Ringwood Forest, Pistle Hill and Stephen's Castle Nature Reserve Loop

Starting near Dorset, England, this 11 km (approximately 6.8 miles) loop trail offers a delightful mix of natural beauty and historical intrigue. With an elevation gain of around 100 meters (328 feet), the trail is rated as medium difficulty, making it accessible for most hikers with a moderate level of fitness.

Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transport. If driving, set your GPS to the nearest known address: Ringwood Forest, Dorset. For those using public transport, the closest major town is Ringwood, which is well-connected by bus services from Bournemouth and Salisbury. From Ringwood, a short taxi ride or a local bus can take you to the forest entrance.

Trail Overview The loop begins in the serene Ringwood Forest, a sprawling woodland area known for its dense canopy of pine and oak trees. As you start your hike, you'll be greeted by the soothing sounds of birdsong and the rustling of leaves. The first section of the trail is relatively flat, making it a good warm-up for the more varied terrain ahead.

Pistle Hill About 3 km (1.9 miles) into the hike, you'll reach Pistle Hill. This area offers a gentle ascent, providing a slight challenge but nothing too strenuous. The hill is covered in a mix of heathland and woodland, offering a diverse range of flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for deer and various bird species that inhabit this area. The views from the top of Pistle Hill are quite rewarding, offering a panoramic vista of the surrounding forest and countryside.

Stephen's Castle Nature Reserve Continuing on, you'll arrive at Stephen's Castle Nature Reserve around the 6 km (3.7 miles) mark. This section is particularly rich in biodiversity, featuring a variety of habitats including heathland, woodland, and grassland. The reserve is named after the remnants of an ancient hill fort, Stephen's Castle, which dates back to the Iron Age. While not much of the fort remains, the historical significance adds an intriguing layer to your hike. The area is also a haven for wildlife, including rare butterflies and reptiles.

Navigation and Safety The trail is well-marked, but it's always a good idea to have a reliable navigation tool. HiiKER is an excellent app for this purpose, offering detailed maps and real-time tracking to ensure you stay on course. The terrain can be uneven in places, so sturdy hiking boots are recommended. Also, be prepared for changing weather conditions; carrying a waterproof jacket and some extra layers is advisable.

Final Stretch As you loop back towards the starting point, the trail takes you through more sections of Ringwood Forest. This final stretch is relatively flat and easy, allowing you to cool down and enjoy the last bit of nature before completing the loop. The entire hike should take around 3 to 4 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop to take in the sights.

Points of Interest - **Ringwood Forest:** Dense woodland with a variety of tree species. - **Pistle Hill:** Offers panoramic views and diverse wildlife. - **Stephen's Castle Nature Reserve:** Rich in biodiversity and historical significance.

This trail offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue, making it a rewarding experience for any hiker.