Highlight • Summit
Ingleborough summit
Hiking
4.9
(518)
Running
5.0
(8)
Mountain biking
5.0
(7)
Cycling
5.0
(4)
Ingleborough is a complex massif. From the principal summit it throws out a ridge to the northeast, which widens into the high plateau of Simon Fell, its contours shaped like a fishtail when viewed from above. Limestone dominates the western side of the mountain, with many karst features, such as holes, pavements and caves.
A magnificent icon with staggering views of beautiful Ribblesdale
Walking routes to Ingleborough start from all points of the compass; you are spoilt for choice as to how to tackle this iconic peak. Ingleton, Chapel-le-Dale and Horton in Ribblesdale all make great bases, with Yorkshire’s famously friendly hospitality awaiting you in the many pubs and cafes.
You can even enjoy a journey on the celebrated Carlisle to Settle railway line, as it reaches its finest moment at Ribblehead Viaduct. Ribblehead station is a wonderful place from which to start a hike to Ingleborough. White steam rising from a locomotive on the awesome viaduct to the backdrop of the Dales is an evocative sight.
The broad summit plateau was once the site of an Iron Age hillfort, which was then adopted by the Romans. This is unsurprising, as it commands a wide reaching view across the Dales and beyond to Morecambe Bay and the distant mountains of south and eastern Lakeland. It is a stunning panorama.
Along with beautiful Pen-y-ghent and the higher whaleback of Whernside, Ingleborough is one of the Yorkshire Three Peaks, a classic hillwalking challenge. Winter walking here is also a challenge but rarely do conditions require mountaineering equipment.
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
November 9, 2018
Hiking
April 26, 2018
Hiking
December 13, 2019
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Ingleborough summit
4.7
(394)
5,418
hikers
40.6km
12:40
1,420m
1,420m
Embark on the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge, a demanding hike that covers 25.2 miles (40.6 km) through the stunning Yorkshire Dales National Park. You will experience diverse terrain, from rough and boggy sections to well-maintained paths, as you tackle steep ascents on iconic peaks like Pen-y-Ghent and Ingleborough. The route offers panoramic views across the Ribble Valley, and from Whernside Summit on a clear day, you might even glimpse Morecambe Bay and the Irish Sea, with the impressive Ribblehead Viaduct below.
Planning your visit requires careful consideration for this difficult route, which typically takes around 12 hours and 39 minutes to complete. The challenge is very popular, so expect significant foot traffic, especially during peak seasons. The peaks are exposed to strong winds and changeable weather, so always prepare thoroughly for all conditions. You can find parking and public transport options in villages such as Horton-in-Ribblesdale, a common starting point for many hikers.
This iconic challenge is a serious undertaking, attracting hikers who seek a demanding yet incredibly rewarding experience in the heart of the Dales. The route is known for its unique combination of natural beauty and physical exertion, making it a standout adventure in the region. It's a true test of endurance and spirit, offering a deep connection to the rugged landscape and a sense of accomplishment upon completion.
4.9
(140)
879
hikers
16.6km
05:06
560m
560m
Embark on a challenging hike around Ingleborough, starting from the charming village of Clapham. This difficult 10.3-mile (16.6 km) loop takes you through varied landscapes, from pleasant woodlands and the meandering Clapham Beck to the dramatic limestone gorge of Trow Gill. You will ascend a significant 1834 feet (559 metres) to the broad summit plateau, a journey that typically takes around 5 hours and 5 minutes to complete.
When planning your visit, remember that parking is available in Clapham, making it a convenient starting point for this popular route. The initial descent from Ingleborough's summit can be rough, especially if steps are wet, so consider bringing hiking poles for added stability. Always check local weather conditions before you set out, particularly for the exposed sections of the trail.
This route offers a unique opportunity to experience the geological wonders of the Yorkshire Dales. As you climb, you will encounter striking formations like Gaping Gill, where Fell Beck disappears into the earth. The panoramic views from Ingleborough's summit are a highlight, stretching across the Dales and, on clear days, even reaching the distant Lakeland Fells, showcasing the region's natural beauty.
4.7
(54)
264
hikers
15.1km
04:43
560m
560m
Embark on the Ingleborough from Clapham loop, a moderate hike covering 9.4 miles (15.1 km) with an elevation gain of 1841 feet (561 metres). This scenic route typically takes around 4 hours and 43 minutes to complete, offering a rewarding experience in the Yorkshire Dales. You'll begin on a flat path through the Ingleborough Estate Nature Trail, passing Clapham Beck and serene waterfalls. The terrain soon becomes more varied, leading you through the dramatic limestone gorge of Trow Gill, where you might encounter a short, easy scramble. As you ascend towards Ingleborough, the path turns rocky with stone steps, eventually opening up to the mountain's broad, flat summit plateau. The descent offers a mix of grassy trails and impressive limestone pavements, showcasing the diverse landscape of the Dales.
To plan your visit, be aware that the trail requires good fitness and sure-footedness, especially on the undulating and rocky sections. While the initial path is even, the ascent involves eroded sections and stone steps. Navigation on the summit plateau can be difficult in poor visibility, so carrying a compass is strongly recommended as paths may not be obvious. The limestone can also be slippery, particularly when wet, so appropriate footwear is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.
This route is celebrated as one of the best ascents of Ingleborough, the second-highest mountain in the Yorkshire Dales, and is a popular choice for those tackling the Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge. The trail is a geological marvel, showcasing diverse limestone formations like dramatic gorges, extensive pavements, and impressive scars. You'll also encounter historical elements, including the remnants of an Iron Age hill fort on the summit, adding a rich layer of context to your journey through this varied landscape.
Details
Informations
Elevation 720 m
Good to know
Family Friendly
yes
Wheelchair access
no
Dog Friendly
yes
Weather
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Saturday 15 August
16°C
8°C
46 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h
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