Fountains Fell
A rugged Yorkshire Dales peak offering expansive views, unique karst landscapes, and sections of the Pennine Way.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best chance for clear views
Fountains Fell
Best Time
Best chance for clear views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A rugged Yorkshire Dales peak offering expansive views, unique karst landscapes, and sections of the Pennine Way.
"Stunning views and peaceful solitude make Fountains Fell a rewarding, albeit weather-dependent, Yorkshire Dales adventure."
Check the Weather Forecast
Conditions change rapidly. Always check before you go and be prepared for rain or hail, even in summer! :cloudwithrain:
Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
The terrain can be boggy and uneven. Good grip is essential for a safe and comfortable trek. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fountains Fell Summit
Summit
Reach the top for panoramic views of the Yorkshire Dales, including Pen-y-Ghent and Ingleborough.
Fountains Fell Tarn
Near the summit
A peaceful spot offering serene reflections and a sense of solitude amidst the fells.
Pennine Way Section
Across the fell
Hike a segment of this iconic long-distance trail, enjoying well-defined paths and expansive scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Weather Preparedness is Key
Timing Your Visit for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check the Weather Forecast
Conditions change rapidly. Always check before you go and be prepared for rain or hail, even in summer! :cloudwithrain:
Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
The terrain can be boggy and uneven. Good grip is essential for a safe and comfortable trek. :athletic_shoe:
Navigate with Care
Visibility can drop suddenly. Carry a map and compass, or use a reliable GPS device. :compass:
Respect the Environment
Be aware of old mine shafts, especially in winter. Stick to marked paths to stay safe. :warning:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check the Weather Forecast
Conditions change rapidly. Always check before you go and be prepared for rain or hail, even in summer! :cloudwithrain:
Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
The terrain can be boggy and uneven. Good grip is essential for a safe and comfortable trek. :athletic_shoe:
Navigate with Care
Visibility can drop suddenly. Carry a map and compass, or use a reliable GPS device. :compass:
Respect the Environment
Be aware of old mine shafts, especially in winter. Stick to marked paths to stay safe. :warning:
Enjoy the Solitude
Fountains Fell can be surprisingly peaceful, offering a great escape. :sparkles:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Fountains Fell for its stunning panoramic views and sense of solitude, making it a rewarding hike for many. However, the unpredictable weather and potentially challenging terrain, especially in winter, require careful preparation and experience.
"The penultimate Dales hike. This was a 15 kilometre hike from Dale Head up around Darnbrook Fell with its quirky trig point and then across to Fountains Fell with its South Top neighbour. There were lovely views of Pen y Ghent all the way around, and it wasn’t a bad hike. I can’t believe I was caught in a hailstone shower in June - twice?"
david howells
"Main path over Fountains Fell is part of Pennine Way. It's a distinct trod. The path splits at the top to get to the cairn. Wonderful views on a good day of Pendle and also across to Penyghent and Ingleborough. Not advised to attempt in poor weather unless experienced in the fells."
Di “Boghopper”
"Cold winter walk up Fountains and Darnbrook Fell. No views on Fountains but the Sun came out on the way up Darnbrook. Cracking walk."
Woodzilla Jonahsaurus
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fountains Fell is accessible from various starting points in the Yorkshire Dales. Popular trailheads include Malham, Dale Head, and Ribblehead. Driving is common, with parking available at designated spots. Public transport options are limited, so check local bus routes if not driving.
Many hikers start from Malham, following the Pennine Way. Others begin near Dale Head for a route that includes Darnbrook Fell. The choice depends on your desired route and difficulty.
While parts of the Pennine Way are walkable, Fountains Fell is generally better suited for hiking and trail running due to the terrain and potential for boggy conditions. 
Yes, Fountains Fell is known for its caves, including Yordas Cave, which is a popular short walk with a waterfall inside.
Roads leading to Fountains Fell can be narrow and winding. In winter, they may be affected by snow or ice, so drive cautiously.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Fountains Fell is part of the Yorkshire Dales National Park and is freely accessible for hiking and exploration. There are no admission fees.
Fountains Fell is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
Parking is available at various points near the trailheads, such as Malham or Dale Head. These can get busy, especially on weekends.
There are very limited facilities directly on Fountains Fell. Basic amenities like toilets and cafes can be found in nearby villages like Malham or Hawes.
Wild camping is generally discouraged in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. It's best to use designated campsites in nearby villages.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Many hikers recommend following sections of the Pennine Way for a clear path. Routes vary in length and difficulty, with options for shorter loops or longer treks incorporating nearby peaks.
While some routes are manageable, Fountains Fell can be challenging, especially in poor weather or winter conditions. Beginners should stick to well-marked paths and be prepared for varied terrain.
On a clear day, you'll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the Yorkshire Dales, including iconic peaks like Pen-y-Ghent and Ingleborough.
Be aware of old mine shafts, particularly in winter conditions. The weather can change rapidly, leading to poor visibility and potentially hazardous conditions.
While Fountains Fell Tarn is beautiful, wild swimming is not officially recommended due to water quality and safety concerns.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the expansive landscape views from the summit, the serene Fountains Fell Tarn, and the dramatic skies, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Early mornings for sunrise and late afternoons for golden hour offer beautiful light. Overcast days can also create dramatic, moody shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, and a telephoto can capture distant peaks. A sturdy tripod is useful for low light. Don't forget a waterproof camera bag! :camerawithflash:
The summit cairn offers a prime spot. The area around Fountains Fell Tarn also provides reflective opportunities.
Drone usage may be restricted in national parks. Always check local regulations and guidelines before flying a drone. :drone:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider a visit during the summer months when daylight hours are longer and the weather is generally more favorable. While the summit views are spectacular, focus on enjoying the journey and the unique landscape. Keep a close eye on children, especially near any uneven terrain or potential hazards like old mine shafts.
🚶♀️ Solo Hikers & Trail Runners
For trail runners, the ascents and descents, combined with the expansive views, make for an exhilarating run. However, navigation skills are paramount, especially in adverse weather conditions where visibility can be severely reduced. Always inform someone of your planned route and expected return time.
📸 Photographers
Be prepared for changing weather, as dramatic skies can add significant mood to your photographs. A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the vastness of the landscape, while a telephoto lens can be used to isolate distant peaks. Remember to protect your gear from the elements, as rain and wind are common.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking Fountains Fell: Routes and Challenges
It's crucial to be prepared for the unpredictable weather of the Yorkshire Dales. Even in summer, you can encounter hailstone showers and strong winds. Sturdy hiking boots are essential, and carrying waterproofs is non-negotiable. For navigation, a map and compass or a reliable GPS device are highly recommended, as visibility can drop significantly, making it easy to lose your bearings.
For those seeking a more adventurous experience, Fountains Fell is also a popular spot for trail running. The varied terrain and challenging ascents provide an excellent workout. However, it's important to note that the presence of old mine shafts on and around the fell requires extra caution, particularly during winter months when they can be obscured by snow.
The Natural Beauty of Fountains Fell
The surrounding landscape provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Yorkshire Dales, with iconic peaks like Pen-y-Ghent and Ingleborough often visible on clear days. The area is also known for its karst landscape, featuring several caves. Yordas Cave, located nearby, is a popular attraction for its unique formations and an internal waterfall, making it an accessible adventure for many visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit