Trail Running and Hiking in Cornwall
From challenging moorland trails to coastal paths, discover incredible trail running and hiking opportunities near Waterloo Farm. Browse our featured routes below.
Safety Guidelines
Trail running and hiking in Cornwall require careful preparation. Please read these important safety guidelines:
Planning & Preparation:
- Research your route thoroughly before setting out
- Tell someone your planned route and expected return time
- Check weather forecasts - conditions change rapidly on moor and coast
- Assess your fitness level honestly against the route requirements
- Carry OS maps and compass/GPS - mobile signal is unreliable
- Start early to ensure adequate daylight
Moorland Safety:
- Weather on Bodmin Moor can be extreme and change without warning
- Mist and fog can descend rapidly, reducing visibility to metres
- Strong winds are common on exposed moorland
- Bogs and marshes can be hazardous - stick to paths
- Moorland streams can rise rapidly after rain
- In poor visibility, use compass/GPS navigation
Coastal Path Safety:
- Cliff edges can be unstable - stay on marked paths
- Never climb on cliffs or approach cliff edges
- Coastal weather can differ significantly from inland
- Be aware of tide times on beach sections
- Strong winds near cliff edges are dangerous
- Emergency access can be limited on remote coastal sections
Essential Equipment:
- Appropriate footwear with good grip
- Waterproof and windproof jacket
- Warm layers (even in summer)
- Water (1-2 litres minimum)
- High-energy food
- First aid kit
- Whistle (for emergency signaling)
- Charged mobile phone
- Head torch (if there’s any risk of being out after dark)
- Emergency shelter/survival bag for moorland routes
Weather Awareness:
- Don’t underestimate how quickly conditions can deteriorate
- Wind chill can be severe, especially on moorland
- Hypothermia is a risk even in summer
- If weather deteriorates seriously, abandon your route
Emergency Procedures:
- In emergency, call 999 and ask for Police (they coordinate moorland rescue)
- For coastal emergencies, call 999 and ask for Coastguard
- Use the what3words app to provide precise location
- If lost in poor visibility, stay put and call for help
- Three whistle blasts repeated is a distress signal
Never underestimate Cornish terrain and weather. If in doubt, choose an easier route or postpone your trip.