Scafell Pike Mountain
Scafell Pike Mountain
4.5
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4.5
592 reviews
Excellent
425
Very good
124
Average
36
Poor
3
Terrible
4
Jo P
Brough, UK596 contributions
May 2021 • Couples
Not a walk I would choose to do again, having done Snowdon and Ben Nevis is similar weather (wet and windy) this wasn't a pleasant walk. It was stoney and hard going all the way up and slippy coming down. Also there is a river crossing I wasn't aware of, it was deeper then I thought (I had to take off boots on way up but was so wet on way back down we didn't bother). Glad we have done it but wouldn't be doing it again as there are plenty of nicer places to walk.
Wear good boots and take gloves as it was freezing wind and rain at the top.
Parking is in NT car park £7 or free for members which has a long drop toilet facilities. I recommend taking a pic of the map in the car park as there are a couple of tracks you could take by accident.
Roads to get there are pretty narrow so could be awkward on busier days.
Wear good boots and take gloves as it was freezing wind and rain at the top.
Parking is in NT car park £7 or free for members which has a long drop toilet facilities. I recommend taking a pic of the map in the car park as there are a couple of tracks you could take by accident.
Roads to get there are pretty narrow so could be awkward on busier days.
Written 22 May 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
None stop to the top
2 contributions
Apr 2021 • Solo
A Beautiful walk there wasn't a cloud in site and bearly any wind loved it ...quite challenging even after climbing Helvellyn the week before.
Starting the walk from wasdale head car park which was free to park .
You make your way through a very picturesque field
And across a small wooden bridge
This is were the climb starts not to steep and warms your legs up nicely for when you cross the river
And start up the steeper path
Don't forget to keep looking back as the view is amazing
You carry on up till you hit a y junction that's were you can take the easy or hard route I too the left path the easy route (not easy at all ) and followed the cairns
Through a bolder ridden landscape soon you hit a path again bending to the left away from the summit and keep climbing looking for a path to you right as go
I went to far along the path and came to a large valley
Luckily it's not far from the correct path so doubled back .
In all honesty I was hopeing this path wasn't my path
Because it was a bit schaley and steep .
Luckily your not to far of the summit now and its the last hard bit of the climb .
I never once had to scramble all the way up
And only took a few 30 second breaks on the way up
And it still took me two and half hours
I set of at 7am and was the alone most of the way
I'd brushed up on my mape reading and needed it once or twice.
Even though the conditions were excellent
When at the top you can sit out of the wind and have a brew and sandwich
Coming back down was agonizing on my knees
And slippery even though it was dry I still took a tumble
And bent one of my trekking poles and put on knee supports ..
When I finally got to bottom I was exhausted .
So went for swim in the lake a few miles down the road
Suitably refreshed I drove the 2.5 hour journey home
And loved every minute of it even the pain
Starting the walk from wasdale head car park which was free to park .
You make your way through a very picturesque field
And across a small wooden bridge
This is were the climb starts not to steep and warms your legs up nicely for when you cross the river
And start up the steeper path
Don't forget to keep looking back as the view is amazing
You carry on up till you hit a y junction that's were you can take the easy or hard route I too the left path the easy route (not easy at all ) and followed the cairns
Through a bolder ridden landscape soon you hit a path again bending to the left away from the summit and keep climbing looking for a path to you right as go
I went to far along the path and came to a large valley
Luckily it's not far from the correct path so doubled back .
In all honesty I was hopeing this path wasn't my path
Because it was a bit schaley and steep .
Luckily your not to far of the summit now and its the last hard bit of the climb .
I never once had to scramble all the way up
And only took a few 30 second breaks on the way up
And it still took me two and half hours
I set of at 7am and was the alone most of the way
I'd brushed up on my mape reading and needed it once or twice.
Even though the conditions were excellent
When at the top you can sit out of the wind and have a brew and sandwich
Coming back down was agonizing on my knees
And slippery even though it was dry I still took a tumble
And bent one of my trekking poles and put on knee supports ..
When I finally got to bottom I was exhausted .
So went for swim in the lake a few miles down the road
Suitably refreshed I drove the 2.5 hour journey home
And loved every minute of it even the pain
Written 23 April 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
TheWakeyHarveys
Leeds, UK298 contributions
Sept 2020
This review is for the Corridor Route from Seathwaite and back via Broad Craig
My wife and I climbed Scafell Pike today. We did it from Seathwaite, parked in the lay by and followed the Corridor Route to the summit. Coming back we came via Broad Craig, Great End and Sprinkling Crags back to Seathwaite. We loved this climb, it was a fantastic route but do not underestimate this route. We took it nice and steady and had stops for refreshments and lunch etc, but we left Seathwaite at 7:00am (it was so lovely and quiet then) and it took us eight hours to do 8.5 miles. You need to be fit and agile to do this route. The scenery was absolutely stunning. Some points to consider:
1) ensure your boots are waterproof as there is loads of water to cross and in places the path was a stream
2) prepare and carry the right equipment. Ensure you have the correct navigation- gps, maps and compass and know how to use them. At the summit today the cloud was in for long periods so visibility was almost no existent. The paths generally are pretty good and easy to follow ( there are quite a few helpful stone cairns showing you the way) but have a back up plan in case
3) it was very windy and cold at the summit so be prepared to add layers to keep warm
4) on the Corridor Route near Round How is a large bedrock step, perhaps fifteen to twenty feet high (it’s not sheer but it is very steep) that you have to scramble / climb down (not walk or step down) there are plenty of places to put hands and feet. If you take it steady you will be fine but it is a significant challenge particularly if wet. You cannot get around it, if you try to pass it you will put yourself in a very serious danger. It would be easier to climb then descend. If you are in doubt about this route Google it before trying
5) the summit is very stony so walking is tricky
6) leaving the summit heading for Broad Crag is a steep scramble
7) around Broad Cragg and Great End there is a significant boulder field to cross which is hard work. The boulders can be stepped across and they vary in size from small to small car size. This again is a challenge
8) on the corridor route there is a section called Piers Gill, which isn’t too far from the summit. Be careful around here as it’s an accident blackspot when descending the corridor route in bad weather. Again Google this before attempting so you are prepared
Overall a brilliant day with some world beating scenery and one that we would highly recommend with the above caveats
My wife and I climbed Scafell Pike today. We did it from Seathwaite, parked in the lay by and followed the Corridor Route to the summit. Coming back we came via Broad Craig, Great End and Sprinkling Crags back to Seathwaite. We loved this climb, it was a fantastic route but do not underestimate this route. We took it nice and steady and had stops for refreshments and lunch etc, but we left Seathwaite at 7:00am (it was so lovely and quiet then) and it took us eight hours to do 8.5 miles. You need to be fit and agile to do this route. The scenery was absolutely stunning. Some points to consider:
1) ensure your boots are waterproof as there is loads of water to cross and in places the path was a stream
2) prepare and carry the right equipment. Ensure you have the correct navigation- gps, maps and compass and know how to use them. At the summit today the cloud was in for long periods so visibility was almost no existent. The paths generally are pretty good and easy to follow ( there are quite a few helpful stone cairns showing you the way) but have a back up plan in case
3) it was very windy and cold at the summit so be prepared to add layers to keep warm
4) on the Corridor Route near Round How is a large bedrock step, perhaps fifteen to twenty feet high (it’s not sheer but it is very steep) that you have to scramble / climb down (not walk or step down) there are plenty of places to put hands and feet. If you take it steady you will be fine but it is a significant challenge particularly if wet. You cannot get around it, if you try to pass it you will put yourself in a very serious danger. It would be easier to climb then descend. If you are in doubt about this route Google it before trying
5) the summit is very stony so walking is tricky
6) leaving the summit heading for Broad Crag is a steep scramble
7) around Broad Cragg and Great End there is a significant boulder field to cross which is hard work. The boulders can be stepped across and they vary in size from small to small car size. This again is a challenge
8) on the corridor route there is a section called Piers Gill, which isn’t too far from the summit. Be careful around here as it’s an accident blackspot when descending the corridor route in bad weather. Again Google this before attempting so you are prepared
Overall a brilliant day with some world beating scenery and one that we would highly recommend with the above caveats
Written 9 September 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alex
London, UK104 contributions
May 2021 • Family
We had a very good experience hiking via Wasdale with our 8 and 10 year old children and 11 month old dog. Total 5hrs with several stops along the way. The trail was easy to follow, steady steep climb and unfortunately cloudy/foggy most of the way, zero views from the top. Suggest to wear layers and hiking boots for all. We had a great day and would def recommend the hikes for families who have some experience walking/hiking.
Written 3 June 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
BOUNDBRIDGE
Hitchin, UK201 contributions
Oct 2021 • Couples
Visited this little hill for a days walk and did not regret one step of it.
There’s not much to be said that hasn’t already been posted on here.
I parked at Seathwaite on the road, there is a car park at the campsite/ farm which if £5 a day a d just a muddy field, so give this a miss.
From the farm entrance the journey begins on the foothills and it becomes more challenging the further you go. When wet, the rocks on the trail become incredibly slippery, so wear proper footwear!
Take plenty of breaks, as the climb becomes steeper and more dicey for the inexperienced hiker.
The views are stunning, almost out of this world.
Be careful on the way down. This is where the most concentration is required. It’s also quite a tiring task, so take your time.
Getting to the top will be a great achievement…unfortunately my phone died just before great end, so no pics after that!
There’s not much to be said that hasn’t already been posted on here.
I parked at Seathwaite on the road, there is a car park at the campsite/ farm which if £5 a day a d just a muddy field, so give this a miss.
From the farm entrance the journey begins on the foothills and it becomes more challenging the further you go. When wet, the rocks on the trail become incredibly slippery, so wear proper footwear!
Take plenty of breaks, as the climb becomes steeper and more dicey for the inexperienced hiker.
The views are stunning, almost out of this world.
Be careful on the way down. This is where the most concentration is required. It’s also quite a tiring task, so take your time.
Getting to the top will be a great achievement…unfortunately my phone died just before great end, so no pics after that!
Written 13 October 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
chrisphilcox
Bexhill-on-Sea, UK15 contributions
Aug 2020
A wonderful way to walk England's highest mountain. Be prepared for steep climbs and around to 6 to 7 hours including breaks top to bottom. We decided to walk from Seathwaite to enjoy the corridor. We went up one way and down another, which was definitely the right thing to do as both completely different walks. On the walk up (go straight up after crossing the little bridge) there is a beautiful lake and views and although not smooth terrain you have around an hour of relatively easy walking. You then have to accept that the last 90 minutes are quite challenging and careful footing is required as there are some points where a slip could very well be the end!! Very difficult to get lost as so many people doing the same walk and there were people of all ages and ability. The scenery of the last hour is breahtaking and keeps you going as the climb becomes quite steep. Once at the top the view is spectacular but i would definitely suggest going on a clear an dry day to one provide an easier walk but also to enjoy the views of the Lakes and a ross to the isle of man. The route back down is quite treacherous for the first hour and as you begin descent it looks like a sheer drop but with care taken it is manageable. there are some large boulders that could cause injury if not respected. However, you then get to enjoy a 2 mile walk down the mountain alongside a beautiful brook and with the car park in sight it keeps you going, although it never seems to get closer. A great sense of achievement when you have finished
Written 28 August 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
alantg1
Cumbria, United Kingdom12 contributions
Nov 2019
Walking in winter needs preparation wind chill minus 13 on the top. Good clothing ,food and drink essential for older walkers, a torch was needed for the last half an hour. A great sense of achievement will attempt it again in 2023 nearly the footsteps of Jos Naylor
Written 12 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sox10
Lowestoft, UK654 contributions
Sept 2021 • Friends
This was completed as part of our national 3 peaks challenge in 24hours, organised by Active Mountaineering. Led by Chris and Nic. This was our second mountain, after Ben Nevis. We started at 20:15, conditions were dark, gusts of up to 40/50mph, mist and rain. We didn't get to see too much due to it being dark dark 20:15 in September. This took us 3hours 42mins to get up and down in.
We had a few stops to layer up, hydrate and eat. Utilising the waterfall to top up water bottles.
We had a few stops to layer up, hydrate and eat. Utilising the waterfall to top up water bottles.
Written 30 October 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
jah1526
Colchester, UK71 contributions
May 2023 • Couples
The climb is arduous and tough in places. Not for the novice or anyone physically unable. Good walking shoes and sticks needed especially for the decent trust me no flip flops. You need to get there early to beat the crowds preferably before 7 am but the views are amazing you get a 360 degree view across the lake district so worth it.
Written 1 June 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
MFC31
London, UK4,002 contributions
Mar 2021 • Couples
The drive into Scafell is just as scenic as the climb and views from the top.
We found the climb moderately tough, as it’s pretty much always heading up. It took us about 3hrs40mins to go up and down, but that included a lunch break of around 25mins at the summit.
We used the National Trust carpark as it’s at the very bottom of the main climb, and is free to use if your members and scan your card. Bring water and a jacket as it’s very windy at the top!
We found the climb moderately tough, as it’s pretty much always heading up. It took us about 3hrs40mins to go up and down, but that included a lunch break of around 25mins at the summit.
We used the National Trust carpark as it’s at the very bottom of the main climb, and is free to use if your members and scan your card. Bring water and a jacket as it’s very windy at the top!
Written 6 May 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Where do you park in the evening when you do the three peaks challenge at Wasdale route?
Written 8 August 2023
Climbing to the summit in mid April, and was wondering what the best clothes to wear? and as it’s our first time what rout is best to take?
Written 3 March 2023
I am trying to gauge how challenging Scafell Pike is compared to other hikes I have done, but I realize conditions are different in different places. I have hiked a bit in the Canadian Rockies: Fairview Mountain (9.2km, 1011m elevation gain), Sentinel Pass (10.9km, 792m gain), Iceline Trail in Yoho (14.2km, 864m) are a few examples with similar distance/elevation to Scafell Pike. I also hiked Ben Vrackie in Scotland a couple years ago (9.2km, 644m). I am comfortable with mild-moderate scrambling, scree and boulder fields, but prefer to avoid highly technical scrambling/climbing. Does anyone with experience think Scafell Pike would pose a greater challenge than what I am used to? I am aware the climate and weather is considerably different in the UK compared to Canada, so any tips would be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much!
Written 5 March 2021
It is not very difficult. Haven’t done any of the hikes you did but it is up to 2 hours walk each way and no technical climbing is involved.
Written 5 March 2021
Is it achievable with a dog and children aged 9 & 15??
Written 30 July 2020
If you are able to think that they could physically then look at the route up. Wasdale route is quite steep but the shortest. Whichever way up it can be a bit disorientating with the climate / clouds. We saw a couple of children similar ages, but know that a dog had to be rescued. Hope this helps.
Written 30 July 2020
Ross S
Milton, Canada
Hi. I climbed Ben Nevis in my 60s. Snowdon in my 70s. Iam 86 now and wish wish climb Scarfel Pike. I am in relatively good condition. Do you consider this a little too ambitious?
Written 5 July 2020
Snowdon and Ben Nevis are both fairly easy climbs and their main ascent routes are all-weather. Scafell is the lowest of the three in terms of elevation but maybe the most difficult. The main reason being that routes to the summit do not follow well defined paths all the way and cross boulder fields which can be difficult. Terribly easy to fall and break a leg. I would advise you against attempting it. But if you are determined to give it a go then check the weather forecast and only make your attempt under mild, dry and clear conditions. Good luck.
Written 6 July 2020
Hi, I am looking to do a walking challenge with my fitness group and wanted guidance about the best route to take with limited scrabbling involved. Any guidance on routes and accommodation for 15 people much appreciated.
Written 27 December 2019
Hi. You may have already completed your walk, if so apologies for my late response. Despite suggestions that the Pike is a "Moderate" walk, I suggest otherwise. I do a lot of walking, both hill walking and on the flat. The Pike IS NOT for those who get out of breath on the flat or going up "moderate" hills. Scarfell is all up! It took me 2 1/2 hrs up and 1 1/2 hrs down, not as quick as some but by no means slow. I have never seen so many people give up and go back down exhausted.
Written 9 March 2020
Has anybody been up recently and if so what was the snow and ice situation?
Written 19 December 2019
No snow according to weather forecast for this week, just rain.
Written 19 December 2019
I’ve climbed to the summit of Scafell Pike many times before and on different routes along with many other mountains in the UK. The question I want to ask is a different type of question than usual about Scafell Pike and I've tried googling and I can’t find the answer. The question is; Why are there two mountains in the Cumbria Lake District with the name Scafell as part or the whole name? The two mountains of course are Scafell Pike and Scafell. And how did that come about and why did this happen with the two highest mountains in the Lake District and the whole of England. It’s not the usual question about climbing Scafell Pike as you can see. Has anyone got the answer or possibly a historian about the names of the mountains in the Lake District, such as these two hopefully might have the answer, as I’ve tried finding out this information in all ways on the Internet including googling, but have sadly failed to find any information about this. Hope someone can help.
Written 22 September 2019
ps : I believe nineteenth century OS maps referred to the two peaks as Sca Fell Higher Top and Sca Fell Lower Top. The point being that they were so close together that they were considered parts of the same mountain.
Written 13 July 2020
We parked at the national trust car park as there are toilets and it is 2.9 miles from the car park to the summit. Its a steep start but eases off and rocky under foot.
Written 15 September 2019
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