9.95 miles.

Explorer Map OL2, - Yorkshire Dales (South)

This walk takes place in a deservedly popular area.
In the summer, there will always be considerable numbers of people in the areas described. Therefore, if you want to be alone, choose a time of year when there will be few visitors.
The route is very easy to follow, being well marked at just about every stage.
Regarding Gordale Scar, it is possible to ascend the footpath directly up the Scar. The footpath runs beside a waterfall. However, this footpath is not for anybody who is not happy with heights, and in winter, - or when the waterfall is running full, can become slippery and dangerous.
To avoid the direct ascent of the Scar there is a parrallel footpath. This footpath invloves a fairly steep climb up the hillside, but the walker is rewarded with some really stectacular views.

For a Memory Map overlay of the walk described, please select the above link.
(Overlay made with Version 5 of Memory Map)

Start from the Yorkshire Dales car park at SD899 627 (fee to pay).
From the car park, head North through Malham for a short distance, and where the road bridge crosses the Malham Beck cross the beack and then immediately turn right. Follow the signposted footpath to janet's Foss waterfall. This footpath basically follows the Gordale Beck.
From Janet's Foss, walk up to the road and turn right over Gordale Bridge (where the refreshment caravan is located).
Just past the bridge, take the signposted path to Gordale Scar.
The Scar lies about 1/2 mile up the valley and is well worth viewing in its own right.
You may continue by ascending the footpath up the Scar, - but see the note above.
Alternatively, return to Gordale Bridge, and take the signposted footpath West North West to Malham Cove. After about 100 yards there is a gap in the wall on your right which takes you on to a very obvious footpath that ascends quite steeply to New Close Knotts. This footpath is not shown on the map, but is quite clear to see in practice.
The footpath affords a spectacular view down into Gordale Scar.
Both footpaths (the direct route and the "scenic route") meet below New Close Knotts and then continue North West to Street Gate (SD9051 6565).
Continue North along the farm track until you come to Great Close Plantation at SD9043 6634. Here head North West along the grassy track to Malham Tarn House.
Once at Malham Tarn House, retrace your steps to now follow the Pennine Way South.
This is very well signposted and you will be hard pressed NOT to be able to follow the path to Malham Cove.
There are one or two sections which involve descent over limestone steps, which may need a bit of care.
From Malham Cove, follow the (again) well marked and signposted path back to Malham.
Descending from Malham Cove involves a fairly steep climb down a number of limestone steps.