Patnitop sits at the centre of a network of forest trails through deodar and pine. The most popular walk is to Nathatop, 3 km uphill through the forest, gaining around 700 metres in elevation. The trail is clear and well-walked; allow two hours up and ninety minutes down.
Longer routes head through the forest toward Natha Top and continue along the ridge, giving sustained views of the Chenab valley. A guide from the main village can be hired for the less-frequented trails, which is worth doing in summer when bears are occasionally active in the area. The plateau meadows themselves are good for easier walks — flat, open, and with views of the surrounding peaks on clear days.