Whernside from Ribblehead
A long exposed ridge walk with the Ribblehead Viaduct growing smaller behind you and the full sweep of the Dales ahead.
Effort: Moderate distance, manageable climb
Underfoot: Open fell or rough terrain
E2·T3 — how we grade routesA long exposed ridge walk with the Ribblehead Viaduct growing smaller behind you and the full sweep of the Dales ahead.
The highest summit in the Yorkshire Dales at 736m, approached from Ribblehead Viaduct with the iconic railway arches as a backdrop throughout.
The route
Starting at the Ribblehead car park with its famous viaduct views, the route follows the track alongside the railway before climbing onto the south ridge of Whernside. The ridge narrows and becomes increasingly dramatic as you gain height.
The ridge
The summit ridge is one of the finest in the Dales — narrow, airy, and with a sharp drop to the east into Dentdale. The summit itself is marked by a trig point and a stone wall you can shelter behind.
The descent
The return drops steeply to the west before traversing below the crags back to the start. Total circuit is around 15km with 500m of ascent.
The summit ridge can be icy in winter. Very exposed in strong winds. The path east of the summit has eroded — care needed on the steep descent.
Summits on this route
Safety on this route
- No signal? Text 999 — pre-register first: text register to 999
- Tell someone your route and expected return time before you head out
Common questions
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