The River Wharfe, perhaps one of the most canoeable rivers in Yorkshire, lies within 20 miles of Leeds and Bradford, it offers canoeists a broad range of differing water conditions with outstanding views of the Wharfe valley. The stretch between Burnsal & Barden has limited access times.

Starting at one of the two access points, Linton Mill car park, access to the river is gained below Linton Falls. With the turbulent waters of the falls behind you, a fast running section soon brings into sight the stepping stones which lead to the beautiful church of St Michael's, a left hand bend leads you into a long straight section with the Hebden Suspension Bridge as your guide. One word of warning, mind the stepping stones just below the bridge.

After a couple of minor rapids we enter a gorge section. White limestone cliffs rise above our heads leading us into Loup Scar. Low water reveals rock reefs whilst high water gives the unwary a cauldron of eddies which might make you regret that second fried egg sandwich. After the excitement of Loup Scar we have time to reflect on the outstanding beauty of the valley unfolding before us. Finally a flat section brings into view the bridge at Burnsall.

For those on the water seeking fresh challenges, pass under the centre arch making your way to the right hand bank, the village green is the second access point (please use the car park). Moving water quickly brings us to a sharp left-hand bend, mind the shallow water on the inside. More paddling leads us to the start of Woodhouse rapids. Start on the left moving over to the right, mind the rocks, keep to the deep water. Suddenly your picking up speed, the river is funneled into a channel, rocks on the left trees on the right, this is good fun. But beware, one large rock in the centre is ready to give you a fright, nice bouncy waves to play on, but you are urged onwards by the prospect of ever greater delights. There will be many minor rapids before your eventual arrival and possible baptism at Appletreewick Gorge Falls. Not for the faint hearted in high water, but with careful planning or just good luck, safe arrival in the pool at the bottom of the first fall is assured.

For those who have not paddled the river before a quick foray down the footpath will satisfy you on the best route. Paddle over to the right hand side of the island, making your way through the gaps in the rocks. Nice pools to sit in whilst you plan your next move. You should exit the fall on the extreme right hand side, this will ensure that you pass safely through the stopper which will gobble up the less able navigator. At this point you can egress from the water and try your luck again. But remember, for the less daring in the party the gorge is a cold place, even at the height of summer it seems to draw a wind up the gorge which will chill the body. The second set of falls can look more disturbed than the top falls, but with care a safe descent is achieved with big bouncy waves to look forward to in high water. No more big, exciting, rapids or falls, but a pleasant trip with views of the valley unfolding at each bend in the river.

The end of the trail is at Barden Bridge, egress on the left-hand bank upstream of the bridge.

GENERAL INFORMATION

DISTANCE: 5¹/₂ miles (Linton Falls Bridge to Barden Bridge.)

MAP REQUIRED: OS Sheet 104, Leeds and Bradford. 1:50,000 Second Series.

THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT: This section of the Wharfe is a prime game river carrying both trout and grayling, please remember the Canoeing Code. Carboniferous limestone which is associated with the Yorkshire Dales, is overlaid with sandstone known as Yoredale Series. Millstone grit has been put down on top of these strata and the area has been subject to faulting (the Craven Faults) these can be seen round Loup Scar and north of Appletreewick. Wildflowers are abundant in this area, especially around the riverside. Species to look out for include primroses, violets, ragged robin, bluebell, bird's eye primrose, cranesbill and many others. Bird life includes mallard, dipper, coot, kingfisher, swallows, martins, heron, pheasant and oystercatcher.

The section of river covered by this trail is accompanied by a riverside footpath, which forms part of the Dales Way. Canoeing is allowed by kind permission of:

The Bolton Abbey Estate
Mr. Knowles-Fitton
Mr. A Simpson
Appletreewick, Barden and Burnsall Angling Club

This section is covered by an access agreement. Do not canoe outside the agreed dates. Civility to anglers at all times please, even on the rare occasion when it is not reciprocated. They too have every right to their peace and pleasure. Paddlers are requested to park at the car parks at Burnsall and Barden. Do not park and cause obstructions at Hebden and Appletreewick. Please follow the Canoeists Code.

ACCESS DETAILS

After discussions with our Club members, and with the British Canoe Union (BCU) at a national and regional level, it has been decided that Leeds Canoe Club will not be renewing the access agreement. The angling club have been informed of our decision.

We feel that it is more appropriate that an access agreement be negotiated by BCU on behalf of all kayakers.  There is currently no formal access agreement on the Lower Wharfe.

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