End of an Era at Moors Valley: Tree Top Trail Closes After 35 Years

Visitors to Moors Valley Country Park are saying goodbye to one of the park’s most iconic attractions after the much-loved Tree Top Trail officially closed following essential safety and maintenance checks.

For more than three decades, the elevated wooden walkway has been a highlight for families visiting Moors Valley, offering a unique way to experience the forest from above. Stretching approximately 200 metres through the woodland canopy, the trail provided stunning views across the surrounding forest and wetlands near Ringwood and Verwood, becoming a treasured part of childhood memories for generations across Dorset and Hampshire.

Park officials confirmed the closure came after careful inspections revealed the wooden structure had reached the end of its natural lifespan. Due to the age and condition of the materials, the difficult decision was made to permanently close the attraction in the interest of visitor safety.

The announcement has sparked an emotional response from local residents and regular visitors, many describing the closure as “the end of an era” for the popular country park. Hundreds of comments flooded social media, with families sharing memories of climbing through the trees, spotting wildlife and introducing children and grandchildren to the trail over the years.

For many visitors, the Tree Top Trail offered more than just a scenic walk. Parents spoke about how the peaceful elevated route provided a calming and accessible experience for children who could find busier playground areas overwhelming. Others remembered it as a key part of family days out at Moors Valley, alongside the park’s cycling routes, walking trails and outdoor play areas.

There have already been calls from members of the public to rebuild the attraction, with some suggesting crowdfunding initiatives or a redesigned version with improved accessibility for wheelchairs and pushchairs. While there are currently no plans for a replacement structure, Moors Valley has confirmed it is carefully considering how the area could be used in the future.

Located on the Dorset and Hampshire border, Moors Valley Country Park remains one of the South Coast’s most popular outdoor destinations, attracting visitors year-round for walking, cycling, nature activities and family adventures. Although the closure marks the end of a much-loved feature, many visitors will continue to hold fond memories of exploring the forest canopy high above the woodland floor.

The loss of the Tree Top Trail represents a significant moment in the park’s history, but also highlights the affection local communities have for Moors Valley and the important role it continues to play in family life across Dorset and Hampshire.  

https://moors-valley.co.uk/