The first stage where you have to cross ground high enough for the route to be possibly confusing if the cloud is low. However the trail is well used and occasionally signposted. After walking along the spectacular valley of Mickleden you ascend to Stake Pass, at 480m the highest point on the Cumbria Way until you get north of Keswick. In clear weather it is possible to make a detour to ascend either or both of the Langdale Pikes. From Stake Pass it is a steep descent into the long, silent and uninhabited valley of Langstrath to the first settlement, Stonethwaite. Beyond Stonethwaite the valley broadens out and there is a choice of paths, bridleways and minor roads to lead you to the other hamlets of Longthwaite, Rosthwaite and Seatoller. If you are combining stages 4 and 5 into one day it is worth knowing that there are cafés and pubs at both Stonethwaite and Rosthwaite.