Can I Walk on the Camel Trail?
Yes! The Camel Trail is perfect for walking. As a multi-use trail owned by Cornwall Council, the Camel Trail welcomes walkers, runners, cyclists, horse riders, dog walkers, and wheelchair users. Whether you're looking for a gentle riverside stroll, a family-friendly ramble, or a full-day hiking adventure, the Camel Trail offers something for everyone.
Why the Camel Trail is Perfect for Walkers
The Camel Trail's flat, traffic-free surface makes it one of Cornwall's most accessible walking routes. The trail follows a disused railway line, which means gentle gradients and easy terrain – ideal for all ages and fitness levels. With stunning estuary views, peaceful woodland sections, and charming Cornish towns to explore, it's a walker's paradise.
To help plan your walk, check out our detailed Camel Trail Map showing the full route and access points.
Popular Walking Routes on the Camel Trail
Short Walk: Padstow to the Iron Bridge
Distance: 1 mile each way (2 miles return)
Difficulty: Easy
Perfect for: Families with young children, leisurely strolls
This gentle walk from Padstow takes you along the beautiful estuary with incredible birdwatching opportunities. The Iron Bridge makes a perfect turning point, and the views back towards Padstow are spectacular. It's short enough for little legs but long enough to feel like a proper adventure.
Half-Day Walk: Wadebridge to Padstow
Distance: 5 miles one way (10 miles return)
Difficulty: Easy – flat and traffic-free
Highlights: Stunning estuary views, abundant wildlife, bustling Padstow harbour
This is the most popular section of the Camel Trail for both walkers and cyclists. The flat route follows the beautiful Camel Estuary all the way to Padstow, where you can explore the town, enjoy lunch at one of the many cafés and restaurants, and return at your leisure.
The Wadebridge to Padstow section is more relaxing outside of school holidays when it's less busy. During the summer holidays, early mornings and evenings are a great time to explore this lovely part of the trail at a leisurely pace, when you can truly appreciate the tranquil beauty of the estuary.
For a shorter option, consider parking at Old Town Cove (see our Car Parks Along the Camel Trail guide) for a 2-mile walk into Padstow.
Countryside Walk: Wadebridge to Bodmin
Distance: 5 miles one way (10 miles return)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Highlights: Peaceful woodland, countryside views, historic Bodmin
Heading upriver from Wadebridge towards Bodmin offers a different character – more sheltered, wooded, and rural. This quieter route is perfect for those seeking a peaceful walk away from the busier Padstow section.
Quiet Woodland Walks
For peaceful, wooded trails away from the busier sections, consider starting from:
Wenfordbridge – Remote and tranquil with beautiful valley scenery
Shell Woods – Quiet woodland setting, perfect for nature lovers
Scarletts Well – The largest and most peaceful car park, with lovely wooded trails
Find full details and directions in our Car Parks Along the Camel Trail guide.
Extended Walking Adventures
Connect to the Southwest Coast Path
From Padstow, you can connect directly to the famous Southwest Coast Path, opening up endless walking opportunities along Cornwall's dramatic coastline. This makes the Camel Trail an excellent starting point for multi-day walking adventures.
Bodmin Parkway to Padstow
For a truly memorable full-day walk, you can start from Bodmin Parkway train station and walk all the way down to Padstow along the Camel Trail. This approximately 11-mile journey takes you through the heart of Cornwall's beautiful countryside, finishing in the picturesque harbour town of Padstow.
Circular Walks From the Camel Trail
Little Petherick Creek Circular Walk
Distance: Approximately 6 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Creekside paths, Saints' Way, charming villages
This delightful circular walk combines the Camel Trail with quiet creekside paths and a section of the historic Saints' Way. Starting from Little Petherick village (small car park by the village hall), follow the shores of Little Petherick Creek north to join the Camel Trail. Continue along the trail into Padstow for refreshments and harbour exploration.
Return via the Saints' Way, starting from the National Lobster Hatchery. Head along Station Road, turn left onto Dennis Road, and continue into Dennis Lane. Follow the waymarked Saints' Way back along the creek shores, enjoying peaceful countryside and beautiful views before returning to Little Petherick.
Wadebridge Hill Walk
For those wanting to add some elevation and country lanes to their Camel Trail walk, try this rewarding route from Wadebridge. Walk along the Camel Trail from Wadebridge towards Bodmin. Just after the bird hide on your right, take the footpath over the stone bridge and up a very steep hill – it's a challenge, but worth it!
At the top, treat yourself to a refreshing drink or lunch before heading back along the quiet lane towards Wadebridge. You can walk straight back down the hill to Wadebridge, or for a gentler descent, take a right turn after the showground and follow the smaller lanes back down to town.
Walking Tips for the Camel Trail
Share the trail: Remember you're sharing with cyclists, so stay alert and keep to the left where possible
Bring water: While there are cafés at Padstow, Wadebridge, and Bodmin, the trail itself has limited facilities
Check the weather: The estuary section can be exposed on windy days
Dogs welcome: The Camel Trail is perfect for dog walking, but please keep dogs under control and clean up after them
Wear appropriate footwear: While the surface is good, comfortable walking shoes or boots are recommended
Planning Your Camel Trail Walk
Whether you're looking for a short family stroll or a full-day walking adventure, the Camel Trail offers endless possibilities. Use our Camel Trail Map to plan your route, and check our Car Parks Along the Camel Trail guide for the best access points.
Need more information or advice?
Contact Bridge Bike Hire:
Tel: 01208 813050
Email: info@bridgebikehire.co.uk
We promise a warm welcome for everyone – even the family dog! While we specialise in bike hire, we're always happy to help with walking route advice and information about the Camel Trail.
