Butterfly trail at Haldon Forest Park

Our longest walking trail takes you deep into the forest and through a butterfly habitat area, where we work with Butterfly Conservation to support some special butterfly species.

Trail description

The Butterfly trail sets out along the Haldon Ridge, past an expansive view of Exeter and the surrounding countryside. Continue back under the canopy, down a gentle slope, and over the road. Follow the waymarkers downhill over a range of surfaces and into the butterfly conservation area. More than 30 butterfly species have been recorded here, including one of Britain's rarest butterflies, the pearl-bordered fritillary.

Step back under the towering trees as the trail follows some steep climbs and descents. Enjoy a level section along the stream before starting the climb back to the visitor hub through an atmospheric tunnel of rhododendron. Continue uphill and into a disused quarry, now home to some magnificent conifer trees, before returning to the car park.

What to expect

The Butterfly trail has varied surfaces. The butterfly conservation area can become muddy during wet weather. The trail has steep sections, steps, and lengthy climbs and descents.

There are rest points spaced along the start and end of the trail. Rest points are infrequent during the steep sections.

This trail is suitable for all-terrain mobility scooters which can follow the step-free access waymarkers. The trail includes two road crossings with wooden chicanes that are wide enough for mobility scooters.

Watch our real-time video to see the surfaces and features of the step-free version of the Butterfly trail.