Map & Elevation
About this Route
This GPX climbs Haystacks from Gatesgarth by Scarth Gap and the western ridge, returning the same way. It is 5.9 km long with about 521 m of ascent and usually takes 3½ to 5 hours. The pass path is clear, but the ridge above Scarth Gap is rough, rocky and hands-on in a few places.
Cross Peggy's Bridge from Gatesgarth and follow the old pass route into Warnscale Bottom. The path climbs steadily beside the beck towards Scarth Gap, the col between High Crag and Haystacks. Turn left at the gap and tackle the western ridge. A worn line picks through rock steps and small outcrops; the easiest route avoids the crags, but care and occasional use of hands are needed. The terrain then eases among tarns and knolls before reaching the summit area at 597 m.
Return over the same western ridge and Scarth Gap. This GPX does not descend by Warnscale Beck or continue to Fleetwith Pike. Haystacks has several rocky tops and weaving paths, so locate the correct western descent before leaving. Wet rock, ice and strong wind make the ridge much more serious, while the long pass path can be slippery when tired.
Scarth Gap is one of the pleasantest of foot-passes.
Alfred Wainwright
Route Waypoints
Start near Gatesgarth Farm and use designated parking. Cross the road carefully and keep the farm entrance clear.
Cross Warnscale Beck on the bridge and follow signs for Scarth Gap. Do not turn onto the Warnscale circuit.
Climb the valley path with Haystacks ahead. The surface becomes stonier and steeper with height.
Follow the pitched path towards the col. Loose stones and wet slabs need care on the return.
At the pass, turn left onto Haystacks' western ridge. Note this junction carefully for the descent.
Follow the worn line around and over rock steps. Hands may be useful; avoid paths straying towards crags.
Reach the 597 m summit among rocky knolls. Confirm your position, as several nearby tops look similar.
Retrace the western ridge to Scarth Gap, then descend past Peggy's Bridge to the start.
Essential Tips
The climb above Scarth Gap is not a smooth walking path. Everyone should be comfortable using hands on short rocky sections.
The western ridge becomes hazardous when frozen or gusty. Choose a lower walk if conditions are poor.
The return junction is easy to miss among knolls and tarns. Take a bearing from the summit area before descending.
That is a separate circuit with its own rough descent. This GPX returns by Scarth Gap.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to climb Haystacks from Gatesgarth?
It typically takes 3½ to 5 hours for the full route. The walk is 6 km with 470 m of ascent, returning the same way via Scarth Gap.
Do you need to scramble on Haystacks?
Yes, the western ridge above Scarth Gap requires occasional use of hands on short rocky sections. It's rough and hands-on in places, though the easiest route avoids the main crags.
Where do I park for the Haystacks walk?
Start from Gatesgarth Farm Car Park. Use the designated parking area and keep the farm entrance clear when you arrive.