Scafell Pike Circular Walk from Wasdale Head

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.
4.5-6.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
11.6 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.
959 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Be the first to add a review!
Directions to Trailhead
Scafell Pike Circular Walk from Wasdale Head

While it may be a bit on the tough side, the Scafell Pike Circular Walk is a fantastic adventure that will expose you to some of the best views in the Lake District. The route will see you walk through the corridor along Lingmell Beck before climbing up the steep and rocky hillside of Scafell Pike for a breathtaking sightline over Wast Water and the surrounding fells. You won’t want to miss out on this must-do journey

Download the 10Adventures App

View Scafell Pike Circular Walk from Wasdale Head on Map

View Map

Join our newsletter

Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers

Route Description for Scafell Pike Circular Walk from Wasdale Head

Walking the Scafell Pike Circular from Wasdale Head is a popular and challenging activity due to the physically hard, but not technical nature of the route and the amazing views of the surrounding landscape. The trail will take you from the car park on a course to the northeast that will take you through a corridor alongside the winding waters of Lingmell Beck. From here, you will turn to the south to traverse the lower slopes of Great End, working your way up the steep and rocky terrain until you arrive at the summit viewpoint atop Scafell Pike. After enjoying the stunning views overlooking the surrounding mountain peaks and Wast Water below, follow the path down the steep hillside to the west to eventually arrive back at the starting point of the walk.

Getting to the Scafell Pike Circular Walk from Wasdale Head Trailhead

To reach the Scafell Pike Circular Walk car park from Nether Wasdale, drive east for 0.5 km and turn left to continue on for another 8.0 km. You will find the car park on the right.

Route Information

  • When to do

    March-October

  • Backcountry Campsites

    Wasdale Head Campsite

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Circuit

Scafell Pike Circular Walk from Wasdale Head Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

Scafell Pike Circular Walk from Wasdale Head Reviews

Add a comment

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Nearby Trails

Nearby Regions

Get travel inspiration and discounts

Join our weekly travel newsletter