Map & Elevation
About this Route
This GPX takes the direct route from Buckden to the summit of Buckden Pike, climbing by Buckden Rake and returning the same way. It is 6.2 km long with about 521 m of ascent, so although the mileage is modest, most of the outward leg is uphill. Allow around 3 to 4 hours at an unhurried pace, particularly if the ground is wet or visibility is poor.
From the National Park car park, walk into Buckden and pick up the signed path climbing away from the village. The route soon settles onto Buckden Rake, an old track associated with the area's lead-mining past. It rises steadily across open fellside, passing old workings and becoming rougher as height is gained. Higher up, the line crosses wetter moorland before meeting the broad summit area. The trig point and memorial cross stand close together, but low cloud can make the final approach and the return surprisingly hard to read.
Come back by exactly the same route. Do not follow paths dropping towards Cray or Starbotton, as those belong to longer circuits. Buckden Rake is clear in good weather, but the upper fell is exposed and can be boggy, icy or very windy. Carry a map and compass as well as the GPX, and take care around old mine workings and drainage channels.
A good clear route leads up the fell from the car park in Buckden.
Yorkshire Dales National Park
Route Waypoints
Start from the National Park car park beside the B6160. Use the village exit and look for the signed fell path rather than walking along the main road.
Turn onto the signed path climbing behind the village. Gates and walls funnel the route onto open pasture; close each gate behind you.
Join the old rake and follow it uphill. The gradient is steady and the stony surface can be slippery after rain.
Pass the scattered remains of lead-mining activity. Stay on the established line and keep away from shafts, spoil edges and unguarded hollows.
The track becomes less distinct across wetter moorland. Keep checking the bearing towards the summit, especially when cloud is sitting on the fell.
Follow the broad rising ground to the cairned top. In snow or mist, note the direction of the return before leaving the clearer rake behind.
Reach the trig point and nearby memorial cross at 702 m. The summit is exposed, with little shelter in strong wind.
Retrace Buckden Rake all the way to the village and car park. Ignore paths heading for Cray, Starbotton or the Walden Road.
Essential Tips
There are old mine features beside the route. Keep children and dogs close and do not explore shafts or unstable spoil.
The moorland above the rake holds water. Waterproof boots and gaiters are useful after prolonged rain.
The top is broad and confusing in cloud. Record the bearing back to Buckden Rake before wandering away from the trig point.
Ice and wind can make this short route much more serious. Carry winter equipment when conditions demand it and turn back early if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to walk up Buckden Pike?
Allow 3 to 4 hours at an unhurried pace for the full out-and-back route. The estimated walking time is just over 2 hours, but add extra if the ground is wet or visibility is poor.
Is Buckden Pike suitable for beginners?
It depends on the conditions. The route is direct and only 6.3 km, but most of it is uphill with 467 m of ascent, and the upper fell can be boggy, exposed, and confusing in mist. It's manageable for reasonably fit beginners in good weather, but carry a map and compass.
Where do I park for Buckden Pike?
Start from the Buckden National Park car park beside the B6160. From there, walk into the village and pick up the signed fell path that climbs away from Buckden.