Trail Running Planet · Yorkshire Dales · Skipton and Craven
Skipton Explorer
It's the route to reach for when you want proper distance without a mountain attached, running out through genuinely pretty Dales-edge countryside that most visitors drive straight past on their way to the bigger fells.
Distance
28.5 km
Ascent
644 m
Descent
645 m
Max elevation
390 m
Route type
Loop
Est. time
3h 35m – 4h 55m
Grade
Very Hard
Navigation
straightforward
Parking
BD23 1LE
Dogs
Welcome
Best seasons
spring, summer, autumn, winter
About this route
A 28.5km loop through the Craven countryside around Skipton, mixing canal towpath, farmland and quiet lanes with 644m of gentle climbing - a solid mid-distance route without a single big hill.
Hazards & notes
Livestock and farm machinery on the working farmland sections - keep an eye out on the narrower lanes. Field paths can be greasy and soft after heavy rain.
Emergency
Call 999 or 112 → ask for Police → request Mountain Rescue. Register Emergency SMS: text "register" to 999.
Full route, GPX download & live conditions:
https://trailrunningplanet.com/routes/england/yorkshire-dales/skipton-and-craven/skipton-explorer
trailrunningplanet.com