Map & Elevation
About this Route
This GPX makes a short, direct ascent of Ward Hill from the Dwarfie Stane parking area on Hoy. It covers 4.6 km and gains 488 m, returning by the same line. The mileage is small, but this is a steep, pathless moorland climb to the 479 m highest point in Orkney, not a surfaced visitor trail.
From the parking place, cross to the gate opposite and head directly onto the open slope. A faint trod may appear and disappear among heather and peat. Climb towards the easier ground on the upper ridge, passing over or near the rise of Haist before a short dip. The final ascent leads west to Ward Hill's large summit cairn. On a clear day the view reaches across Hoy, Scapa Flow and Mainland Orkney. Retrace the same route east, taking particular care on the very steep descent towards the road. The nearby Dwarfie Stane is reached by its own maintained path and makes a worthwhile separate stop.
There are no reliable path signs on the hill and very little shelter. Low cloud makes the rounded ridge difficult to read, while strong Orkney wind can make the upper slope and descent unpleasant. Heather hides holes and wet peat, so ankle-supporting footwear and gaiters can be useful. Carry a map and compass, take a bearing before leaving the summit and avoid disturbing nesting birds, particularly skuas during the breeding season.
Ward Hill is a short walk on paper, but the pathless heather and Orkney wind make every metre count.
TrailTrack
Route Waypoints
Start at the roadside parking area. The Dwarfie Stane path is on one side of the road; Ward Hill begins through the gate opposite.
Pass through the gate and head onto the open moor. There may be no continuous path, so set the correct bearing from the outset.
Climb through rough heather and peat. Pick firm ground without creating a new trod and watch for hidden holes.
The gradient becomes relentless. Zigzag only where needed for secure footing and look back to fix the descent line.
Reach easier ground around the 333 m rise of Haist. In mist, confirm the westward continuation rather than following a false shoulder.
Drop briefly to the broad col, then prepare for the last steep climb towards the summit cairn.
Reach the large cairn at 479 m, the highest point in Orkney. Take a return bearing before leaving if visibility is poor.
Retrace the route over Haist. Slow down on the steep lower slope and pass back through the gate to the parking area.
Essential Tips
There is no dependable path across much of the hill. Carry a map and compass and know how to use them in low cloud.
The route is under five kilometres but climbs nearly 500 metres on rough ground. Allow time for a slow, careful descent.
Skuas and other ground-nesting birds use the upper moor. Move away calmly if birds repeatedly dive or alarm-call.
Hoy's highest hill is very exposed. Turn back if gusts affect balance, particularly before the final ridge and steep descent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a marked path up Ward Hill?
No, there's no dependable path for much of the climb. You'll be crossing pathless moorland with only faint trods that appear and disappear, so you'll need a map and compass.
How long does it take to climb Ward Hill on Hoy?
Around 1 hour 40 minutes for the 4.8 km round trip. Don't let the short distance fool you—it's a steep, pathless climb that gains 429 metres, so you'll need to budget time for a slow, careful descent.
When should I avoid climbing Ward Hill because of nesting birds?
Be particularly careful during breeding season when skuas nest on the upper moor. If birds repeatedly dive or alarm-call, move away calmly and give them space.