Information

This Phototrail forms a worthwhile extension to the Norber trail, providing a day walk full of interest and variety; it is not a stand-alone walk in its own right. It begins at the sign post near the Erratics (Norber photo number 15), and crosses through Nappa Scars before entering the beautiful valley of Crummackdale and a great picnic spot at the Austwick Beck ford and Clapper bridges before heading through the hamlet of Wharfe to eventually rejoin the Norber trail at the Austwick play park (Norber photo number 21).

Once into Crummackdale it is fairly sheltered and follows a network of ancient walled tracks. The route passes close by a number of houses and farms; please respect the peace and quiet of the area. You will need to keep an eye open for farm vehicles using the narrow lanes, and be especially vigilante when on the minor tarmac road en route to Wood End Farm.

In wet weather Austwick Beck can become a raging torrent, making the ford impassable. In these conditions even crossing the Clapper bridges can be a risky undertaking. Retracing your steps to Crummack Lane will allow you to follow a footpath and track via Slaindale to the minor road near Mill Bridge and on to Wood End.

The Crummackdale Phototrail covers just over 5 kilometres, with only 50m of ascent. There is a toilet at the play park as well as at the Austwick village hall. Boots are recommended, and waterproofs, hat, gloves and spare clothing carried if not worn. Note that mobile phones do not work very well in the upper part of the dale, although you will never be more than five or ten minutes away from an accessible roadhead.