Whinlatter Pass Walk

Route Description for Whinlatter Pass Walk

The Walk through Whinlatter Pass is a scenic adventure that will take you through some forested areas that feature uneven and often muddy terrain. Be sure to wear proper walking boots in order to maintain the best footing along the trail. Additionally, there are a few portions of this route that will require you to cross over or walk alongside a fairly busy road. Be cautious when traversing the stretches of trail in these areas.

Even though portions of the trail are alongside the road, this is still a scenic walking route that visits several unique highlights with beautiful views. From the car park, the trail initially sets out in the forest to visit the rushing waters of Spout Gill before crossing the Scawgill Bridge on the gradual climb through Whinlatter Pass. After taking in the views of the surrounding mountains, you will complete a loop through Hobcarton Plantation, before returning to the trailhead. This walk only features a small amount of elevation gain, making it suitable for beginner walkers.

Setting out from the layby at the side of the road, make your way northeast and pass through the gate, following the trail for 0.19mi along the flowing waters of Whit Beck until you enter into the dense cover of the trees. From here, make your way through the tranquil woodland atmosphere for another 0.2 km, where you will be greeted with some nice views of the torrenting waters of Spout Force. After taking in the sights, turn back along the trail and retrace your steps back to the car park, heading left to follow along the road.

From this point, follow alongside the road for the next 2.1 km, as you climb gradually uphill through the pass and take in views of the rugged peaks of Brown How and Whinlatter on your left. After reaching the Hobcarton Car Park on your right, turn right and follow the trail for 40 m to cross over Whinlatter Gill and arrive at a junction.

Turn right here to begin the loop portion of the walk that will take you through the beautiful stretch of forest known as the Hobcarton Plantation. Keep right along the trail for 0.5 km, where you will turn left to walk alongside Hobcarton Gill for the next 0.3 km. Keep straight through the junction here and continue on for another 0.7 km, while enjoying the peaceful forest setting. Reaching a fork in the path, turn left and you will be back at the car park in 0.4 km.

From here, make a right turn to exit the forest and pass the car park, crossing back over Whinlatter Gill before turning left to follow the road back down the pass. After 2.1 km of retracing your steps through the scenic pass, you will arrive back at the layby where you began the Whinlatter Pass Walk.