Ingleton Waterfalls Trail

A waterfall wonderland in the Dales

Tucked into the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail is a beautifully curated 4.5-mile (7km) loop that follows the River Twiss and River Doe through a landscape shaped by ice, rock and rushing water. From the moment you step onto the path, you’re surrounded by moss-draped oak woodland, deep limestone gorges and the constant sound of tumbling water. The trail is carefully designed to keep you close to the rivers, offering constantly changing views of cascades, pools and rocky amphitheatres, all within a Site of Special Scientific Interest recognised for its geology and ecology.

Waterfalls and wild scenery

The route passes eight named waterfalls, each with its own character. Pecca Falls tumbles over 30 metres in a series of steps into a deep, swirling pool, while Thornton Force – the largest on the River Twiss – plunges 14 metres over a broad limestone face in a powerful, thunderous display. Beezley Falls is a delicate, multi-tiered cascade framed by trees, and Rival Falls adds a quieter, intimate moment before the dramatic Baxenghyll Gorge, where a viewing platform lets you peer down into the churning waters below. Snow Falls, easy to miss if you’re not looking back, completes the sequence with a final, graceful drop.

Walking through time and rock

Beyond the waterfalls, the trail reveals the story of the Dales’ formation. Limestone pavements, exposed rock faces and ancient river terraces tell of glacial retreat and millennia of erosion. Numbered marker posts along the path correspond to a downloadable geology and ecology guide, explaining how the rivers carved these gorges and how rare plants and wildlife thrive in this protected environment. The path climbs onto open moorland with sweeping views over Kingsdale and Raven Ray, then descends back through woodland, offering a real sense of journey and immersion in the landscape.

Practicalities and atmosphere

The trail is well maintained with clear signage and a one-way system that keeps the flow of walkers smooth. It’s suitable for most walkers with a moderate level of fitness, though there are many steps, some steep sections and potentially muddy patches after rain. Facilities include toilets and a refreshment kiosk at Falls Park halfway around, plus picnic areas and benches to pause and soak in the views. The atmosphere is peaceful and family-friendly, with the sound of water, birdsong and the occasional excited chatter of children discovering a new cascade around each bend.