Scafell Pike, nestled in the heart of the Lake District, proudly claims the title of England’s highest peak at 978 metres (3,209 feet). Starting from Wasdale Head, the most popular and direct route, this hike offers a rewarding challenge and a front-row seat to some of the most dramatic and awe-inspiring landscapes in the UK. Whether you’re a seasoned climber or taking on your first big mountain, the trail from Wasdale Head is an unforgettable journey through rugged terrain, serene valleys, and sweeping views that stretch for miles.
Did You Know?
Scafell Pike was donated to the National Trust in 1919 by Lord Leconfield as a war memorial to honour those who fought in World War I.
You can download the National Trust trail guide for free, here: TRAIL GUIDE
Starting Point: NY 187 088 Wasdale Head carpark
There's plenty of parking on quieter days in the National Trust carpark and also the carpark next to Wasdale Head Inn. If you need any last-minute emergency supplies or kit, then the Barn Door is a superb little gear shop, filled with everything you need for a day in the mountains! There are toilets near both carparks. Once parked, head along the road- away from the pub, towards the finger-post sign for Scafell Pike just beyond the small barn . As you walk through the sheep field, you'll come to a small bridge.
The Bridge: NY 189 082
Enjoy the stream as you cross this bridge. The path continues through a gate and up onto the hillside. The path here is clearly defined and rocky. Watch your step on the loose stones.
The lonely tree: NY 189 077
After a steady ascent, you'll spot a lonely tree normally surrounded by sheep. A great place to take a breather before you continue up hill. From here, on a good weather day, you'll have beautiful views of Wast Water ahead. The path stays rocky and gets slightly steeper until you come to a big left bend. This section gets steeper now that you are in the valley heading up the mountain.
Lingmell Gill Crossing: NY 195 074
You'll be ready for a break when you reach Lingmell Gill crossing. Fill up your water bottle from the fresh stream that flows down from Lingmell. In wet weather, this stream can be very fast-flowing and deep, so be sure to take extra care on the large stones as you cross. The path continues on the other side; this section is quite a push as you arrive at the stone staircase of Brown Tongue. It can feel like the stairs are never ending, but take a few rest stops and ensure you look back at the views whilst you take a breather. Once at the top, you'll see a cairn which begins your trek through the boulder field of Hollow Stones. Continue up to the steeper section where the path forms- tight zigzags up to a big right bend at the saddle. On a clear day, you can see Keswick from here.
The cairn: NY 214 073
As you reach the steepest section of this route, you'll make your way up quite a lose-scree ascent. This section is arduous but stick with it, you'll contour the mountain and continue up to a much flatter section- you're very near the top now! Look out for the big cairn, especially in poor visibility as this will be a useful way marker both for ascent and descent. Here, the path is much flatter and you're on the home straight!
Reaching the summit: NY 215 072
It will feel amazing when you see the summit ahead, as you approach, you'll spot the trig point and a large cairn marks the summit. The cairn has a plaque that commemorates the men of the Lake District who died in World War I. Well done, you've reached the highest point in England!
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