Goat Crag

About Goat Crag

Rising steeply above the village of Boot, this rugged Birkett offers a craggy introduction to the Eskdale fells. Despite its modest height, the terrain is classic Lakeland granite and heather, providing an excellent vantage point over the lower Esk valley and the distant coastline without the crowds found on higher neighbours.

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Did You Know?

• •The name is rooted in local farming history, combining the Celtic 'creag', meaning a rocky outcrop, with a reference to the feral or pastured goats that were once a common sight on the steep slopes above Eskdale.
• •The summit is a recognized Birkett and Synge; Bill Birkett included it for its fine character and its position as a natural balcony overlooking the granitic landscapes of the southern Lake District.
• •Most walkers pass directly beneath its western flank while following the ancient peat tracks and the 'corpse road' leading from Boot towards Burnmoor Tarn and Wasdale Head.
• •The view from the top offers a superb perspective on the Scafell massif's southern aspects, with the long ridge of Slight Side appearing particularly imposing across the upper valley.
• •Looking west, the view follows the winding River Esk all the way to its meeting with the sea at the Ravenglass estuary, with the massive silhouette of Harter Fell dominating the skyline to the south.
• •At just 312 metres, the climb is short, though the local bracken has a reputation for being far more intimidating than the actual incline during the summer months.