Walks in Yorkshire Dales National Park
If exploring the countryside by foot is up there with your favourite pastimes, you don’t want to miss out on the timeless natural and ancient delights spanning England’s Yorkshire Dales National Park. The contrast of verdant valleys lined with stone walls steeped in history and limestone karsts grabbing attention in the southern Dales makes for top-notch walking adventures. Meanwhile, conquering one of the Three Peaks—Ingleborough, Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside—is likely on most avid walker’s adventure list of to-dos when they visit here. The ultimate goal would be to complete all Three Peaks in one go. Unfortunately, this challenging walk usually takes around 12 hours to do! That being said, walking in Yorkshire Dales National Park is a possibility for all ages and abilities—all you need to do is choose which walk suits your style, your mood, and let the outstanding scenery work its charm as you explore.
The Greatest Walks in Yorkshire Dales National Park
Yorkshire Dales National Park is the ultimate walking paradise! You’ll find a range of walks: family-friendly, pushchair and wheelchair-friendly, challenging, relaxed, incredibly scenic (hello: karsts, postcard-perfect villages, rolling countryside), and the list goes on. Take a look at some of the greatest walks in Yorkshire Dales National Park and start compiling your list of must-do adventures:
- Aysgarth Woods Circular Walk - It won’t take much to convince friends and family to join you on the Aysgarth Woods Circular Walk, where an explosion of surprises await! The path winds to cascading waterfalls, secluded woodlands and takes you along River Ure. And the cherry on top is the Bolton Castle, a marvel steeped in history.
- Bucken Pike and Lead Mine Walk - Get ready for a challenge as you ascend the highest peak in the Dales! Expect your lungs to undergo little reprieve as you’ll spend most of this walk travelling uphill. But walks that get your heart usually going always end with stunning views—and this walk is a rewarding one.
- Whernside Circular Walk - Get up close with one of the Yorkshire Peaks on the Whernside Circular Walk. Immerse in countryside scenery and take on Whernside, the first of the Yorkshire Peaks. Enjoy a mirage of cascading waterfalls as you make your way around this 12.9 km loop. Prepare for unpredictable weather at the top!
- Malham Tarn Walk - Discover some of the Yorkshire Dales best features on the moderately challenging 12.2 km Malham Tarn Walk! Walk by a montage of incredible views, including coves, ravines, and waterfalls as you take on heart-pumping undulations. One of the main highlights is Gordale Scar, a stunning ravine!
- Malham Circular Walk - Explore magical scenery on the 10.6 km Malham Circular Walk, where you can immerse in the melting glaciers and mirage of waterfalls brimming with lime and dropping onto the rocks below, resulting in the creation of brown tufa! Plus, the wildflowers sprinkling the path in the warmer months add a layer of beauty to this walk.
- Pen-y-Ghent Circular Walk - The Pen-y-Ghent Circular Walk doesn’t only introduce you to one of the Yorkshire Dales Peaks, but it lets you explore Hull Pot and Hunt Pot, where you can admire the stream dropping 61 m into a cave-like space. Revel in views of the other two peaks—Ingleborough and Whernside—as you take on this 9.5 km loop!
- Grimwith Reservoir Walk - Looking for a family-friendly walk in the Yorkshire Dales? The Grimwith Reservoir Walk winds by waterfront views tucked into rolling countryside hills! The best part is that those needing pushchairs can enjoy this walk.
- Swaledale Meadows to East Gill Force and Kisdon Force Walk - Explore quintessential views of the English countryside elevated by cascading waterfalls on the Swaledale Meadows to East Gill Force and Kisdon Force Walk. You’ll pass by four waterfalls, vistas of Pennine Way, and during the summer, marvel at the wildflowers adding colours to the scenery.
- Ingleton Waterfalls Circular Walk - The Ingleton Waterfalls Circular Walk is another fantastic family-friendly walk that boasts a relaxing path, gentle terrain, and a 6.9 km distance! Discover lovely scenery and sparkling waterfalls as you make your way around the loop.
- Grassington Walk - Wanting to bring your furry friends on a walk? Consider taking on the easy-going 11.7 km Grassington Walk that winds by pastures, meadows, and a river! Expect moderate ascents as well as stiles and steps on this walk.
When Is The Best Time To Walk in Yorkshire Dales National Park?
The best time to walk in the Yorkshire Dales is during the warmer months—June to September—when the paths are dry, and you can catch unobstructed views! However, while the weather is better during the summer, this is also when tourists love to flock here, so make sure you book any accommodations well in advance. On a different note, spring boasts lovely vibrant scenery, making it a great time to visit the Dales. Just be ready for a spectrum of weather possibilities.
Best Regions for Walking in Yorkshire Dales National Park?
You’ll find great walks carved all over the Yorkshire Dales, but if you want to settle in one spot for a few days, Malham is your go-to spot, especially with epic places, such as the Gordale Scar, Malham Cove, and Malham Tarn, nearby. This quaint village is also located along the Pennine Way! To explore the Three Peaks area, which covers 160.0 km, head to the western Dales.
Other Outdoor Activities in Yorkshire Dales National Park?
Other outdoor activities in Yorkshire Dales National Park include exploring the limestone caves and road and mountain biking! Cyclers will love the range of tracks winding throughout the untouched countryside, replete with 900.0 km of Roman roads, bridleways, green lanes, and more. One of the more popular challenging routes is the 210km Yorkshire Dales Cycleway.
Tap into your adventurous side by checking out one or more of the 2500 caves spanning the limestone landscape! First-timers will likely enjoy the beginners' route: Long Churns. If you’re claustrophobic, you’ll be happy to know that caving isn’t all about getting on your hands and knees, as some have massive chambers, such as Gaping Gill.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the prettiest village in the Yorkshire Dales?
Kirkby Lonsdale is not only the biggest village in the Yorkshire Dales, but the surplus of local walks and timeless architecture harking to centuries past make this a great spot to visit! Another great option is Hawes, a lovely village lined with picturesque stone houses. Finally, while also being one of the best places to stay for epic walks, Malham is also a charming village worth visiting.
What are the Yorkshire Dales known for?
Yorkshire Dales boasts rolling countryside views, limestone karsts, caves, ravines, and waterfalls. It’s like exploring a supernatural version of the countryside!
How big is the Yorkshire Dales?
The Yorkshire Dales covers 841 square kilometres, granting a lot of room to find space, even on busier days!
Find more walking regions
- Lake District Walks
- Peak District Walks
- South Downs Walks
- Loch Lomond & The Trossachs Walks
- Chiltern Hills Walks
- Snowdonia Walks
Or use this link to find all walking regions in the UK.
Best Hikes in Yorkshire Dales National Park
Coast to Coast Walk Segment 8: Reeth to Richmond
The Coast to Coast Walk Segment 8: Reeth to Richmond is a beautifully scenic walking route in Yorkshire Dales National Park that is often completed as part of a 292.9 km journey across Northern England; however, it is more than acceptable to complete just this small section of it! Along the trail, you will experience the beautiful valleys, rolling hills, and moorland terrain that can be found within the park. Don’t forget to arrange a pick up for the end of your walk, as this is a one-way trail.
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Ravenseat to Keld and Muker Walk
The walk from Ravenseat to Keld and Muker is a fantastic journey through some of the most charming terrain in Yorkshire Dales National Park. When out on the trail, you will walk along the valley floor and visit a series of waterfalls, while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding hills and moorland terrain. This is a wonderful point-to-point adventure that will allow you to really experience the landscape of the dales.
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Cautley Spout, Howgill Fells, and the Calf Walk
The Cautley Spout, Howgill Fells, and the Calf Walk is a rugged, yet stunningly beautiful adventure on the northern edge of Yorkshire Dales National Park that offers amazing views of the surrounding landscape. While out on the trail, you will climb uphill across the barren and undulating terrain of the moor, passing by waterfalls and traversing hilltops as you loop around the landscape. This journey can be challenging at times, but it is certainly worth it to experience the natural beauty of the dales.
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Cautley Spout and the Calders Walk
The Cautley Spout and the Calders Walk is a difficult adventure in Yorkshire Dales National Park that will produce gorgeous views of the surrounding landscape. While out on the trail, you will climb up the steep hillside and make your way across the moorland terrain to reach a beautifully scenic waterfall before traversing several hilltops on the return. There is a fair amount of elevation gain that makes this route challenging; however, it does follow along a good path, making it manageable for casual and seasoned walkers alike.
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Stone House and Great Knoutberry Hill Walk
The Stone House and Great Knoutberry Hill Walk is a difficult undertaking in Yorkshire Dales National Park, but it is also an incredibly scenic journey. While out on the trail, you will traverse the undulating landscape of the dales and pass through a charming village before climbing uphill to the summit of Great Knoutberry Hill for sweeping views of the park. This is a spectacular route that offers a great mix of exercise and killer scenery.
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Whernside via Craven Way
The Whernside via Craven Way Trail is an amazing - if long - adventure in Yorkshire Dales National Park that will lead you up to the summit of Whernside, the highest of the Yorkshire Three Peaks. While on the trail, you will traverse the open countryside and climb uphill across the moor to reach the summit before descending along a road to return to the village. This is a spectacular way to experience the beauty of the Yorkshire Dales.
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Dent and the Dales Way
The Dent and Dales Way is a wonderful walking route in Yorkshire Dales National Park that climbs up the hillside for beautiful views overlooking the valley. Along the trail, you will make your way up a steep ascent to take in the views of Dentdale and the surrounding mountains before traversing the hillside on the riverside return into the village. This is a varied trail with beautiful views, making it a great option for walkers of all types.
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Beamsley Beacon Trail
The Beamsley Beacon Trail is a quick and easy adventure in the southeast corner of Yorkshire Dales National Park that climbs uphill for scenic views. Along the trail, you will head uphill and make short work of the sloped terrain, reaching the summit of Beamsley Beacon for sweeping views of the moor to the east and the sprawling green fields to the west. This amazing adventure is perfectly suited for a fun family excursion.
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Great Knoutberry Hill Walk
The Great Knoutberry Hill Walk is a breathtaking adventure in the Yoprkshire Dales that will take you on a somewhat challenging climb uphill for scenic views. While out on the trail, you will work your way up the hillside and onto the ridge known as Widdale Fell, pushing your way up the dome-shaped summit of Great Knoutberry Hill for stunning views. This route will give you a bit of a leg burn, but the views are well worth it.
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Ribblehead and Chapel le Dale Walk
The Ribblehead and Chapel le Dale Walk is a beautiful walk in the Yorkshire Dales that will take you through the countryside for views of the valley. While out on the trail, you will pass by the wonderfully constructed Ribblehead Viaduct before traversing the open fields on the way to the village of Chapel le Dale. Although it is an intermediate length route, the laid-back terrain makes this walk suitable for the whole family.
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Whernside and Ingleborough Circular Walk
Walking the Whernside and Ingleborough Circular Trail is a challenging, yet beautifully scenic adventure that will take you uphill to the two highest peaks in the Yorkshire Dales. While out walking the trail, you will first climb up the rugged terrain of the moor to reach the summit of Whernside before heading down into the valley and back up the opposite side to climb to the summit of Ingleborough. It may be a difficult walk, but the stunning views are almost unmatched.
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Ingleborough NNR Circular Walk
The Ingleborough NNR Circular Walk is a fantastic adventure within Yorkshire Dales National Park that offers gorgeous views of the surrounding landscape and is suitable for all ages and skill levels. While out on the trail, you will make your way around the slopes of Ingleborough - the second highest peak in the Yorkshire Dales - as you pass through a scenic nature reserve that is home to a variety of plant and animal species. It can be a bit busy at times, but this is a route that you won’t want to miss.
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Ingleborough, Simon Fell, and Park Fell Walk
The Ingleborough, Simon Fell, and Park Fell Walk is a beautifully scenic, yet challenging route in Yorkshire Dales National Park that will see you summit the second highest peak in the region. While out on the trail, you will climb up the steep hillside to reach the summit viewpoint atop Ingleborough before descending the mountain along the rugged terrain of Simon Fell and Park Fell. This is certainly a tough walk; however, it is doable for casual and seasoned walkers alike.
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Ribblehead Circular Walk
The Ribblehead Circular Walk is a great excursion that can be undertaken by beginner and seasoned walkers alike, as it features laidback terrain and scenic views across Yorkshire Dales National Park. While out on the trail, you will pass by the historic Ribblehead Viaduct and follow along the rail line before traversing the open countryside along the lower slopes of Whernside. There isn’t anything overly technical or challenging about this walk, making it a fun adventure for all.
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Pen-y-Ghent and Plover Hill Walk
The Pen-y-Ghent and Plover Hill Walk is an amazing route in Yorkshire Dales National Park that will lead you uphill to the third highest point in the region. While out on the trail, you will climb up the steep hillside to the summit of Pen-y-Ghent and descend the opposite side along Plover Hill before visiting Hull Pot - the largest natural hole in England - on the return leg. There is a bit of uphill walking on this route, but the well-maintained paths make it suitable for all skill levels.
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Bolton Abbey, River Wharfe, and Hare Head Circular Walk
Walking the Bolton Abbey, River Wharfe, and Hare Head Circular Trail is an amazing adventure in Yorkshire Dales National Park that features laidback terrain and beautiful views of the Wharfedale landscape. While out on the trail, you will climb uphill through open fields and the moor before looping around the valley on a riverside return to the car park. This is a wonderful intermediate length route that can be enjoyed by a wide variety of outdoor enthusiasts.
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Middleham Gallops Walk
The Middleham Gallops Walk is a fascinating route along the edge of Yorkshire Dales National Park that offers the chance to visit an historic castle and take in views of the countryside. While out walking the trail, you will make your way past the ruins of Middleham Castle - the childhood home of King Richard III - before strolling through the picturesque countryside. This is a great walk for nature and history lovers alike.
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Muker and Swaledale Walk
The Muker and Swaledale Walk is a beautifully scenic excursion in Yorkshire Dales NAtional Park that will see you experience lovely views across the meadows that make up the valley floor. While out on the trail, you will traverse an elevated position along the edge of the moor to enjoy views across Swaledale before following the banks of the River Swale on the return leg. This is a laid back adventure for anyone who appreciates scenic views.
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Bolton Abbey and the River Wharfe Walk
The Bolton Abbey and the River Wharfe Walk is an amazing adventure in Yorkshire Dales National Park that will provide the chance to visit interesting historical sites and take in some scenic views. While out on the trail, you will make your way along the winding banks of the River Wharfe and take in views across the valley, all while stopping in at unique historical sites like the Bolton Priory and Barden Tower. This is certainly a great walking route for those interested in local history.
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Conistone Dib and Mossdale Scar Walk
The Conistone Dib and Mossdale Scar Walk is a rough and rugged adventure in Yorkshire Dales National Park that will take you to some caverns and offers scenic views of the landscape. While out on the trail, you will traverse the open countryside and visit the village of Conistone before climbing uphill across the moor to visit the Mossdale Caverns. Parts of this trail are a bit rugged and tricky to navigate, so a GPS might be a good idea to stay on track.