Hiking Janet's Foss, Gordale Scar, Malham Tarn, and Malham Cove in the Yorkshire Dales
Starting in the village of Malham, this hike takes you along a circlular 17km route ending at the famous Malham Cove which featured as a filming location for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. Located in the Yorkshire Dales, you'll visit Janet's Foss waterfall, Gordale Scar, walk round Malham Tarn, before ending at Malham Cove.
Trail Overview
Starting Point: Malham Village, North Yorkshire
Distance: 16.6 km (10.3 miles)
Duration: Approx. 5 hours
Difficulty: Difficult
Terrain: Varied - includes slippery paths, rocky sections, and steep inclines
The Route
1. Janet's Foss
Beginning in Malham, following the well-marked path towards Janet's Foss, this enchanting little waterfall, nestled in a woodland glade, is said to be home to Janet, the queen of the local fairies. The moss-covered rocks and the gentle cascade create a magical atmosphere.
2. Gordale Scar
Leaving Janet's Foss behind, we continue to the awe-inspiring Gordale Scar. This hidden gorge, with its towering limestone cliffs leads up to a small waterfall and stream. There's plenty of large rocks about where you can sit for a short rest and a snack.
3. Malham Tarn
The route then leads you back out of Gordale Scar and up to the top of the hills. As you reach Malham Tarn you'll notice that the landscape feels calm and serene. The surrounding area is rich in wildlife and you'll pass some houses and cottages along the way. Look out for the woodland animal carvings en route.
4. Malham Cove
The final section of this hike brings us to the famous Malham Cove. This curved limestone cliff stands at 80 meters high and offers panoramic views of the surrounding dales. The limestone rocks at the top are a unique geological feature, but be warned - it can be treacherous when wet. If you choose to do this hike in reverse, be aware that you'll have a lot of steps to climb to get to the top of Malham Cove right from the start versus heading down the steps at the end.
Preparing for the Hike
Given the difficulty of this hike, proper preparation is crucial:
Wear sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support
Bring plenty of water and high-energy snacks
Pack waterproof clothing - Yorkshire weather can be unpredictable
Download the map to your phone or bring a map and compass
Bring a fully charged mobile phone and maybe a portable battery pack
Safety Considerations
While this hike offers incredible views and experiences, it's important to prioritize safety:
Check weather forecasts before setting out
Inform someone of your hiking plans
Stay on marked paths, especially in challenging areas
Be prepared to turn back if conditions become unsafe
Parking
You can pay for parking at the National Park Visitor Centre in Malham where you will find toilet facilities, electric car charging and information. Make sure to check their opening times before going.
Conclusion
The circular route from Malham, taking in Janet's Foss, Gordale Scar, Malham Tarn, and Malham Cove, is a challenging but immensely rewarding hike. It showcases some of the most spectacular scenery the Yorkshire Dales has to offer, from serene waterfalls to dramatic limestone formations. While the terrain can be difficult and the path demanding, the stunning views and sense of accomplishment make every step worthwhile.
Download file for GPS
Malham Cove Hiking Route
Comments