- Curlew – The call of the curlew is the soundtrack to Spring in the Dales. These iconic, ground nesters return to their upland breeding sites from late February – Upper Wensleydale is one location to try to hear the haunting cry of these birds for yourself.
- Red squirrels – Best spotted at Snaizeholme red squirrel sanctuary in Widdale, these characterful native creatures are a rare sight in the wider countryside.
- Tarn Sike nature reserve – Taking its name from the stream that flows through it, Tarn Sike has a wide range of habitats and is close to Sunbiggin Tarn, a stunning marl lake with great views.
- Drystone walling – Drystone walls are defining features of the landscape, shaped over thousands of years by people and nature; head to the Dales Countryside Museum in Hawes for a drystone walling demonstration.
- Dark skies – The National Park is home to some of the darkest skies in the country, markedly free from light pollution. and is designated a Dark Sky Reserve; spot the Milky Way (Jan-March) and constellations, and experience meteor showers for yourself.
- Settle-Carlisle Railway – Probably the most scenic railway journey in England, the line opened in 1876; in the 72 miles between Settle and Carlisle, there are 14 tunnels and over 20 viaducts – including the iconic Ribblehead.
- Grass Wood Nature Reserve – Both an ancient woodland and one of the largest broadleaf woodlands in the Dales, it is famous for its cacophonous dawn chorus in Spring.
- Geology walk – Take the Orton Scar & Knott geology walk in the Westmorland Dales for a story of tropical seas, the action of ice and water, and the shaping of the landscape by people.
- Farming & agriculture – Go on a farm experience: livestock farming is a special quality of the Dales with distinct sheep breeds and a strong tradition of upland cattle rearing that is deeply interwoven into local life and made famous through local cheese.
- Hay meadows – Species-rich hay meadows, particularly those around Muker and Yockenthwaite, are a must-see around May and June when the landscape comes alive with colour.
- Malham Tarn National Nature Reserve – visit in the summer to experience wildflowers in full bloom, and amazing birdlife and invertebrates.
- Hudswell Woods – A circular trail takes in fields of wildflowers, steep hills cloaked in historic woodland, and views of Richmond – perfect for families.
- Oxenber & Wharfe Woods – A real gem, and with a lovely café nearby at Feizor, you can truly connect with nature in this Site of Special Scientific Interest.