force Extended Circular Walk

• Areas around the car park and waterfalls can be extremely busy with visitors, so make sure to arrive early.
• Trail conditions in the winter/spring seasons can be a bit wet and muddy. Wear proper walking footwear to stay comfortable on the trail.
• Pop into the Aira Force tearooms for some refreshments or make your way to the gift shop near the car park for a souvenir.