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Barden Moor from Embsay Reservoir Trail Running Route: 18km Southern Dales Loop

A scenic 18.3km trail running loop from Embsay Reservoir, climbing onto Barden Moor for open access moorland, reservoir views, Embsay Crag and Southern Yorkshire Dales scenery. The return leg from Cracoe War Memorial is some of the best fast and flowing terrain in the country. A nice technical downhill to finish. A must do route
18.3km

Distance

571m

Elevation Gain

2 to 3 hours running / 4 to 5.5 hours walking

Estimated Time

Difficulty

Distance Band

Route Map

Details
Barden Moor From Embsay Reservoir Long

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About this route

This Barden Moor trail running route starts at Embsay Reservoir and heads into the open Southern Dales above Skipton. The GPX is around 18km with roughly 570m of climbing, making it a solid half-day run with a wilder feel than its accessible start suggests.

The route mixes reservoir paths, moorland tracks, grassy trods and rougher open sections. It is ideal for runners who want open Dales views close to Skipton, but it still needs sensible kit and navigation.

Route Features

At a Glance

📍 Start:Embsay Reservoir, Embsay, North Yorkshire

Getting there

Start Point

Embsay Reservoir, Embsay, North Yorkshire
BD23 6PR

Parking

Start from Embsay Reservoir car park. Its a free car park, but spaces are limited and the area can be busy in good weather. Park considerately and do not block access roads or gates.

Public Transport

Public transport is limited at the reservoir itself. Embsay village is close to Skipton, with Skipton offering rail and bus connections. Check local bus options and allow for the uphill walk to the reservoir if arriving without a car.

Toilets

There are no reliable public toilets at Embsay Reservoir. Use facilities in Skipton before travelling or plan a post-run stop in Embsay or Skipton.

Nearest Town

Skipton

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What's underfoot

A mixed Southern Dales route starting with reservoir-side running before climbing onto rougher open moorland. Expect grass, boggy sections, faint trods, rocky patches and exposed open ground. Conditions can be wet underfoot even after dry spells. The leg from Cracoe War Memorial is moderately technical but lots of fun

Best Seasons

Spring, Summer, Autumn

Navigation Difficulty

Easy
Embsay Reservoir, Embsay, North Yorkshire

Weather Notes

Barden Moor is exposed and can feel much colder and windier than Embsay village or Skipton. Low cloud can make navigation harder, and wet weather quickly turns moorland sections boggy.

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 reservoir or stream water unless treated. There are no dependable water stops on the moorland section.

Shops Nearby

Limited village facilities in Embsay. Skipton is around 3 miles south and has supermarkets, cafes, pubs and outdoor supplies.

Post-Run Recommendation

Head back into Skipton for coffee, food or a pub stop after the run, or use local Embsay village options if open.

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

Carry waterproofs, warm layer, map, compass, GPX device, food and water. Barden Moor can be confusing in mist and is exposed in wind. Keep dogs under close control around livestock and nesting birds, and follow access land guidance.

🌦 Weather Notes

Barden Moor is exposed and can feel much colder and windier than Embsay village or Skipton. Low cloud can make navigation harder, and wet weather quickly turns moorland sections boggy.

Local knowledge

💡 Local Tip

This route works well as a quieter alternative to the busier Wharfedale routes. It is close to Skipton but feels remote quickly. Avoid starting late in poor weather because the moorland sections are slow and exposed.

🧭 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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