The best waterfall hikes and walks around Ingleton

Ingleton offers a diverse range of waterfall hiking trails, with over 20 routes available for exploration. These trails vary in difficulty, from easy strolls to more challenging hikes, all set within the stunning limestone landscape of the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

Yes, Ingleton has options for families looking for easier waterfall hikes. While the famous Ingleton Waterfalls Trail is a popular choice, for a slightly shorter, moderate option, consider the Baxenghyll Gorge Waterfall – View of Twistleton Scar loop from Ingleton. This 3.2-mile (5.1 km) trail offers beautiful views and takes about 1 hour 31 minutes to complete, making it manageable for many families.

The most popular waterfall hiking route is the Five waterfalls loop from Ingleton — Yorkshire Dales National Park. This 4.5-mile (7.3 km) trail typically takes around 2 hours 12 minutes and showcases multiple cascades within the national park, including famous ones like Thornton Force and Beezley Falls.

Waterfall hikes around Ingleton immerse you in a dramatic landscape of limestone countryside, deep caves, and impressive waterfalls. You'll encounter wooded glens, glacial formations, high cliffs, and deep dry gorges. The rivers Doe and Twiss carve through the terrain, creating numerous cascades and contributing to the area's unique geological character.

Many of the waterfall trails around Ingleton are circular, allowing you to experience diverse scenery without retracing your steps. A great example is the View of Twistleton Scar – Baxenghyll Gorge Waterfall loop from Ingleton, a moderate 6.4-mile (10.4 km) path that offers views of Twistleton Scar and leads through the Baxenghyll Gorge.

The trails in Ingleton are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 1600 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the stunning waterfalls, the dramatic limestone scenery, and the well-maintained paths that make exploring the region a memorable experience.

Beyond the waterfalls, Ingleton is known as the 'Land of Waterfalls and Caves.' You can explore impressive subterranean features like Ingleborough Cave or the massive collapsed cavern of Hull Pot. The Baxenghyll Gorge Waterfall itself is a prominent feature, and you can also find viewpoints like View of Twistleton Scar offering panoramic vistas.

While specific public transport options to the trailheads can vary, Ingleton village itself is a hub. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for services connecting to the village, from which many popular waterfall trails, including the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail, are accessible on foot.

Given the varied terrain and potential for changing weather in the Yorkshire Dales, it's recommended to wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good grip. Layered clothing is essential, including waterproof outer layers, as conditions can change quickly, and paths near waterfalls can be wet and slippery. Even in winter, the trails are accessible, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially icy conditions.

For those seeking a longer, moderate challenge, the Hollybush Spout Waterfall – Baxenghyll Gorge Waterfall loop from Nutstile Farm is a great option. This route covers approximately 10 miles (16 km) and takes around 4 hours 40 minutes, offering extensive views and multiple waterfall encounters.

Many trails in the Yorkshire Dales are dog-friendly, but specific policies can vary, especially for privately managed attractions like the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail which may have an entrance fee and specific rules for dogs (often requiring them to be on a lead). Always check the specific trail's guidelines before you go to ensure a smooth experience for you and your pet.

Ingleton village offers various parking facilities, particularly for visitors accessing the popular Ingleton Waterfalls Trail. There are usually designated car parks available, though they may incur a fee. For other trails starting outside the village, look for smaller, often free, parking areas or roadside parking where permitted.