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Cotter Force is one of the most loved waterfalls in the Yorkshire Dales. To this end, it has been made accessible for pushchairs and wheelchairs by the creation of a purpose built track that leads from the roadside parking area to the waterfall.
The track here is flat pretty along its entire length, although there are occasional ups and downs which a wheelchair-user might feel but certainly nothing too taxing.
It’s only a short trek too – about a mile there and back.
The track itself follows Cotter Beck which itself offers an abundance of wildlife for you to spot including dippers, grey wagtails, redstarts and kingfishers. The meadows can also bring a burst of vivid colour if you visit at the right time of year.
The finale of the trek (although don’t forget you’ve got to go back to the car) is Cotter Force itself. Made up of six drops, the falls are often referred to as “the wedding cake falls”. J.M.W. Turner sketched them for his Yorkshire Sketchbook in 1816 so you are following the footsteps of a hallowed artist as well.
It’s a delightful little walk with absolutely no route finding required. With the babbling beck, bursts of colourful wildflowers and birds aplenty, it really does offer great value for money, so to speak.
FAQs
Where do I park?
There is roadside parking by the entrance to the track on the A684 heading west out of Appersett for just under a mile. The track is also clearly signposted.
What map do I need?
OS Landranger 98 Wensleydale & Upper Wharfedale
What facilities are there?
The nearest accessible loos are in Hawes.
Route Details
You can see the walk here on the map.
Useful links