Hazard: Moderate
One of the most remote summits in Lakeland, set among the lonely fells south of Ennerdale and reached only by long approaches from Ennerdale or Wasdale. There is broken rock at Little Gowder Crag on the ridge west of the top, faint paths hidden among rock and heather, and steep crags on the northern side — but the real hazard is the sheer remoteness: a long, rough walk-out where any mishap becomes serious. Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team's ground.
- Remoteness and long approaches: Haycock is a long, rough walk from any direction, with narrow paths. A minor injury, navigation error or late finish turns serious here because you are a long way from a road, and any rescue takes time to reach you. Carry full kit, food and water, a means of calling for help, and allow generous daylight.
- Little Gowder Crag (ridge west of the summit): On the ridge between Haycock and Caw Fell the path crosses broken rock and boulders at Little Gowder Crag. Straightforward for confident walkers in the dry, awkward and slippery when wet.
- Faint paths & northern crags in cloud: Paths are indistinct and easily lost among the rocks and heather, and the northern side breaks into crags above the Ennerdale coves (the link along Long Crag toward Steeple runs close to sheer drops). Navigate carefully by compass and keep back from the northern edges in mist.
Who should attempt this fell: Haycock is for walkers happy with rough, remote ground and confident navigation. Plan it as a big day: carry plenty of water and food, full kit and a way to summon help, and leave a wide time margin so you are not benighted far from the road. Take the broken rock at Little Gowder Crag carefully, keep clear of the northern crags in cloud, and turn back if the weather closes in — it is no place to be caught out.
What to watch for: Difficulties magnified by remoteness and a long walk-out · Navigation errors on faint paths hidden in rock and heather · Slips on the broken rock at Little Gowder Crag when wet · Walkers straying toward the northern crags/Long Crag drops in poor visibility
Local Mountain Rescue: Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team (opens in new tab)
Safety: Always check current conditions, carry proper navigation equipment, and seek qualified instruction before heading onto the fells. In an emergency, call 999, ask for Police, then Mountain Rescue.
Report incorrect information ↗ (opens in new tab)