Darwen Hill Loop

Starting near Blackburn with Darwen, England, the Darwen Hill Loop is a captivating 13 km (approximately 8 miles) trail with an elevation gain of around 300 meters (about 984 feet). This loop trail is rated as medium difficulty, making it suitable for moderately experienced hikers.### Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive to the nearest significant landmark, which is the Darwen Tower. For those using public transport, take a train to Darwen Station. From there, it's a short taxi ride or a brisk walk to the trailhead.### Trail Overview The Darwen Hill Loop offers a diverse hiking experience, featuring a mix of open moorland, wooded areas, and panoramic views. The trail is well-marked, but it's advisable to use HiiKER for navigation to ensure you stay on track.### Key Landmarks and Points of Interest - Darwen Tower (Jubilee Tower): Approximately 2 km (1.2 miles) into the hike, you'll encounter the iconic Darwen Tower. Built in 1898 to commemorate Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee, this landmark offers stunning 360-degree views of the surrounding countryside. The climb to the top of the tower is optional but highly recommended for the vistas. - Sunnyhurst Woods: Around the 5 km (3.1 miles) mark, you'll enter Sunnyhurst Woods, a serene area filled with mature trees and a variety of bird species. This section of the trail is relatively flat, providing a nice break from the initial climb. - Earnsdale Reservoir: At approximately 8 km (5 miles), you'll pass by Earnsdale Reservoir. This is a great spot to take a break and enjoy the tranquil waters. The reservoir is also a popular spot for birdwatching, so keep your binoculars handy.### Flora and Fauna The trail is rich in biodiversity. In the open moorland sections, you may spot heather, bilberry, and various grasses. The wooded areas are home to oak, beech, and pine trees. Wildlife enthusiasts can look out for deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species, including kestrels and owls.### Historical Significance The region around Darwen Hill has a rich history. The Darwen Tower itself is a historical monument, but the area also has remnants of old mill buildings and stone walls that date back to the Industrial Revolution. These historical elements add an extra layer of interest to your hike.### Trail Conditions and Safety The trail can be muddy, especially after rain, so waterproof hiking boots are recommended. Some sections are rocky and uneven, so trekking poles can be helpful. Always check the weather forecast before heading out and carry a map or use HiiKER for real-time navigation.### Final Stretch The last few kilometers of the trail will take you through more open moorland before looping back to the starting point near Darwen Tower. This section offers more stunning views and is a great way to end your hike on a high note.By following these guidelines and being well-prepared, you'll have a memorable and enjoyable experience on the Darwen Hill Loop.