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Red Squirrel Red Squirrel - Credit: Whitfield Benson

Red Squirrel Trail

The Snaizeholme red squirrel viewing area lies in the heart of the Widdale Red Squirrel Reserve. Coniferous woodland is ideal habitat for red squirrels. However squirrels can be difficult to see in such densely planted woodlands. We have worked with the local landowners to create a red squirrel viewing area for the public.

See squirrels and other wildlife

The Snaizeholme viewpoint and surrounding woodland offer an excellent chance of getting superb views of red squirrels as they visit a feeder in a woodland clearing. With luck you may also see roe deer, along with a variety of woodland birds such as siskin, lesser redpoll and perhaps even a common crossbill.

Getting there

The Little White Bus operates a book in advance service throughout the year from the Dales Countryside Museum to the start of the Red Squirrel trail. From the drop-off point, it is a 2.5 mile circular walk to the red squirrel viewpoint. The bus journey tasks approximately 15 minutes. Make sure you arrange a time with the driver to come back for you!

The landowner also has two bookable car parking spaces for visitors to use for a charge. These must be booked in advance through the Hawes National Park Visitor Centre.

The route includes sections of rough or uneven ground, steps and steep gradients. Please wear strong shoes or boots with good grip.

We’ve designed a downloadable map of the Red Squirrel trail that you can print off and take with you. You can also download the leaflet for the Red Squirrel trail.

Pick up a souvenir

Remember your visit to the Yorkshire Dales by purchasing a red squirrel pin-badge.  The badge is individually wrapped so can make a great gift for family and friends.  All the money from the sale goes to towards red squirrel conservation in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Red squirrel pin-badges are available from our National Park Visitor Centres, local businesses around the Dales and online.