Simon's Seat & The Valley of Desolation

Route Overview & Local Insights

This 12.4km adventure through the Yorkshire Dales offers a quintessential fell running experience, trading asphalt for rugged moorland and ancient woodland. Starting near the Bolton Abbey estate, you'll tackle a 397m ascent that begins with a climb through the evocatively named Valley of Desolation. Don't let the name fool you; this is a lush, vibrant terrain featuring waterfalls and rocky outcrops. The technical nature of the ascent requires nimble footwork as you push toward the gritstone outcrop of Simon's Seat. Once at the summit, the terrain transitions into more fluid, runnable moorland tracks, allowing you to pick up the pace and find a rhythmic stride on the descent back into the valley.

Steeped in local Yorkshire lore, the Valley of Desolation earned its striking title following a catastrophic storm in 1826 that flattened the valley’s ancient trees. Today, the area has reclaimed its beauty and serves as a gateway to the high heather moors of Barden Fell. Simon's Seat itself provides one of the best vantage points in Wharfedale, offering 360-degree views that stretch across to the peaks of Ingleborough and Pen-y-ghent on a clear day. This landscape has been a favorite for generations of local harriers and fell runners who come to test their lungs against the steep gradients and their technical skills against the gritstone edges.