The best walks and hikes around Kirkby Malham

Yes, circular routes are very common in the area. They are a great way to experience the varied landscape of the Yorkshire Dales without retracing your steps. Many trails are designed to link key landmarks like Malham Cove, Gordale Scar, and Janet's Foss in a single loop starting from the village of Malham.

For a gentle walk that's great for families, the trail to Janet's Foss is an excellent choice. It's a relatively short and accessible path through a lovely woodland setting leading to a picturesque waterfall. The area at the base of Malham Cove is also fairly flat and offers impressive views of the cliff face without the strenuous climb.

Dogs are welcome on many trails, but it's important to be mindful of the landscape. The Yorkshire Dales is farming country with livestock often grazing in fields, so you'll need to keep your dog on a lead. The National Trust Malham Tarn Estate is a popular area for dog walkers, but be aware of ground-nesting birds and sheep, especially during lambing season (spring).

The area is famous for its waterfalls. The Janet's Foss – Gordale Scar Waterfall loop from Malham is a fantastic option that takes you to two distinct water features: the enchanting Janet's Foss in its woodland glade and the dramatic, powerful waterfall within the Gordale Scar gorge.

Yes, for those seeking a more strenuous day out, the Pikedaw Hill and Gordale Scar loop offers a significant challenge with over 430 meters of elevation gain. This route provides expansive views and a tougher climb than the more common valley-floor walks.

The weather in the Dales can change very quickly, so layering is key. Always bring a waterproof and windproof jacket, even on a sunny day. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good grip are essential, as paths can be rocky, uneven, and muddy. The limestone pavement on top of Malham Cove can be particularly slippery when wet.

The main starting point for most of the popular walks is the village of Malham. There is a large Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority car park there. It is a pay-and-display car park and can get very busy, especially on weekends and holidays, so arriving early is highly recommended.

Accessing the area by public transport can be challenging as services are infrequent and may not run daily, particularly outside of the main summer season. It is generally best to check local bus schedules from larger towns like Skipton in advance. For the most flexibility, arriving by car is recommended.

Yes, a significant section of the Pennine Way, one of the UK's most famous long-distance trails, runs directly through the Malhamdale landscape. You can walk a portion of it by hiking from Malham, past the Cove and Malham Tarn, experiencing a classic stretch of this iconic route.

The region is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 stars from over 2,100 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the spectacular geological formations like Malham Cove and Gordale Scar, as well as the well-maintained paths and classic Dales scenery of rolling hills and drystone walls.

There is a vast network of trails to explore. On komoot, you can find over 350 routes in the area, ranging from easy strolls to difficult, full-day treks. This includes over 120 easy-rated trails suitable for more casual walkers and families.

Many circular walks are designed to start and end in Malham village, which has pubs that are popular with walkers for a post-hike meal or drink. This allows you to complete a classic Dales walk and finish conveniently near a place for refreshments.