Piers Gill and Great Gable as backdrop - Scafell Pike Hiking Routes
Scafell Pike Hiking Routes - 1 of the finest
Last week we were contacted by by Anna who was keen to summit Scafell Pike with a group of family and friends. They were all in training for climbing to the roof of Africa, Kilimanjaro. Having already ascended Snowdon and growing up close to the mountains in Poland, Anna knew a fair amount about the mountains but had heard Scafell Pike needed plenty of respect. So called us to help.
The team of 4 were booked to stay at the perfectly positioned Burnthwaite Farm B&B which is nestled in the upper reaches of the Wasdale valley in a secluded and beautiful spot. I’d say this is the perfect place for walkers to stay when in the area. A warm welcome, good breakfasts and packed lunches all add to the tremendous package on offer.
With Burnthwaite as our starting point and a team who would no doubt relish the extra challenge and remoteness of a quieter route. We set out on the Moses Trod path that runs alongside Lingmell Beck. This would take us deep into Wasdale and well away from the crowds. The path is less trodden, so can be tricky to follow at times, but generally following the watercourse is okay.
We arrived at a rock step of about 15m in height, this requires hands on rock to ensure a safe passage. Not all in the group were familiar with moving over rocky terrain but I was always on hand to help and guide. Soon we were all safely at the top and back on the increasingly dramatic path that by now was following alongside Piers Gill.
For those who don’t know, Piers Gill is a deep and dramatic gash in the mountain that splits Lingmell from Scafell Pike. It’s depths should only be explored by those suitably equipped and experienced and it is certainly not a place for walkers. Thankfully the path allows wonderful views into the ravine without ever venturing into it.
Soon we were to join The Corridor Route and this is where we came across the first walkers we’d seen so far today. By now there was also a small amount of snow underfoot, all adding to the sense of adventure and making for a real winter wonderland. From here up to Lingmell Col the ascent is gradual, but then it all goes steep again for the final blast up to the summit. Now we were mixed in with the main swathe of walkers who had been ascending directly from Wasdale Head and the path was busy, as was the summit when we arrived.
Final steps to the summit - Scafell Pike Hiking Routes
I’d briefed my team that we would likely not be able to stop for lunch at the top due to the intense cold. However, we were able to find shelter from the wind and with the sun coming out from time to time, we were indeed able to stay on the summit for about 15 minutes and have lunch. The views were sublime, all of Lakeland with its winter coat on. Oh I do love this place.
Winter on the summit - Scafell Pike Hiking Routes
We began our descent towards Lingmell Col and with the path still being busy I advised my team that we could take an alternative and much quieter route back down to the valley. All were in favour of this, so we aimed for the slopes of Lingmell and almost instantly left the crowds behind whilst enjoying increasingly fantastic views.
The team - Scafell Pike Hiking Routes - thanks to Max for the photo
Back in the valley and there was much chatter about what drinks might be in order at The Wasdale Head Inn - I bid farewell to this amazing team at The Green and I’m fairly confident they headed straight to the pub for that well deserved beer.
Top effort all round. What a great day out in the mountains.
Are you considering walking up Scafell Pike? If so why not consider hiring a local guide to help plan the most appropriate route for you and show you the mountain and the surrounding area. We’d be delighted to help if we can so please do get in touch.