Whernside Hike Guide – Yorkshire's Highest Peak (736m)
Kate- May 1
- 3 min read
Key Information for Hiking Whernside
Distance: Approx. 8 miles (13 km) circular
Time Required: 4–5 hours
Elevation Gain: ~500 metres
Difficulty: Moderate
Facilities: Limited (Station Inn only); no public toilets
Best For: Scenic views, historical landmarks, and varied terrain
Weather Note: Conditions on the summit can be harsh, especially in winter. Be sure to bring warm layers, waterproofs, and suitable footwear.
Starting point: Ribblehead Viaduct, Postcode: LA6 3AU
If you're seeking a scenic and moderately challenging hike through the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, Whernside offers an exceptional experience. At 736 metres, it is the tallest of the Yorkshire Three Peaks. It provides a mix of rugged beauty, panoramic views, and historical landmarks, making it a memorable route for both casual and seasoned hikers.
Getting There and Facilities
The hike begins at Ribblehead Viaduct, a striking 19th-century railway structure with 24 massive stone arches reaching 32 metres high. The viaduct is a landmark of industrial heritage and a dramatic starting point for the trail. Reportedly, the Midland Railway had to extend the nearby graveyard due to the high number of deaths during its construction.
Parking is generally available off-road near the viaduct (postcode: LA6 3AU) and is usually sufficient, even during busier seasons. The nearby Station Inn pub is popular among walkers; it serves food and permits overnight camping for those purchasing a meal. Be aware that there are no public toilets at the trailhead.
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Hiking Whernside - Overview and Directions
Starting the Walk: From the parking area, head toward the viaduct and follow the wide gravel track that runs parallel to the railway line. You’ll pass close to the impressive arches of the viaduct and then walk alongside the line for some time.
Passing the Old Station House: You’ll come across a charming abandoned station house not long into the walk. It’s a picturesque reminder of the area’s rail heritage and offers a good photo opportunity.
Force Gill Detour (Optional): Continue along the path until you see a small sign or visible trail leading to Force Gill, a lovely secluded waterfall. While not part of the main route, it's a short and worthwhile detour down a narrow path for those who wish to explore the water feature.
Beginning the Ascent: Back on the main route, the path starts to climb steadily as it joins the Dales Highway. This section is generally well-defined and maintained. About halfway up the slope, there’s an optional detour to visit Whernside Tarns, a peaceful spot ideal for a short rest or snack.
The top of Whernside Final Climb and Summit Ridge: The trail becomes steeper after the tarns. As you continue climbing, the views open up dramatically. Upon reaching the summit ridge, you’ll turn south and follow a clear path toward the top of Whernside. A dry stone wall runs alongside this section, offering some protection from the wind. To the east, you’ll see the rolling Howgill Fells, and on a clear day, views stretch as far as the Lake District. A cairn marks the summit, and there is also a gap in the wall where you can view the western landscape. This is a popular lunch spot, weather permitting.
Descent via the Pennine Journey Trail: After the summit, continue heading south along the ridge, now following the Pennine Journey Trail. You’ll soon reach a well-built stepped path that begins the descent. This section is quite steep and treacherous in icy or wet conditions, so caution is advised.
Approaching the Farm: Once you reach the valley floor, the trail guides you toward a working farm. Follow the designated footpaths through the fields.
Returning to the Viaduct: After passing the farm, follow the route northeast, which gradually loops back to the Ribblehead Viaduct. You’ll complete your circuit at the original parking area.
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If you haven’t already, consider downloading the Ordnance Survey App. It lets you import GPX routes directly and mirrors the paper maps you should always carry as a backup. I use this app to plan all my hikes, and it’s an essential tool for navigating the great outdoors.
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