What Is the Highest Peak in the Yorkshire Dales?
Whernside is the highest peak in the Yorkshire Dales. Its summit stands at 736 metres, or 2,415 feet, above sea level.
It is one of the famous Yorkshire Three Peaks, along with Ingleborough and Pen-y-ghent. However, these are not the only high peaks in the National Park. The Yorkshire Dales are home to many hills and walks that rise above 600 metres.
Below, we look at five of the highest peaks in the Yorkshire Dales. We also cover their height, walking distance, duration and difficulty.
Highest Peaks in the Yorkshire Dales
The walk details below are based on popular routes. Distance and duration may change depending on where you start.
| Peak | Height | Typical walk length | Duration | Difficulty |
| Whernside | 736m | 7.5–8 miles | 4–5 hours | Moderate |
| Ingleborough | 724m | Around 10 miles | 5–6 hours | Hard |
| Great Shunner Fell | 716m | Around 10 miles | 4–5 hours | Moderate to hard |
| High Seat | 709m | 6–8 miles | 4–5 hours | Hard |
| Wild Boar Fell | 708m | 8–10 miles | 5–6 hours | Hard |
1. Whernside – 736 Metres
Whernside is the highest mountain in the Yorkshire Dales. It is also the highest point in the ceremonial county of North Yorkshire.
The most popular route begins near Ribblehead Viaduct. From here, walkers follow a steady path past the railway before climbing onto the broad summit ridge. On a clear day, you may see the Lake District, Howgills and Morecambe Bay.
The classic route is about 7.5 to 8 miles long and takes around four to five hours. Most of the climb is steady, but the ground can be wet and rough. The descent is also steep in places.
Despite its height, Whernside is often seen as a moderate mountain walk. You will still need suitable clothing, walking boots and basic navigation skills. The Yorkshire Dales National Park provides details of the 7.5-mile route from Ribblehead.
2. Ingleborough – 724 Metres
Ingleborough is the second-highest peak in the Yorkshire Dales. Its wide, flat summit makes it one of the easiest mountains in the area to spot.
One of the best routes starts in Clapham. This walk passes Ingleborough Cave, Trow Gill and Gaping Gill before climbing towards the summit.
The full route is around 10 miles and usually takes five to six hours. There are steep and rocky sections near the top. Cloud can also make it hard to find the correct path across the summit plateau.
This is a hard walk due to its length, height gain and rough ground. However, it offers some of the finest limestone scenery in the Dales. The National Park lists the Clapham route at approximately 17km.
3. Great Shunner Fell – 716 Metres
Great Shunner Fell is the third-highest peak in the Yorkshire Dales. It sits between Wensleydale and Swaledale.
A popular route starts in Hardraw and follows the Pennine Way to the summit. The path is clear for much of the walk, although the ground can become very wet and boggy.
An out-and-back walk is around 10 miles long and takes about four to five hours. The climb is long rather than very steep. This makes it a moderate walk in good weather. Poor visibility and soft ground can make it much harder.
4. High Seat – 709 Metres
High Seat rises above the quiet Mallerstang Valley. It is less well known than Whernside or Ingleborough, which makes it a good choice for walkers seeking a quieter day.
Routes from Outhgill are often between six and eight miles long. Most take around four to five hours.
High Seat is a hard walk. Paths can be faint, while the high ground is open and boggy. Strong navigation skills are useful when cloud covers the ridge.
5. Wild Boar Fell – 708 Metres
Wild Boar Fell is only one metre lower than High Seat. Its steep slopes and wide summit give it a bold shape above Mallerstang.
A typical circular walk is between eight and ten miles long. Allow around five to six hours, depending on the route and conditions.
The climb is steep, and some sections cross rough or wet ground. This makes Wild Boar Fell a hard walk. However, the views from the summit and nearby limestone outcrops are well worth the effort.
Which Yorkshire Dales Peak Should You Walk First?
Whernside is a good first choice if you have some hillwalking experience. Its main route follows a clear path and avoids difficult scrambling.
Ingleborough offers more varied scenery but involves a longer and harder day. Great Shunner Fell is ideal for a quieter walk, while High Seat and Wild Boar Fell suit walkers with stronger navigation skills.
Whichever peak you choose, check the forecast and carry a map, food, water and spare clothing. Conditions can change quickly, even during summer.