The Yorkshire Dales is a fantastic place for walking, offering everything from gentle strolls to demanding hikes. With rolling hills, limestone cliffs and picturesque villages, there is plenty to explore. This guide covers some of the best walks in the area, including their difficulty levels, highlights and local wildlife you might see along the way.
The Three Peaks Challenge
Difficulty: Hard
Distance: 24 miles
Time: 10–12 hours (or over two to three days)
The Three Peaks Challenge is one of the toughest and most well-known routes in the Yorkshire Dales. This long-distance walk takes you to Pen-y-ghent, Whernside, and Ingleborough, covering steep climbs and rough terrain. Many aim to complete it in under 12 hours, but it can also be tackled at a slower pace over multiple days.
The route starts in Horton-in-Ribblesdale and begins with the climb up Pen-y-Ghent. Whernside, the highest of the three, offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The final climb up Ingleborough is challenging, but the flat summit is a great place to take a break before heading back down.
Curlews, lapwings and red grouse are common in this area, along with patches of wild heather and bilberry.
Malham Tarn Circular
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 7.5 miles
Time: 3–4 hours
The Malham Tarn Circular is a great option for a less demanding but rewarding walk. This route begins in the village of Malham and takes in some of the Dales’ most famous sights.
The first stop is Malham Cove, a huge limestone formation with a striking rock face and stunning views from the top. The walk continues through the dry valley of Watlowes before reaching Malham Tarn, a peaceful upland lake surrounded by limestone scenery.
Malham Tarn is home to a variety of birdlife, including great crested grebes, tufted ducks and oystercatchers. The return route follows a mix of grassy and rocky paths back to Malham.
Ingleton Waterfalls Trail
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Distance: 4.5 miles
Time: 2–3 hours
The Ingleton Waterfalls Trail is a fantastic choice for a scenic and accessible walk. The well-marked route follows the River Twiss and the River Doe, passing a series of stunning waterfalls along the way.
Starting in Ingleton, the walk follows a wooded path past Pecca Falls and Thornton Force, the largest waterfall on the trail. The second half of the route follows the River Doe, where Beezley Falls and Snow Falls provide more beautiful views.
Dippers, wagtails, and kingfishers are often seen along the riverbanks, adding to the walk’s charm. Although there are some steep sections and steps, this route is manageable for most walkers and is an excellent choice for families or those looking for a shorter but rewarding walk.
A Walking Destination for Everyone
The Yorkshire Dales has something for all walkers, from challenging long-distance routes to shorter scenic trails. Whether taking on the Three Peaks, exploring Malham Tarn, or following the waterfalls at Ingleton, every walk highlights the area’s beauty. With fresh air, stunning landscapes, and plenty of wildlife, walking in the Dales is always a great experience
To explore our selection of holiday cottages in the Yorkshire Dales, take a look here.
