Scafell Pike - which route to take?
There are quite a few different routes to the summit of England’s highest mountain, Scafell Pike, and you can start the journey from several different valleys. For our guided walks we focus on two locations, Wasdale and Seathwaite, the two most popular starting points for an ascent. But which one should you choose and what are the differences in the routes?
Seathwaite
A farm at the end of Borrowdale, Seathwaite is easily accessible from Keswick. Our route is a circular walk, passing Styhead Tarn and progressing along the ‘corridor route’ to the summit. From here we head over the Scafell plateau to Esk Hause and back down to Seathwaite via Grains Gill.
Why choose Seathwaite?
A circular walk, meaning you see more of the area.
Sights such as Styhead tarn and upper Borrowdale.
A quieter route.
More accessible starting point.
A crossing of the Scafell plateau, a major feature of which Scafell Pike is the summit.
Wasdale
A dramatic valley in the south-west of the Lake District, Wasdale is surrounded by giant peaks and is an impressive place to visit. From the head of the valley we head up the path to Lingmell col, from where we head onto Scafell Pike’s summit. The descent is usually via the same way, unless the group wants a little extension and we can also head to the summit of Lingmell.
Why choose Wasdale?
The shortest route to the top.
Views down into Wasdale including over England’s deepest lake, Wastwater.
An out-and-back, so no unexpected surprises on the way down.
Sights such as the impressive crags of Scafell.
View our day walks from Wasdale...
You can view our full schedule of guided day walks on Scafell Pike including our Sunrise walks and moonlight walks from our dedicated Scafell Pike page....