Map & Elevation
About this Route
This GPX climbs the Old Man of Coniston from the high Walna Scar Road car park by the quarry path and Low Water, returning the same way. It covers 5.1 km with about 562 m of ascent and usually takes 3 to 4½ hours. The route is short, but the old workings, stone steps and steep final zigzags make it a proper fell walk.
Leave the car park on the track heading north and follow it into the historic slate-quarry landscape. Abandoned buildings, spoil and deep workings sit close to the path, so stay on the established line. The route climbs past the quarry to Low Water, a tarn beneath the eastern face of the fell. From here, a pitched and stony path zigzags steeply to the summit cairn and platform at 802 m. The views over Coniston Water are extensive in clear weather.
Return through Low Water and the quarry by the same path. This GPX does not complete the Goat's Water, Dow Crag or Walna Scar circuit. The quarry route can be wet, loose and confusing in mist, with dangerous drops into old workings. Keep outside fenced areas, do not enter tunnels and allow plenty of time for the steep descent.
The route passes through disused quarry workings, giving a clear sense of Coniston's slate-mining past.
The Lake District guide
Route Waypoints
Start from the high fell car park at the end of the surfaced lane. Check current access and parking arrangements before driving up.
Take the track to the right or north from the car park, following signs for the Old Man.
Pass ruined buildings and spoil. Stay on the path and keep away from shafts, tunnels and unstable edges.
Climb rough stone steps through the workings. Water and loose slate make the surface slippery.
Reach the tarn beneath the summit slope. This is the last clear landmark before the steep zigzags.
Climb the pitched path above Low Water. Keep to the maintained line rather than loose shortcuts.
Reach the cairn and platform at 802 m. Stop here; Goat's Water and Dow Crag are outside this GPX.
Retrace Low Water and the quarry path carefully to the high car park.
Essential Tips
Old shafts, tunnels and spoil are unstable. Keep to the public path and obey every fence or warning sign.
The lane to Walna Scar car park is narrow and arrangements can change. Confirm current parking information before travelling.
Cutting the summit zigzags causes erosion and puts walkers below at risk from falling stones.
The Goat's Water and Dow Crag paths form separate circuits. This GPX returns through Low Water.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to climb the Old Man of Coniston from Walna Scar?
It usually takes 3 to 4½ hours for the round trip. The route covers 5.3 km with 554 m of ascent, so allow plenty of time especially for the steep descent back through the quarry.
Is the Old Man of Coniston suitable for beginners?
Not really. The route is graded strenuous and includes old quarry workings with dangerous drops, steep stone steps, and zigzags that can be wet and slippery. It's a proper fell walk, not a gentle ramble.
Is it safe to explore the old quarry tunnels on the Old Man of Coniston?
No, absolutely not. The old shafts, tunnels and spoil are unstable. Keep to the public path, stay outside all fenced areas, and obey every warning sign.