Map & Elevation
About this Route
Hall's Fell Ridge is the most direct and arguably most satisfying route up Blencathra, climbing in an almost perfectly straight line from the valley floor near Threlkeld to the summit trig point. This is an out-and-back route, ascending and descending via the same ridge – a choice that makes sense when the ridge itself is the highlight. The lower section follows the beck before the ridge proper begins, at which point the path narrows and the gradient increases. What makes this route notable is its sustained character: rocky scrambling sections interspersed with easier walking, all with growing exposure as height is gained. The rock is often polished smooth by countless boots, which becomes relevant in wet or icy conditions. The upper section involves hands-on scrambling – nothing technically difficult, but enough to keep your attention fully engaged. Descending the same way requires care and a head for heights; the scrambling sections are more committing on the way down. The views north across the Solway Firth and south over Derwentwater justify the effort, though the ridge itself – narrow, airy, and purposeful – is reason enough to be here.
Blencathra by Hall's Fell is the finest way to any mountain-top in the district.
Alfred Wainwright
Route Waypoints
Leave the minor road and pick up the clear path heading east towards Blencathra. The beck is on your right; the ridge rises ahead.
The ridge proper begins here as the path steepens and narrows. The scrambling starts shortly after – easy at first, but increasingly sustained.
The most sustained scrambling section. Polished rock, good holds, and increasing exposure. Take your time and watch foot placement, especially if wet.
Trig point at 868m. The summit plateau is broader than expected. Return via the same ridge; descending the scramble sections requires concentration.
The technical ground is behind you. The path eases as you descend towards the valley alongside the beck.
Final easy section back to the road near Threlkeld. Check your knees – they'll know they've been down a scrambling route.
Essential Tips
The scrambling sections have rock worn smooth by thousands of ascents. In wet conditions this becomes genuinely slippery; in ice or snow the ridge is a serious mountaineering proposition requiring winter equipment and experience. Check the forecast and be honest about conditions underfoot.
Going down the same route means downclimbing the scrambling sections, which feels more exposed than ascending. If you're uncomfortable with this, consider a different descent route – though that requires navigation across the summit plateau and makes this a longer circular walk rather than an out-and-back.
Once committed to the upper ridge there's no easy escape route. The scrambling is graded 1, which is the easiest category, but it's sustained and exposed enough to be unpleasant if you discover you don't enjoy scrambling. Most competent walkers manage it without drama, but know your limits before the point of no return.
The ridge is exposed to westerly winds throughout its length, and the summit plateau offers no shelter. Strong winds make the scrambling sections feel considerably more serious. If the forecast is grim, this isn't the day for it – there are easier routes up Blencathra.