Miterdale, Illgill Head, and Whin Rigg Circular Walk

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Hard
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
6.5-9h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
19.8 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
1,034 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead
Miterdale Illgill Head and Whin Rigg Circular Walk

The Miterdale, Illgill Head, and Whin Rigg Circular Walk is a lengthy adventure that will take you from the village of Nether Wasdale to summit several fells. While out on this rugged trail, you will traverse stretches of open terrain and walk the edges of Burnmoor Tarn before climbing uphill to the summit of Illgill Head and Whin Rigg. Here, you will experience beautiful views of the surrounding Lake District terrain, with the vast expanse of Wast Water stretching out to the north.

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Route Description for Miterdale, Illgill Head, and Whin Rigg Circular Walk

Walking the Miterdale, Illgill Head, and Whin Rigg Circular is a great excursion in the Lake District if you are looking for a bit of a rugged trail with some breathtaking views overlooking some scenic lakes. The route sets out from the village of Nether Wasdale and heads to the southeast, traversing some open farmland to climb uphill through the peaceful Miterdale Forest. From here, the trail will turn to the northeast along the River Mite before skirting around the calm shores of Burnmoor Tarn. After taking in the views of the charming lake, you will climb uphill and traverse the rugged summits of Illgill Head and Whin Rigg, while enjoying some nice views over Wast Water and the surrounding Lake District landscape.

Getting to the Miterdale, Illgill Head, and Whin Rigg Circular Walk Trailhead

To reach the trailhead for the Miterdale, Illgill Head, and Whin Rigg Circular Walk from the Old Post Office Campsite in Santon Bridge, drive north for 3.1 km and make a left turn. COntinue on for 0.5 km, where you will find the starting point of the walk.

Route Information

  • When to do

    March-November

  • Backcountry Campsites

    Church Stile Farm Campsite

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    No

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Low

  • Route Type

    Lollipop

Miterdale, Illgill Head, and Whin Rigg Circular Walk Elevation Graph

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Miterdale, Illgill Head, and Whin Rigg Circular Walk Reviews

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