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Barden Moor from Embsay Reservoir Short Trail Running Route: 10km Moorland Loop

A short but punchy 10.1km circular trail run from Embsay Reservoir onto Barden Moor, with around 348m of climbing, open moorland tracks, reservoir views and a high point near 431m.
10.1km

Distance

348m

Elevation Gain

75 to 110 minutes running / 2.5 to 3.5 hours walking

Estimated Time

Difficulty

Distance Band

Route Map

No map available for this route.

Get this route

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About this route

This Barden Moor from Embsay Reservoir short route is a compact moorland trail run on the edge of Skipton and the Yorkshire Dales. The GPX measures approximately 10.1km with around 348m of ascent, so it packs a lot of climbing into a relatively short distance.

Starting by Embsay Reservoir, the route heads onto the open ground of Barden Moor, combining reservoir views, rougher moorland running and stony tracks. It is a good option when you want a shorter hill session with proper Dales feel, but it still needs sensible kit and navigation in poor weather.

Route Features

At a Glance

📍 Start:Embsay Reservoir, Embsay, near Skipton

Getting there

Start Point

Embsay Reservoir, Embsay, near Skipton
BD23 6PR

Parking

The GPX start point is at Embsay Reservoir, where there is visitor parking near the reservoir. Spaces are limited and the area can be busy at weekends, so arrive early and park considerately.

Public Transport

Embsay is close to Skipton. Public transport options are stronger into Skipton, with onward local bus/taxi/walk options to Embsay depending on timetable and day. Check current bus times before travelling.

Toilets

There are no reliable public toilet facilities at Embsay Reservoir. Use facilities in Skipton before travelling, or check local Embsay options before setting off.

Nearest Town

Skipton

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What's underfoot

A short but hilly Barden Moor route with a reservoir start, rough moorland tracks, stony paths and open ground. The climb comes early and the exposed upper section can be wet, windy and slower than the distance suggests.

Best Seasons

All year

Navigation Difficulty

Easy
Embsay Reservoir, Embsay, near Skipton

Weather Notes

The route is short but exposed on Barden Moor. Wind, rain and low cloud can make it feel more serious, and the moor can be wet underfoot even after dry spells.

Recommended Equipment

Trail shoes are strongly recommended for this route. Here’s what we’d suggest.

Recommended kit for this route

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Before, during & after

Water

Carry your own water. Do not rely on water at the reservoir or on the moor, and treat any natural water source before drinking.

Shops Nearby

Embsay has limited village facilities. Skipton has supermarkets, cafes, bakeries and outdoor shops a short drive away.

Post-Run Recommendation

Finish with a drink or food in Embsay, or head back into Skipton for a wider choice of cafes and pubs.

How to run it

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Follow the well-signed footpath from the car park.
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Before you go

⚠ Safety Notes

Although short, this route goes onto exposed moorland. Carry waterproofs, warm layers and navigation, especially outside summer. Take care around reservoir edges, wet stone and boggy ground. Respect livestock, estate signage and seasonal access restrictions.

🌦 Weather Notes

The route is short but exposed on Barden Moor. Wind, rain and low cloud can make it feel more serious, and the moor can be wet underfoot even after dry spells.

Local knowledge

💡 Local Tip

Good for a shorter hill session from Skipton, but do not underestimate it in poor weather. The reservoir area is popular, so run early for easier parking and quieter trails.

🧭 Navigation Difficulty

Easy

Frequently Asked Questions

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More routes nearby

Trail Art · Monetisation · Nice to have

Trail Art

Route Trail Poster

A hand-illustrated trail map poster of this route — perfect for your home or as a gift for a fellow runner. Printed on 300gsm card.

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