The paths and trails network

Within the National Park, there are 1,458km of footpaths, 625km of bridleways and 37km of byways open to all traffic.

This extensive network of public rights of way is one of the primary assets of the Yorkshire Dales National Park area.

It is used by the majority of visitors and we develop and manage this sustainable network of routes to enable sympathetic use and enjoyment of the National Park.

Where you can go

Public rights of way, excluding the road network, fall into four categories: footpaths, bridleways, restricted byways and byways open to all traffic.

Footpaths

Footpaths are for use on foot only. There is no right of way for horse riders or cyclists.

Bridleways

These are for use on foot, on a horse or on a pedal cycle, but not in a motor vehicle, in a horse and cart, or on a motorcycle.

Restricted byways

A restricted byway is for use on foot, on a horse or pedal cycle, or by horse drawn vehicle. They are not for use by motor vehicle.

Byways

A byway open to all traffic is available for any mode of transport - on foot, on a horse, on a pedal cycle or motorcycle, or in a motor or horse-drawn vehicle. However, they are mainly for use as footpaths or bridleways and are usually unsurfaced and often not suitable for motor vehicles.

In addition to these paths, access is also available in a few other situations, as detailed below.

Open Access

For information about Open Access land designated under the Countryside and Rights of Way (CRoW) Act 2000, please visit the Open Access section of our website.

Permissive paths

Permissive paths are where a landowner allows the public access over private property with permission. There is no statutory legal right to use these routes. There may be a charge for use of some of these paths in the National Park, for example, the Ingleton Waterfalls Walk, the route through the grounds of Ingleborough estate at Clapham, and the path to Hardraw Force.

Temporary closure of rights of way

There are occasions when a path may need to be closed for a period, for example to allow restoration works, or for reasons of public safety. These temporary closures are advertised in the local press for the area of the closure and they are listed on the current closures section of this website. The period of closure and the alternative routes will be indicated by site notices and maps.

Help or advice on any of these matters may be obtained from the Authority's Definitive Map Team. If you need to report a problem or issue relating to the condition of a public right of way, please contact the appropriate Area Ranger. Visit the Ranger Service page for more information.

Contact details

Definitive Map Team

Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority
Colvend
Grassington
Skipton
North Yorkshire
BD23 5LB

0300 456 0030

info@yorkshiredales.org.uk