Highlight (Segment) • Natural
Urra Moor
Hiking
5.0
(44)
This Highlight goes through a protected area
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Tips
November 26, 2018
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Urra Moor
4.8
(65)
200
hikers
13.3km
04:08
470m
460m
Embark on the Wainstones, Cold Moor & Urra Moor loop for a moderate hike through the dramatic landscapes of the North York Moors National Park. This 8.2-mile (13.3 km) route, typically taking around 4 hours and 8 minutes to complete, features a significant 1531 feet (467 metres) of elevation gain. You will traverse varied terrain, from established moorland pathways and grassy footpaths to rocky sections and potentially boggy heather on Cold Moor and Urra Moor. The trail offers superb panoramic views over the surrounding plain, stretching towards Middlesbrough and Roseberry Topping, and into valleys like Bilsdale and Raisdale, with the prominent sandstone crags of The Wainstones serving as a striking visual anchor.
Planning your visit requires you to be prepared for mixed conditions. The terrain can be rocky in places, and sections through the heather on Cold Moor and Urra Moor may be wet and boggy, even during summer months. While the trail is generally considered moderate, it includes several steep ascents and descents, particularly around The Wainstones and Hasty Bank. Always wear appropriate outdoor clothing and suitable walking shoes or boots, as visibility can sometimes be poor and conditions can change quickly in the North York Moors.
This loop takes you to Urra Moor, the highest point in the North York Moors at 1490 feet (454 metres), where you can find a trig point and prehistoric remains like Billy's Dyke. You will also encounter The Wainstones, impressive sandstone crags popular with climbers, which hold ancient human history including Bronze Age carvings. The route follows a significant portion of the well-maintained Cleveland Way, and on Cold Moor, you can explore the Bronze Age burial mounds known as the “Three Howes.”
3.7
(3)
14
hikers
Embark on a difficult 11.1-mile (17.9 km) hike through the North York Moors, gaining 1327 feet (405 metres) in elevation over approximately 5 hours and 6 minutes. This loop from Chop Gate takes you across expansive heather moorlands, where paths can be hard to spot, and offers ridge walks with rocky outcrops. You'll reach Round Hill, the highest point in the park at 1,490 feet (454m), providing vast panoramic views. The trail then descends into the lush, green, and wooded Tripsdale valley, a distinct change from the open moorland.
This difficult route requires very good fitness due to significant elevation changes, including a sharp ascent right from Chop Gate. Be prepared for steep ascents and descents throughout the journey. While the paths are mostly accessible, sure-footedness is important, and walking poles are advised for the steeper sections. The best time to experience the full beauty of the moorland is in late summer when the heather blooms purple.
Urra Moor, the highest moorland in the North York Moors National Park, offers a vast and peaceful landscape. This area is rich in ancient history, featuring barrow graves, cairns, and rock carvings that are thousands of years old, including the intriguing "Face Stone." Parts of this loop also merge with sections of the well-known Cleveland Way and Coast to Coast long-distance trails, adding to its notable character.
4.5
(10)
98
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Distance 1.38 km
Uphill 10 m
Downhill 70 m
Weather
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Tuesday 16 June
20°C
12°C
29 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 25.0 km/h
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