SD9958 : Looking south east from the Obelisk, Upper Barden Reservoir centre

Cracoe Fell

508m Elevation
310m Prominence
England Country
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SD9958 : Looking south east from the Obelisk, Upper Barden Reservoir centre

Joe Regan Photo source

Overview

Cracoe Fell

Nestled in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales, Cracoe Fell stands proudly at 344 meters, offering a delightful escape for hikers and nature enthusiasts alike. Despite its modest height, the fell presents a tapestry of stunning vistas and engaging terrain.

Geology

Cracoe Fell is primarily carved from Carboniferous limestone, which not only shapes the rugged features of the landscape but also supports a vibrant ecosystem. The limestone gives way to fascinating geological formations that tell the story of ancient marine environments.

Routes

A popular route from Cracoe Village leads you to the summit. The path is well-marked and easy to follow, suitable for moderately experienced hikers. This 5.0 km trek can be completed in roughly 2 hours, depending on your penchant for dawdling in the beauty of nature. Don't forget to stop for some snaps, as the views are simply splendid!

Summit Features and Terrain

At the summit, you’ll be greeted by a sturdy stone cairn along with a trig point, perfect for post-hike selfies. The terrain is a mix of rocky patches and grassy slopes, which can be a bit slippery after rainfall. Just remember, when in doubt, stick to the rock!

Views

The summit rewards your efforts with breathtaking panoramas of Wharfedale and Airedale valleys. On a clear day, the distant peaks of the central Yorkshire Dales can be spotted like old friends waving from afar. The best time to absorb the views? Spring and autumn are particularly gorgeous, making these seasons the cherry on top of your hiking cake.

Hazards

While the route is generally safe, it's wise to prepare for Scotland-type weather—ever-changing and sometimes cheeky! Muddy pathways can emerge as tricksters, so wear suitable footwear and tread wisely.

Access and Facilities

Cracoe is conveniently located with decent parking, although it's best to check local restrictions. If you're relying on public transport, the local buses connect you with Skipton and Grassington admirably well.

And for those needing an energy boost post-hike, Cracoe boasts a charming pub, while Skipton offers various cafes and shops, ensuring you can refuel before heading home or delving further into the Dales.

Conclusion

Cracoe Fell may not be the highest peak in Yorkshire, but it offers an abundance of beauty, wildlife, and hiking pleasure. So lace up your boots, grab your camera, and enjoy the great outdoors that this delightful fell has to offer!

Explore routes near Cracoe Fell

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Skipton to Gargrave Canal Walk

16.5 km ~4h 45m Moderate

View route

Bolton Abbey: Strid Wood and Barden Bridge Circuit

7.7 km ~2h 30m Moderate

View route

Malham Landscape Trail: Janet's Foss, Gordale Scar, and Malham Cove

8.1 km ~2h 30m Moderate

View route

Silsden to Kildwick Canal Walk

7.7 km ~2h Easy

View route

Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Cracoe Village to Summit

A popular ascent starting from the picturesque village of Cracoe, offering a well-defined path with stunning views.

5 km ~2 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Dodd Dewey

Elevation

508m

1,666 ft

Prominence

310m

Coordinates

54.0255, -2.0120

SD993588

OS Map

103

Explorer: OL2S

At the Summit

The summit features a small stone cairn and a modest trig point, providing a great photo opportunity and a sense of accomplishment.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky with sections of grassy slopes and some patches of heather providing excellent traction but requiring careful footing in steep areas.

Cracoe Fell primarily consists of Carboniferous limestone, making it notable for its distinctive rocky outcrops and unique habitats. The underlying limestone contributes to a variety of soil types, which in turn supports diverse vegetation.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, hikers can enjoy panoramas of the surrounding Dales, including the impressive valleys of Wharfedale and Airedale, as well as the distant peaks of the central Yorkshire Dales.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Cracoe' is thought to derive from the Old Norse 'kráka', meaning 'crow', indicating a connection to local wildlife or the landscape.

Historical Significance

Cracoe Fell is part of the historic Yorkshire Dales, steeped in agriculture and cultural heritage, with nearby remnants of ancient settlements and farming practices.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is parking available in the village of Cracoe or along nearby roads, but be mindful of local restrictions.

Public Transport

Regular bus services connect Skipton and Grassington, making it quite handy for public transport users.

Nearby Facilities

There are no facilities directly on the fell, but Cracoe has a friendly pub and nearby Skipton offers cafes, toilets, and shops.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Keep an eye out for sudden weather changes; Yorkshire weather can be as unpredictable as a cat on a hot tin roof. Muddy paths can also pose a challenge after rain.

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Cracoe Fell?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Cracoe Fell through the maps

Are there other walkers around Cracoe Fell?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Cracoe Fell search or of course create your own walk for Cracoe Fell

Can I organise a walk to Cracoe Fell?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Cracoe Fell.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Cracoe Fell?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Cracoe Fell here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

Cracoe Fell location map

Grid reference: SD993588

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.

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