The 20 Most Amazing Peaks around Ravenstonedale

The most popular mountain peaks around Ravenstonedale include The Calf Summit (Howgill Fells), which is the highest point of the Howgill Fells offering extensive panoramic views. Another highly regarded spot is Nine Standards, known for its mysterious cairns and superb views over Kirkby Stephen. Visitors also appreciate Calders Summit, a fell in the Howgill range near The Calf, considered excellent for navigation practice.

The region around Ravenstonedale is characterized by its distinctive natural features. You'll find the steep, grassy slopes of the Howgill Fells, often described as a 'herd of sleeping elephants'. Notable geological features include large outcrops of limestone pavements on Orton Scar and Great Asby Scar, which host diverse plant life in their deep crevices. The ascent to The Calf also passes the impressive 198-meter Cautley Spout waterfall.

Yes, several peaks offer expansive views. The Calf Summit provides panoramic vistas that can include the Yorkshire Three Peaks and a significant portion of the Lake District skyline on a clear day. Wild Boar Fell, at 708 meters, is also considered one of the best summits in the Dales for its views, offering sights of the Howgill Fells, Newbiggin-on-Lune, and Ravenstonedale. From Nine Standards, you can enjoy superb views over Kirkby Stephen and beyond.

The Howgill Fells are known for their distinctive terrain, characterized by steep, grassy slopes, many reaching 45-degree angles. The valleys primarily run north to south. While some areas, like Calders, are notoriously featureless, making them good for navigation practice, the overall landscape is one of rolling, rounded fells. You'll encounter a mix of open access land and sheep-grazed grass.

For an easier walk, a path from Orton leads directly to the summit of Orton Scar, offering a pleasant experience on open access land. While some routes to peaks like Nine Standards can be challenging, there are generally varied options. For specific family-friendly hiking routes, you can explore the Hiking around Ravenstonedale guide, which includes routes like the 'Paradise tarn and Fat Lamb Inn loop from Ravenstonedale' rated as easy.

Beyond hiking, the area around Ravenstonedale offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous mountain biking trails, such as those listed in the MTB Trails around Ravenstonedale guide, including the 'George Hotel, Orton – St Lawrence’s Church loop'. Cycling enthusiasts can explore routes like the 'Pendragon Castle ruins – Ravenstonedale Open Road loop' found in the Cycling around Ravenstonedale guide. The region's diverse terrain is ideal for exploration.

The highest point of the Howgill Fells is The Calf Summit, reaching 676 meters (2,218 feet). It offers extensive panoramic views and is a popular destination for hikers.

The region's peaks offer rewarding experiences throughout the year, but the best time for walking is generally during the warmer, drier months from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During these periods, paths are typically clearer, and the weather is more predictable, allowing for better visibility of the extensive panoramic views. Winter hiking is possible but requires appropriate gear and experience due to potentially challenging conditions.

Yes, Nine Standards is a notable man-made monument located at 662 meters. These curious cairns have an unknown origin, with some theories suggesting they were constructed by Romans to appear like troops from a distance. They are an iconic landmark in the area.

On Wild Boar Fell, near its 708-meter summit, you can find a shelter where you can sit and rest. This provides a welcome break for hikers enjoying the expansive views from one of the Dales' best summits.

The Howgill Fells are a distinctive group of fells that Ravenstonedale lies at the northeast corner of. They are characterized by their steep, grassy slopes and numerous named tops, including The Calf and Calders. They form a significant part of the landscape within the Yorkshire Dales National Park and are highly regarded for walking and their unique geological formations.

Yes, there are several circular hiking routes available. For example, a moderate 10.4 km (6.5 mile) loop from Ravenstonedale involves an ascent to the summit of Green Bell. More challenging loops, such as the Green Bell, Randygill Top, and Hooksey loop, can be started from Weasdale. You can find more options in the Hiking around Ravenstonedale guide.