Haystacks Walk Route Guide
Table of contents
Route Description for Haystacks Walk
Haystacks is a wonderful walk that could be great for families with young children, if not for the need to use your hands on the way up. If going with kids you can do the walk in reverse and walk up to Haystacks and back the same way, which will help you to avoid the challenging bits. These sections are not extreme and we have seen a couple take their three Dachshunds up with them, lifting them up over scrambly areas, so it is really up to your experience and comfort level.
This is a wonderful walk and gives truly unique scenery in the Lakes. From the car park across from Gatesgarth Farm, cross the street and continue down the path to the right of the barn and through two gates onto a large track to the left of a hedge. Passing another gate at 275 m, you will continue straight ahead before passing yet another gate in 275 m to follow the path on an uphill climb.
At the top of a set of stone stairs, turn left and continue uphill. Starting in mid-May you will start to see occasional bluebells while you ascend; however, they reach their peak later on in the summer. Here, you will pass yet another gate and continue ahead. You’re aiming for Scarth Gap which is ahead on the miniature saddle to the right.
After passing a stream (that could result in getting your feet wet after rain), head through a stonewall and continue uphill, reaching Scarth Gap after 2.4 km (2.4 km from the start). From here, continue uphill to the left on a well-defined path. As you head uphill there are a few sections requiring the use of your hands for stability. This scrambly section can be challenging if the trail is wet, however we have seen people take small dogs up this route.
As you pass over Haystacks the views unfold, and at 3.5 km (3.5 km) you reach the stunning Innominate Tarn. As you walk downhill you get great views in all directions.
410 m later, you will cross a stream that comes out of Black Beck Tarn and the left-hand path heading back uphill. After 450 m ignore a path going off to the right and when the path splits in two 90 m later, take the right-hand path in the direction of an old stone building on other side of valley. The left-hand path also takes you back down the valley but isn’t as scenic.
After 320 m,you will need to cross a stream where poles can come in handy after lots of rain. From here on, follow the well-worn path back down to Gatesgarth farm where you started.
Looking for more great walks in the Lake District? Check out the Helvellyn Walk, Scafell Pike Walk, Fairfield Horseshoe or the Old Man of Coniston.
Insider Hints for Haystacks Walk
- This path can be extended by starting in Buttermere and heading up Red Pike, High Stile and High Crag.
- If you are driving, consider driving out of the beautiful Honister Pass road. Later in the day, when traffic is light this is a wonderful drive.
- You can get to Buttermere from Keswick on the Honister Ramber Bus.
Getting to the Haystacks Walk Trailhead
To start the Haystacks Walk, get yourself to Buttermere and then head SE to Gatesgarth farm, where there is paid parking. Be aware, the roads to get to Buttermere are narrow and can be very steep.Route Information for Haystacks Walk
When to do:
When Dry, no fog
Backcountry Campsites:
None
Toilets:
None
Family friendly:
No
Route Signage:
None
Crowd Levels:
Moderate to High
Route Type:
Circuit
Haystacks Walk Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherReviews for Haystacks Walk
Incredible views in the valley! Lots of photo opportunities!
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Excellent! There are so many great hike here in the Lake Distrct and this is one of my favorite.
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Lake District offers great hikes! Haystacks got some charms on its own!
- Trip Length
- 03:00
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I'm so glad the fog cleared up and we were able to see the majestic scenery!
- Trip Length
- 03:00
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I can't forget the view as we were passing by the Haystacks. It was a little cloudy, but the sun rays light some portion of the lake perfectly as if someone is going to descend from it. It sounds funny, but I rarely witness this kind of nature interference. It only adds up to its beauty.
- Trip Length
- 03:15
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
good hike and awesome view of the lake.
- Trip Length
- 03:20
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The hike was great. Totally rewarding to see the gorgeous lake. This have got to be in some movies!
- Trip Length
- 03:00
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Fantastic views of Buttermere, Crummock and Ennerdale.Stunning!
- Trip Length
- 03:30
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Wow! I was totally blown-away by the views. I want to do this hike again.
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Excellent climb. Good views from the summit on a sunny day
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