Otter Trail
About this walking route
The Otter Trail is a moderate 5.7 km walk from Totton that loops through mixed woodland and open Forest terrain. Well-waymarked throughout, it takes around 1 hour 15 minutes at a steady pace and offers a good balance of woodland shelter and wider views across the New Forest landscape. Suitable for regular walkers looking for a half-day outing.
Highlights
- Mix of enclosed woodland and open heathland
- Waymarked route—easy to follow
- Moderate gradient, achievable for most fitness levels
- Potential to spot free-roaming Forest ponies and cattle
- Circular walk—no need for shuttle transport
What to expect
You'll walk on a mix of gravel forest tracks and narrower footpaths with some sections of softer ground. Terrain undulates gently across typical New Forest terrain—wooded inclosures alternate with open areas grazed by ponies, cattle and donkeys. The route is clearly waymarked. After heavy rain, expect muddy patches and puddled sections, particularly in lower-lying areas.
Good to know
- Dogs welcome (keep under control near livestock & wildlife)
- Waymarked route
Dogs are welcome on open access land but must be under close control near livestock and ground-nesting birds (March to July). Wear sturdy, waterproof walking boots—the Forest can be boggy after rain. There is no charge for this walk. Allow extra time if conditions are wet.