The trail begins at Ilkley's Old Bridge, following the River Wharfe through meadows to Addingham, pubs and cafe in the village center. From Addingham, the path follows the River Wharfe through lush pastures before joining Bolton Road and following to Bolton Bridge. A cafe and pub provide refreshments in the village centre.

The route follows field paths to Bolton Abbey. Admire the 12th-century Priory ruins before crossing the Wharfe via the famous stepping stones (or adjacent footbridge). Pass the Cavendish Pavilion offering refreshments and continue through Strid Wood. The route continues to Barden Bridge, then through meadows past Howgill to Appletreewick village (small detour into the village) with its renowned Craven Arms pub featuring traditional drinks and meals.

From Appletreewick, follow riverside meadows past Loup Scar to Burnsall, where the Red Lion pub and Wharfe View Café provide refreshments. Continue along the eastern bank to Hebden suspension bridge, with Hebden village and its Old School Tea Room a short detour away. Field paths lead to historic Linton Falls and its hydro plant, then across a footbridge into Grassington, with cobbled streets, shops, and welcoming pubs.

Leaving Grassington, the trail climbs past the golf course onto the Dales Way Link. Expansive views of Wharfedale open across rolling fields before the path skirts Conistone’s limestone outcrops and reaches Scott Gate Pasture, the high point, before descending into Kettlewell, a picturesque village of cafés and pubs.

From Kettlewell, follow the Wharfe’s western bank through wildflower meadows and past Starbotton Birks to Starbotton village, then continue to Buckden, where Buckden Pike dominates the skyline and the Buck Inn and village shop await.

The trail follows the young River Wharfe through meadows towards Hubberholme, home to St. Michael and All Angels Church with its Mouseman carvings and the 16th-century George Inn. From here, continue through Langstrothdale’s limestone scenery to the hamlet of Yockenthwaite.

Cross Yockenthwaite Bridge and follow the south bank of the narrowing Wharfe. The path climbs gently through meadows and drystone walls to Oughtershaw, once home to author Ella Pontefract. The valley closes in as the route rises toward the watershed. Pass abandoned farmsteads at Swarthgill and cross boggy stretches on flagstones before reaching Cam Houses, Yorkshire’s highest farm.

A final climb leads to the trail’s highest point (520m), offering sweeping views of Ingleborough and Whernside. From here, descend to Blea Moor Road and continue toward Ribblehead, with its iconic viaduct. Take care as the road lacks pavements; refreshments are available from mobile food vans or the Station Inn.