Malham Tarn and Fountains Fell

Starting from Watersinks car park on Malham Moor, this 18.3km circuit follows the Pennine Way north past Malham Tarn, a glacially carved lake sitting at 377 metres and one of only a handful of upland marl lakes in Europe. The route continues via Tennant Gill Farm before the long, steady pull to the summit of Fountains Fell at 668 metres, where the views extend across the Three Peaks country and into the Forest of Bowland. The return follows the moorland edge via Knowe Fell and the unfenced high road. This is big, open, remote walking with a genuine sense of isolation once you leave the tarn behind.

This demanding dog friendly walk requires a fit, experienced dog and a full day's commitment. The high moorland carries the dry-sweet scent of heather, damp sphagnum and the cold mineral smell of limestone beneath peat. Dogs must be kept on leads throughout, as open fell sheep graze from the tarn onwards, and ground-nesting birds are vulnerable between March and late July. There is no reliable water source on the later stages of the route beyond the tarn, so carry more than you think you need. The terrain is rough and exposed, with significant wind on the Fountains Fell ascent. Not suitable for older dogs or those with joint issues. A serious hill day in one of the Dales' quieter corners.