This route covers 6km return.It involves around 273m of cumulative elevation gain.
The route reaches roughly 240m at its highest point.
Technically, the Valley of the Rocks Loop standard trail is a scramble. The walk is generally straightforward, with varying conditions depending on the immediate environment.
Overview
Technical Summary
The Valley of the Rocks is one of Exmoor's most famous and striking geological features. This very popular 3.
Feral Goats on the Tors. The 'X-Factor' is the bizarre sight of wild, feral Exmoor goats balancing precariously on the very tips of the towering, castle-like rock formations. Surrounded by these jagged tors (with names like Castle Rock and Ragged Jack), you feel as if you are walking through the ruins of an ancient, petrified city clinging to the edge of the sea.
Hazard Assessment
The paved section of the South West Coast Path from Lynton to the Valley is wide and level, but it is cut directly into a precipitous cliff edge dropping vertically hundreds of feet into the sea.
Many people attempt to scramble up Castle Rock. The rock is sharp gritstone, and a fall can be serious.
Route Summary
This is a scenic and highly accessible route.Check the local forecast and plan your schedule to allow ample time to enjoy the views.
Stage Breakdowns
Lynton to the Coast Path
Leaving the town via North Walk, joining the dramatic, level path cut into the sheer cliffs high above the sea.
The Valley of the Rocks
Entering the surreal dry valley, walking among the jagged tors, and watching the feral goats. Options exist to carefully scramble Castle Rock for 360-degree views.
Hollerday Hill Return
Taking the steep but well-maintained zig-zag path inland, climbing over the hill to descend back into Lynton behind the Town Hall.
Route
Geometry
Topographical Data & Reference Points
- Route Typehiking
- Highest Pointpeak elevation on route240m
- Lowest Pointvalley floor elevation130m
- GPS Location51.2330°N 3.8540°W
Technical Profile
Vertical Ascent Profile
An easy-to-moderate circular profile. Starting high in Lynton, the paved coastal path to the Valley is generally flat. The elevation gain occurs primarily on the inland return loop climbing up and over Hollerday Hill back to the town car parks.
Terrain Characteristics
Scramble terrain (Class 2) — involves fixed-rope sections or often required hand-use on steep terrain.
The physical demand is defined by the 6km distance and local environmental conditions rather than vertical gain.
Data referenced from regional park authority sources and topographic surveys.
Technical
Matrix Profile
The HikeMetrics Global Matrix provides an objective, multi-dimensional assessment of technical difficulty, exposure risk, and environmental load.
Risk Summary
Professional evaluation of route mechanics and environmental stress factors. Recommended for participants within specified technical scope.
This profile uses the HikeMetrics v1.0 risk matrix, prioritizing environmental stress and movement complexity over simple elevation metrics.
Technical Specs
Access & Logistics
Regulations
No permits. Do not feed or attempt to pet the feral goats; they have large horns and will butt if pressured.
Seasonality
The coastal path is highly exposed in winter gales but remains passable. Spring is beautiful, and the resident goats usually kid (give birth) around February/March. Regulations change; verify with the official park or local authority before departure.
Safety Index
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Next Operational Phase
Get Field Ready
Logistics & Permits
Verify all permit requirements and regional park access rules. High-season routes often require advance coordination for logistics.
View Requirements Protocol 02Field Preparation
Ensure equipment matches the technical demands of the specific terrain. Check current trail reports and humidity/wind variables.
View LoadoutExplore Similar Journeys
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Direct Comparison
Compare with Schynige Platte Panorama Trail
Compare terrain metrics, intensity scores, and physical demands side-by-side.
Core Concepts
Comparable Technical Routes
Topic grouping based on geography, physical exertion profile, and technical movement typology.
Route Questions
Is the path wheelchair or pushchair accessible?
Yes, but only in part. The coastal path from Lynton directly into the Valley (North Walk) is paved, level, and accessible. The return loop over Hollerday Hill is definitely not.
Do permit rules stay constant year-round?
Not always. Permit and guide requirements can change by season and region. Verify the latest rules with the official park office or local authority before departure.
What is the safest start-time strategy?
Start early and plan to clear exposed sections before midday. This reduces heat, storm, and visibility risk on most mountain routes.
How much water capacity is usually needed?
For exposed hiking days, carrying 2-3 liters is common. Increase capacity when refill reliability is low or temperatures are high.
Is mobile signal reliable on route?
Coverage is often patchy outside towns and major valleys. Treat phones as secondary tools and carry offline navigation resources.
Dossier Verification & Sync
Data points indexed in this dossier are cross-referenced against authoritative land management records and regional mapping. HikeMetrics maintains independent verification protocols for all primary route geometry.