Map & Elevation
About this Route
This GPX climbs Cross Fell from Kirkland by High Cap, joining the Pennine Way for the final approach. The out-and-back route is 11.5 km with about 673 m of ascent. Allow 5 to 7 hours: the western approach is direct, but the summit plateau is rough, exposed and slow in poor conditions.
From Kirkland, follow the track uphill past fields and open access land towards High Cap. The line becomes a fell path as it crosses increasingly open moorland. Higher up, it joins the Pennine Way and turns towards Cross Fell's broad summit. Cairns, the trig point, cross shelter and stone windbreaks help identify the top at 893 m, but none should be relied upon for navigation in mist. Cross Fell is famous for the Helm Wind, and conditions can become severe very quickly.
Return to Kirkland by the same Pennine Way section and High Cap approach. This GPX does not continue to Great Dun Fell, Garrigill or Greg's Hut. The upper plateau is featureless when cloud is down, with peat, stones and snow capable of hiding the path. Carry a map and compass, check the mountain forecast and take a careful bearing from the summit before descending. In winter, expect a full mountain day with deep drifts, ice and a much slower pace.
Cross Fell can look gentle from below, but the plateau has weather and scale of its own.
TrailTrack
Route Waypoints
Begin in Kirkland and take the signed uphill track. Park considerately without blocking farm access, gates or turning areas.
Follow the track through enclosed land, closing gates behind you. Keep dogs under control around livestock.
Pass onto open access ground and continue towards High Cap. The surface becomes rougher and wetter from here.
Gain the broad shoulder and keep climbing east. Look back to fix the direction of Kirkland for the return.
Join the Pennine Way and turn towards Cross Fell. In cloud, confirm the junction carefully before committing to the plateau.
The gradient eases onto broad, stony ground. Cairns can be missed in mist or buried by snow.
Reach the trig point and stone shelters at 893 m. Take a checked bearing back to the Pennine Way junction before leaving.
Retrace the Pennine Way, descend over High Cap and follow the field track back into the village.
Essential Tips
Strong easterly winds can accelerate over Cross Fell. If the forecast mentions the Helm Wind or severe gusts, choose another day.
The top is broad and almost featureless in cloud. A phone alone is not enough; carry a map, compass and the skills to use them.
Drifts may hide paths, fences and hollows. Winter equipment and realistic turnaround times are essential.
Kirkland is a small working village. Park only where permitted and keep gates, lanes and yards completely clear.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to climb Cross Fell from Kirkland?
Allow 5 to 7 hours for the full out-and-back route. The distance is 11.5 km with 673 m of ascent, but the summit plateau is rough and exposed, which slows you down considerably in poor conditions.
What is the Helm Wind on Cross Fell?
The Helm Wind is a strong easterly wind that accelerates over Cross Fell and can make conditions severe very quickly. If the forecast mentions it or severe gusts, choose another day to climb.
Where do I park for the Cross Fell walk from Kirkland?
Park at the Kirkland Hall lane-end parking area, but be very considerate. Kirkland is a small working village, so keep gates, lanes, farm yards and turning areas completely clear.