These hills form a dramatic escarpment of land that swings round from the Stainmore Gap northwards towards Hadrian's Wall, rising to an impressive 2,930 ft on the summit of Cross Fell, the highest point in the Pennines. This is walking country 'par excellence' with the famous Pennine Way dropping down into the village of Dufton Fell via the breath-taking ravine of High Cup Gill from High Cup Nick. At the head of this perfectly formed U-shaped Valley is one of the highlights of the Pennine Way, described by Wainwright as an 'unforgettable sight', a 'natural wonder'.

The hills are responsible for the 'Helm Wind', a local phenomenon caused by cold easterly air rising over Cross Fell then rushing down the steep escarpment where it meets warm air, which rises and causes a turbulent air-stream. At times, this wind literally roars across the surrounding hills at speeds of up to 80 miles per hour. Indeed centuries ago the hills were exorcised, as people believed the loud roaring of the wind to be the sound of evil spirits.