3 min read

Grimwith Reservoir Circular

Looking for an easy hike in Yorkshire to get some fresh air and picturesque views?

Grimwith Reservoir is a great place to start. It's a circular hike approx. 6.9km and should take you about 1.5 hours. There is an elevation gain of 295 ft, has parking on site and is located near Greenhow Hill in North Yorkshire.

As you loop around the reservoir you should find this to be a fairly easy hike but it is dirt pathways so make sure to bring appropriate clothing and footwear. You'll find the Yorkshire Dales Sailing Club not far from the car park and some nearby restaurants if you fancy a spot of lunch.

Why you'll enjoy this short hike:

For a beginner hiker or someone looking for a mid level walk, Grimwith Reservoir is a great place to visit. The views are stunning with good visibility all around the water. As you reach the higher points of the trail you can see quite far over the Yorkshire Dales. If you're looking for some stunning landscape photography make sure to get there as the sun is either rising or setting and you'll get some wonderful shots.

When to go:

With this hike being located in Yorkshire, bear in mind that weather conditions can shift depending on elevation and time of day. Keep an eye on the weather forecast as the area can get a bit muddy. Mid morning and early afternoon is the best time to go.

What to pack:

Comfortable Footwear: Wear sturdy, comfortable hiking shoes or boots with good traction.
Weather-Appropriate Clothing: Dress in layers suitable for the weather conditions, including a lightweight, breathable top, a waterproof jacket, and possibly a hat and gloves if it's chilly.
Backpack: Bring a small backpack to carry your essentials and keep your hands free during the hike.
Water: Carry an adequate amount of water to stay hydrated throughout the hike.
Snacks: Pack lightweight, energy-boosting snacks such as trail mix, granola bars, or fruit.
Navigation Tools: Bring a map of the trail or use a GPS device or smartphone app to navigate if necessary.
Sun Protection: Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun's UV rays, especially during sunny weather.
First Aid Kit: Carry a basic first aid kit with essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
Whistle: Bring a whistle for signalling in case of emergencies.
Phone: Carry a fully charged mobile phone for communication and emergency purposes. If you're going alone, ensure you have a signal or let someone know where you're going.
Camera or use your phone: Capture the scenic views and memorable moments along the trail.
Trash Bag: Pack a small trash bag to carry out any litter and leave no trace behind.
Personal Identification: Carry a form of personal identification in case of emergencies.
Optional: Trekking Poles: Depending on your preference, consider bringing trekking poles for added stability and support.

Final thoughts:

I really enjoyed this walk and it didn't take too long to get round. There's some local wildlife wandering about and you may see some sail boats on the water depending on the day. It's a beautiful location for budding photographers or if you just fancy getting some fresh air with a view.