Settle Caves and Waterfalls Circular Walk

Difficulty
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Moderate
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
3.5-5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
14.8 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
392 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead

The Settle Caves and Waterfalls Circular Walk is a great way for beginner and seasoned walkers to experience the natural beauty of Yorkshire Dales National Park. While out on the trail, you will explore the countryside and traverse the rugged terrain of the moor, as you visit the scenic caves and waterfalls that dot the landscape. There is a bit of uphill walking to reach these highlights; however, they are well worth the effort.

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Route Description for Settle Caves and Waterfalls Circular Walk

If the aim of your walk is to visit as many natural highlights as possible, then the Settle Caves and Waterfalls Circular Walk is a great way to do so. Featuring sweeping views of the Yorkshire Dales and the opportunity to visit cave entrances and cascading waterfalls, there will definitely be no shortage of amazing views on this fun adventure.

Setting out from the trailhead in Settle, you will make your way uphill to the northeast, traversing the rugged moor until you reach the beautifully scenic location at the Catrigg Force waterfall. From here, you will turn to the southeast and head further uphill, walking a short distance along the road before making a quick climb up to the Jubilee, Albert, and Victoria caves. When excavated, these caves produced evidence of human and animal interaction dating from the Roman period all the way back to 130,000 years ago.

Continuing south along the trail, you will pass the imposing rock formation of the Warrendale Knotts, descending the hillside into Scaleber Wood to view the charming Scaleber Force waterfall. From here, you will head to the west and continue your descent along the rugged terrain of the moor until you arrive back in Settle.

Getting to the Settle Caves and Waterfalls Circular Walk Trailhead

To reach the trailhead for the Settle Caves and Waterfalls Circular Walk from the rail station in Settle, head east on Station Road for 145 m and turn left onto Duke Street. In 0.2 km, you will arrive at the trailhead.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    No

  • When to do

    March-October

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Circuit

Settle Caves and Waterfalls Circular Walk Elevation Graph

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Settle Caves and Waterfalls Circular Walk Reviews

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