Barden Moor from Embsay Reservoir (Short)
Open moor with big skies and a reservoir to frame the start. Compact enough for a summer evening run — good tracks throughout.
Effort: Moderate distance, manageable climb
Underfoot: Some uneven or off-path ground
E2·T2 — how we grade routesOpen moor with big skies and a reservoir to frame the start. Compact enough for a summer evening run — good tracks throughout.
A compact moorland circuit above Skipton exploring the western edge of Barden Moor, starting from Embsay Reservoir. Good tracks, wide views, and minimal climbing.
The route
From the car park at Embsay Reservoir dam, head east along the reservoir edge before climbing onto the open moorland of Barden Moor. Good tracks lead across the high ground with views south to Airedale before looping back to the reservoir.
Notes
This is the shorter version of the Barden Moor circuit. The longer route continues east and drops to Barden Bridge on the Wharfe.
Boggy ground on moorland sections after heavy rain. Grouse shooting area — check for seasonal closures August to December.
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
More routes in Yorkshire Dales
EASY
VERY HARD
MODERATE