This is a spectacular walk and is a variation to the usual 'tourist route' which starts with Pavey Ark. In good conditions allow a comfortable 5- 6 hours to take in the stunning views from the tops.

  O/S Landranger Map Legend

Park at the National Trust Car Park next to the Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel and walk behind the hotel heading east on the clearly marked Cumbrian Way. Walk approximately half a mile until you reach a stile. Turn left and with the wall now on your right, ascend towards Thorn Crag. In terms of navigation, this is the trickiest bit of the day.

Pass between Thorn and Gimmer Crags, with the conical Pike of Stickle as the first target of the day. From here the views across to the more famous Peaks are incredible.

Coming off the Pike, heading east, follow the well trodden path to cross a stream before climbing steadily to the summit of Harrison Stickle. From the cairn, the third summit of Pavey Ark can be seen atop an impressively rugged face, with the Stickle Tarn glimmering way below. If you're feeling energetic, continue NNW to Thunacar Knott, otherwise bear NNE along the ridge to Pavey Ark.

Rather than descending via the North Rake, skirt the rocks towards the gully which conducts Bright Beck to Stickle Tarn. Attaining the Tarn, follow the path which borders it and leads to the dam wall. From here there is a well trodden path passing under Tarn Crag, which follows the Ghyll down and you can rejoin the path back to the welcoming warmth and fine ale of the Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel.