Scafell Pike from Wasdale Head

Wasdale Head is the main starting point for Scafell Pike and the route used by Three Peaks Challenge groups. Starting from the Lake Head car park, the route ascends via Lingmell Gill and Hollow Stones to England's highest summit at 978 metres.

Route Summary

Distance	6 miles (10km) round trip
Ascent	989 metres (3,245 feet)
Typical Time	4-6 hours round trip
Difficulty	Strenuous, rocky terrain
Start Point	Lake Head car park, Wasdale Head (CA20 1EX)
Grid Reference	NY 182 074

Route Map

Elevation profile of the Scafell Pike route from Wasdale Head

Route Description

From the Lake Head car park at Wasdale Head, follow the footpath ascending alongside Lingmell Gill. After approximately 500 metres, the path crosses the river via stepping stones and continues to ascend on the eastern bank.

The route climbs steadily up Brown Tongue, a broad grassy ridge between Lingmell Gill and Piers Gill. The gradient is consistent but unrelenting. As height is gained, views open up behind you across Wast Water and to the coast.

At Hollow Stones, the terrain becomes more rugged. Large boulders mark the upper section of the route. The path here is less distinct but cairned. Continue ascending through the boulder field towards the summit plateau.

The final section crosses the summit plateau, a broad area of rocks and boulders. In poor visibility, navigation here requires care. The summit is marked by a large stone cairn at 978 metres - the highest point in England.

Key Waypoints

1. Lake Head car park (75m altitude) - Start from the car park, follow signs for Scafell Pike
2. Lingmell Gill crossing (150m) - Cross the river via stepping stones
3. Brown Tongue (200-600m) - Steady ascent on grassy ridge
4. Hollow Stones (600-750m) - Boulder field, path becomes rougher
5. Upper scree and rocks (750-950m) - Steep, rocky terrain, follow cairns
6. Summit plateau (950-978m) - Broad boulder field, navigation required in mist
7. Summit cairn (978m) - England's highest point

Navigation Notes

The route is generally well-cairned but the upper sections can be confusing, particularly in darkness or mist. Many Three Peaks groups climb Scafell Pike at night, making head torches, compass and map essential.

On the descent, take care not to follow paths leading towards Mickledore (the col between Scafell Pike and Scafell) or towards Lingmell. Both are easy mistakes in poor visibility. Keep to the cairned path heading north-west towards Hollow Stones and Brown Tongue.

Download GPX Route

Download GPX Route

Use this GPX file with your GPS device or smartphone navigation app. The route shows both the ascent and descent via the same path from Wasdale Head.

Parking

The Lake Head car park at Wasdale Head has limited spaces and operates on an honesty box system. The postcode is CA20 1EX, grid reference NY 182 074. The car park can fill quickly, particularly on summer weekends.

Full parking information →