CLIMB YOUR FIRST MOUNTAIN: HAYSTACKS

Haystacks is a relatively lowly fell in terms of stature, but one that is huge on features and interest. With rocky flanks and a lofty summit, it has all the character of a true Lakeland mountain, and all the ingredients to ensure you will fall in love with mountain walking forever. Its rough, knobbly outline is full of impressive scenery. Starting from the lovely Buttermere lake you’ll make your way into the hidden Warnscale Bottom, where the crags and gullies of Haystacks tower above, giving a taste of adventures ahead. The old path climbs at a steady gradient past the photogenic Warnscale Bothy. The summit plateau is full of interesting features including Innominate Tarn, where Lakes guidebook writer Alfred Wainwright’s ashes are scattered. But it is the view from the rocky top down Buttermere and to the fells beyond that you will never forget. Beyond the summit is a steep descent to reach Scarth Gap that will have you clambering down rocks, to finish with an easing gradient back down to the lake.

WALK IT

How hard? Typical rough Lakes terrain with grassy and rocky sections.

Start point Car park at Gatesgarth (NY195150)

Distance 7.25km/4½ miles

Ascent 624m

Time 3-4 hours

Best map OS Explorer OL4

Get the route -click here

(* Don’t forget you can get half price Digital OS Maps with a Trail magazine subscription!)