Map & Elevation
About this Route
This GPX climbs Harrison Stickle from New Dungeon Ghyll by the Stickle Ghyll path and returns the same way. It covers 4.6 km with about 654 m of ascent, so allow 3½ to 5 hours. The route is short because it climbs directly: stone pitching, rocky steps and the steep final slope make it much harder than the mileage suggests.
From the car park, follow the well-built path beside Stickle Ghyll. It rises quickly past waterfalls and pools, with several steep sections where the stones are polished by water and boots. Near Stickle Tarn, leave the main tarn-side lines and follow the GPX west towards Harrison Stickle. The upper path climbs rough grass and rock to the summit at 736 m, where the ground drops sharply towards Great Langdale and Dungeon Ghyll.
Return by exactly the same route. This GPX does not include Jack's Rake, Pavey Ark, Pike o' Stickle or a circuit of the Langdale Pikes. Those alternatives involve different terrain and, in the case of Jack's Rake, serious scrambling and exposure. Take care locating the descent towards Stickle Tarn, then slow down on the long pitched path beside the ghyll. It becomes a stream in places after rain and can be icy in winter.
Stickle Ghyll gives no gentle introduction; the path climbs hard beside the water from the moment you leave Langdale.
TrailTrack
Route Waypoints
Start from the designated parking area and follow signs for Stickle Tarn. Keep hotel, emergency and farm access clear.
Join the pitched path beside the beck. Wet stones and high steps make the climb immediately demanding.
Continue past falls and pools, staying on the built path. Keep away from slippery rocks at the water's edge.
Climb the steeper stone staircase towards the tarn. In heavy rain, water may run directly down the path.
Near the tarn, turn west on the route towards Harrison Stickle. Do not follow signs or walkers towards Jack's Rake.
Climb rough grass and stones above the tarn. Check the return line before the ridge blocks the view below.
Reach the 736 m summit. Stay clear of steep ground above Dungeon Ghyll, especially in wind or cloud.
Retrace the tarn path and descend the pitched Stickle Ghyll route slowly to the car park.
Essential Tips
Jack's Rake is an exposed scramble and is not part of this GPX. Do not follow it simply because other walkers are using it.
The path beside Stickle Ghyll is polished and often carries running water. Boots with good grip are essential.
Several paths leave the summit plateau. Take a bearing back towards Stickle Tarn before starting down.
Descending the long stone staircase is tiring and slow. Keep daylight and energy in reserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to climb Harrison Stickle from New Dungeon Ghyll?
Allow 3½ to 5 hours for the full round trip. The route is only 4.9 km, but the steep stone steps and 623 m of ascent make it much slower than the distance suggests.
Why is the Harrison Stickle walk graded as strenuous if it's only 5km?
The route climbs directly up beside Stickle Ghyll with stone pitching, rocky steps, and a steep final slope gaining over 620 m of ascent. The polished wet stones and relentless gradient make it far harder than the short mileage suggests.
What should I watch out for when descending Stickle Ghyll?
The pitched stone path is polished smooth by boots and often has running water on it, making it slippery. Take it slowly, wear boots with good grip, and allow plenty of time—descending the long staircase is tiring and time-consuming.