Raptor trail at Haldon Forest Park

Explore the wide variety of forest environments at Haldon Forest and get to know the history of the Haldon Hills with our information panels dotted along the way. Don't miss the turn-off to the bird of prey viewpoint to see who you can spot soaring above the trees!

Trail description

The Raptor trail sets off downhill along King's Ride, built by Sir Robert Palk for the visit of King George III in 1789, guiding you through some of Haldon's tall conifer trees. A steep zigzag climb leads to the road crossing and the turning to the bird of prey viewpoint shortly afterwards.

Return from the viewpoint and follow the waymarkers downhill. Enjoy some more of Haldon's mature trees as the trail gently rises back uphill. Cross over the forest road and up the slope as the trail meanders through mixed conifer trees and back to the visitor hub.

What to expect

The Raptor trail is wide and fully surfaced. Expect some steep climbs and descents. There are rest points spaced along the trail.

This trail is suitable for most mobility scooters and for all-terrain mobility scooters. 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 Raptor trail.