Walking on open access land away from the main paths is more challenging but brings the rewards on being away from the crowds. Part of the joy is making up your own routes to explore the area, but to get you started here are a few prepared by our Rangers.
-
Open Access walk - Upper Wharfedale
Rewarding views of the Three Peaks and a bird's eye view of Upper Wharfedale.
Distance: 11-15 Miles
Features: High level route (visits fellsides)
Location: Wharfedale
-
A circular walk using the Pennine Way and open access land with views of Malham Tarn.
Distance: 3-5 Miles
Features:
Location: Malhamdale
-
Distance: 3-5 Miles
Location: Wharfedale
-
A circuit around the stunning Malham Tarn taking advantage of National Trust owned open access land.
Distance: 3-5 Miles
Features: Low level route (mostly valleys); High level route (visits fellsides)
Location: Malhamdale
-
Miles without stiles - Old Gang
An easy access walk close to Reeth which takes you to the remains of the Old Gang lead mine workings.
The smelt mill at Old Gang, in Arkengarthdale, was built in the early nineteenth century. A huge open-sided peat house, reputed to hold three years’ worth of fuel, was built nearby.
The first 3km of the route runs alongside Old Gang Beck to the remains of Old Gang Smelt Mill. The track to the smelt mill is at least 200cm wide and is surfaced with a well-compacted aggregate. The steepest gradient is a 1:10. From here the track becomes more undulating but the views along Swaledale are well worth it for those who like a challenge.
Whilst there, look out and listen for buzzard and raven in flight.
Distance: 3-5 Miles
Features: Accessible route
Location: Swaledale
-
Spectacular views of the Howgills, Three Peaks and Dentdale.
Distance: 6-10 Miles
Features:
Location: Dentdale; Garsdale
-
A remote walk with fine views of Cumbria and Brockholes waterfalls.
Distance: 6-10 Miles
Features: High level route (visits fellsides)
Location: Swaledale
