Map & Elevation
About this Route
This GPX takes the direct route from Cinderdale to Grasmoor by Lad Hows and returns the same way. It is 5.7 km long with about 739 m of ascent, which makes it one of the steepest short walks in the Lake District. Allow 4 to 5½ hours and expect a sustained climb with very little level ground.
From the small parking area beside Crummock Water, cross the lower pasture and climb onto the nose of Lad Hows. The route rises directly above Cinderdale Beck, first on grass and then on an increasingly worn, stony path. Higher up, the ridge steepens and becomes rougher around rock outcrops before easing onto Grasmoor's broad summit plateau. Continue to the main summit cairn and stone shelter at 852 m, taking care not to wander towards the crags overlooking Rannerdale and Crummock Water.
Descend by exactly the same Lad Hows ridge. This GPX does not continue to Wandope, Whiteless Pike or Whiteside. The outward climb is physically demanding, but the descent is often the harder part: grass, loose stones and short rocky steps are slippery when wet. Use poles if they suit you, leave plenty of space between walkers, and avoid the route in ice, very strong wind or low cloud unless properly equipped.
The short mileage hides a hard climb; Lad Hows rises from Crummock Water without giving much back.
TrailTrack
Route Waypoints
Start from the small roadside parking area beside Crummock Water. Space is limited; do not block the road, gates or farm access.
Follow the public path across grazing land towards Lad Hows. Close gates and keep dogs controlled around livestock.
Begin the direct ridge climb. Look back and fix the position of the field exit for the return.
Climb steep grass above Cinderdale Beck. Keep to the worn crest rather than cutting onto eroded side slopes.
The path becomes rougher among stones and small outcrops. Hands may help with balance on a few steep steps.
The angle begins to ease onto broader ground. In mist, take a bearing towards the main summit rather than following stray cairns.
Reach the cairn and stone shelter at 852 m. Stop here and return; Wandope and Whiteside are outside this GPX.
Retrace Lad Hows carefully. Slow down on loose stones and wet grass, then follow the field path to the road.
Follow the plateau path east to the summit shelter and cairn at 852 m. Paths continuing beyond lead towards Wandope and Crag Hill.
Return to the western plateau edge, descend Grasmoor End carefully and follow Lad Hows back to the roadside parking.
Essential Tips
Lad Hows is relentlessly steep. Allow almost as much time to descend as to climb and avoid rushing tired legs.
Grass and rock become extremely slippery. Choose another route if ice, saturated ground or strong gusts are forecast.
The plateau has steep ground above Rannerdale and Crummock Water. In cloud, navigate directly to the Lad Hows descent.
Paths towards Wandope and Whiteside lead into longer rounds. This GPX is the direct Cinderdale out-and-back.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to climb Grasmoor from Cinderdale Common?
The estimated walking time is 2 hours 25 minutes for the 6 km route. However, the steep west face and loose terrain mean you should allow extra time, and the descent requires as much care and attention as the ascent.
Is the Grasmoor west face route dangerous?
It's very steep with loose scree and broken rock, so it's graded as strenuous. You should avoid it entirely in wet, icy, or snowy conditions, and walkers need to stay well apart to avoid dislodging stones onto people below.
Where do I park for the Grasmoor Lad Hows route?
There's roadside parking at Cinderdale Common on the B5289, but space is limited. Make sure you don't block the road, gates, or passing places, and have a backup plan if it's full.