Gordale is one of the UK's major limestone climbing destinations having a mix of adventurous trad climbing and magnificent sport climbs. On first acquaintance Gordale is an impressive but intimidating spot, its small waterfalls and stream being sandwiched between overhanging walls with only vague natural lines of weakness evident. The climbing itself is challenging and ranges from extremely rewarding but committing trad climbs on sometimes less than reliable rock to long and very sustained sport lines - the best being on excellent rock. The finest climbs are exclusively limited to the higher grades. Like nearby Malham Cove, Gordale is a very popular tourist spot and during the summer holidays there is a constant line of ramblers scrambling up the gorge, however during summer evenings, and out of holiday periods, the gorge can be very quiet.