Autumn Trails In The Dales You Need To Take This Year

If there is one thing our team at Stone House Hotel really know, it’s the Yorkshire Dales. Because our hotel is the perfect base for days out, we have years of experience offering our guests the best advice on where to spend their time with us.

In fact, if you look at a map and trace a circle from Skipton to Knaresborough, Richmond to Barnard Castle, Sedbergh to Horton in Ribblesdale, we are right in the middle; away from the crowds, but close enough to be connected.

So, if you are a lover of Yorkshire Dales hiking trails, gentle riverside ambles, dog-friendly walks beneath autumn trees, or scenic cycle paths, here’s a collection of our favourites for an unforgettable autumn adventure.

14 min read*

Table of Contents

• Walk from Hawes to Hardraw Force
• Malham Cove, Gordale Scar and Janet’s Foss
• Aysgarth Falls and River Ure Circular
• Bolton Abbey and The Strid Walk
• Muker to Keld Lane in Swaledale
• Ribblehead Viaduct and Whernside Trail
• Bolton Castle Woodland Walks
• Bike trails for autumn adventures near Hawes
• Planning your perfect Yorkshire Dales autumn walking break
• FAQs

Walk from Hawes to Hardraw Force

The Yorkshire Dale in autumn is famous for its vibrant woodland colour and gentle mists, and nowhere is this more charming than on the walk from Hawes to Hardraw Force. This moderate trail starts in Hawes, making it ideal if you’re staying with us at Stone House Hotel. Follow the footpath north out of town, skirting the River Ure past patchwork fields and drystone walls.

At Hardraw Force, you’ll find England’s highest above ground single-drop waterfall tucked into a dramatic wooded gorge, surrounded by a blaze of copper and gold in autumn. There’s a little café nearby and a warming fire at the Green Dragon pub if you want to extend your trip. On return, browse Hawes’ independent shops and cafes, or recharge at Stone House with an afternoon sweet treat and hot drink.

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Malham Cove, Gordale Scar and Janet’s Foss

For a day trip further afield, head south to the legendary limestone landscapes surrounding Malham Cove. The classic circular route here takes in the sheer white cliffs of Malham Cove, the extraordinary chasm of Gordale Scar, and the woodland waterfall at Janet’s Foss. In autumn, expect Malhamdale’s trees and hedges to glow amber while bracken turns to bronze, giving every photo a painterly quality.

The approach to the cove is easy and suitable for moderate walkers. If you’ve got the energy, climb the rock stairway for stunning valley views. This is a top choice for guests seeking Yorkshire Dales hiking trails that pack landscape drama and wildlife in a single outing.

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Aysgarth Falls and River Ure Circular

Aysgarth Falls, just a short drive from Stone House Hotel in Hawes, is a treat for both local nature lovers and autumn visitors. The River Ure tumbles through a series of stepped falls, framed by woodland that becomes burnished with every autumn week. The low-level circular route is suitable for all ages and makes for a gentle, rewarding walk with stunning views of the waterfalls throughout the year.

Park at the main visitor centre, then set off into the woods. Along the way, keep an eye out for kingfishers and dippers, which are often seen along the River Ure. The three waterfalls – Upper, Middle, and Lower – are each worth a pause, with plenty of picnic spots dotted around. Cafés and tearooms nearby ensure you can end on a warm note.

Find out more about Aysgarth Falls and River Ure Circular

Bolton Abbey and The Strid Walk

For a full day out (roughly a 90-minute drive) from Stone House, combining history, woodland, and riversides, ask our team about visiting Bolton Abbey and the famous stretch of river gorge known as The Strid. This much-loved walk meanders through Strid Wood, famous for some of the best autumn foliage in Wharfedale. Start at the awe-inspiring remains of Bolton Abbey, then follow well-made paths through woodland of beech, oak, and hazel – ideal for an autumn colour fix.

The Strid itself is a narrow, powerful section of the River Wharfe – fascinating for photographers and wonderfully dramatic when viewed up close. The surrounding trails offer options for both leisurely strolls and longer walks, with plenty of beautiful riverside scenery along the way. There are also picnic spots, an adventure playground, and reasonably priced parking, while nearby cafés provide a welcome place to relax after your walk.

Find out more about Bolton Abbey and The Strid Walk here

Muker to Keld Lane in Swaledale

Swaledale’s narrow lanes and flower-rich meadows are world-famous, and the route from Muker to Keld is perhaps the valley’s most pleasant for a gentle autumn walk. The path keeps you close to the River Swale, winding through village edges and along drystone-walled lanes. In September and October, bracken turns copper and the last purple of heather clings to the hills.

Because it’s a less strenuous walk, Muker to Keld is popular with all ages, from couples looking for a leisurely stroll to those enjoying a relaxed day out with family and friends. It makes for an easy half-day outing when you’re based at Stone House. Pause in Muker for homemade cakes or browse the art and craft shops before completing the circuit.

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Ribblehead Viaduct and Whernside Trail

If you’re after Yorkshire Dales hiking trails with big-sky drama, the Ribblehead Viaduct and Whernside Trail delivers. Starting at the extraordinary Victorian arches of the viaduct on the Settle – Carlisle line, this high-level walk loops north to the summit of Whernside, the tallest of the Yorkshire Three Peaks. Expect sweeping views blanketed in purple heather, golden grasses, and streaks of autumn sun in September and October.

This is a tougher hike, so a good choice for well-prepared walkers and visiting groups keen to tick off a Three Peaks experience (not for the faint-hearted!). The moorland is exposed; bring proper gear and a flask of tea from the hotel before heading out. On clear days, you’ll see for miles, and the landscape is at its most photogenic in the sharp light of autumn.

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Bolton Castle Woodland Walks

If you’re looking for a ramble with a bit of local drama, the woodland paths around Bolton Castle are a true delight in September and October. Start by exploring the castle’s medieval towers, then follow easy circuits through lower Wensleydale’s woodlands, where ancient oaks and beech trees shed golden leaves beside stone walls. Views across the valley are exceptional.

Bolton Castle combines historic appeal with family-friendly paths, so it’s an ideal half-day for mixed-age groups, or solo travellers. In autumn, the landscape feels timeless – look out for red squirrels and enjoy one of the best places for autumn colour in the whole Yorkshire Dales.

Find out more about Bolton Castle

Bike trails for autumn adventures near Hawes

While the region is world-famous for walking, the Dales’ bike trails let you cover even more ground in golden autumn light. Base yourself at Stone House Hotel for stress-free Yorkshire Dales bike adventures – our team can suggest routes to suit every ability, from steady family circuits to challenging hills for road cyclists.

Popular rides include the Swaledale circuit, quiet lanes from Hawes to Semerwater, and rugged bridleways looping out from Wensleydale. Whilst you’re staying at Stone House Hotel, we can provide secure bicycle storage, which makes it easy to plan a circular route for a morning or whole day. Autumn’s cooler temperatures and quieter roads make this one of the best seasons for seeing the Dales on two wheels. Ask at reception for route maps, packed lunches, and advice on local bike hire.

Planning your perfect Yorkshire Dales autumn walking break

At Stone House Hotel, it’s our pleasure to help you make the most of every season. Whether you want a group walking holiday, solo reset, or refreshing weekends between meetings, our team knows the very best Yorkshire Dales autumn trails and can help with route planning, guides, and dog-friendly recommendations. We’re here to give practical support so you can simply enjoy the magic of the Dales in autumn – arrive as a guest and leave as a local expert.