Simon’s Seat and Valley of Desolation Walk
The Simon’s Seat and Valley of Desolation Walk is a breathtaking adventure in Yorkshire Dales National Park, both literally and figuratively. While out on the trail, you will experience the beautiful setting alongside the River Wharfe before climbing up a steep hillside to Simon’s Seat and descending through the Valley of Desolation with its beautiful waterfalls. This is an action-packed route that is well worth the effort.
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Route Description for Simon’s Seat and Valley of Desolation Walk
The Simon’s Seat and Valley of Desolation Walk is a popular route in the Yorkshire Dales due to its breathtaking views that include the River Wharfe, the barren terrain of the moor, and the waterfalls within the valley. While there is another, similar route in the area that is a bit longer, this walk takes a bit of a shortcut to lead you through the beautiful Valley of Desolation.
Setting out from the car park, you will meander to the northwest along the banks of the River Wharfe, appreciating the calming riverside setting as you pass by the historic Barden Tower and arrive at Haugh Mill. From here, you will climb uphill to the northeast to reach Simon’s Seat, experiencing some stunning views across Yorkshire Dales National Park in the process.
After taking in the scenery, you will work your way around the eastern slopes of Earl Seat and pass through the Valley of Desolation, stopping to marvel at the beauty of the waterfalls within the valley before finishing off the final leg of the walk back to the trailhead.
Getting to the Simon’s Seat and Valley of Desolation Walk Trailhead
To get to the trailhead for the Simon’s Seat and Valley of Desolation Walk from Bolton Bridge, drive northwest on B6160 for 1.6 km and turn right. Continue on for 1.0 km and turn right again to enter the car park.
Route Information
Simon’s Seat and Valley of Desolation Walk Elevation Graph
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Nearby Trails
- Bolton Abbey to Barden Bridge Circular Walk
- Bolton Abbey and the River Wharfe Walk
- Bolton Abbey, River Wharfe, and Hare Head Circular Walk
- Beamsley Beacon Trail
- Haystacks and Twelve Apostles Walk
- Thruscross Reservoir Walk
- Embsay Crag Walk
- Sharp Haw Circular Walk
- Bolton Bridge to Simon’s Seat Walk
- Bolton Abbey and Barden Moor Walk
- Grassington Walk
- Grimwith Reservoir Walk