Map & Elevation
About this Route
This GPX climbs Pike of Blisco from Great Langdale by the Wall End road and Redacre Gill path, returning the same way. It covers 5.9 km with about 649 m of ascent and usually takes 3½ to 5 hours. The road provides an easy start, but the mountain path is steep, rough and includes short hands-on rock steps near the summit.
Follow the road west towards Wall End, passing the campsite and farm access. Beyond the road bends, take the good path climbing broadly beside Redacre Gill. It rises through bracken and grass before becoming rockier above. Higher up, the path weaves between outcrops and tackles a few easy scrambling steps to reach the twin-cairned summit area at 705 m. In cloud, the broad upper ground and neighbouring rocky tops can be confusing.
Return by the same Redacre Gill path and road. This GPX does not descend to Red Tarn or continue onto Crinkle Crags. The direct upper route is awkward when wet or icy, and the descent requires more care than the climb. Keep to the established path, avoid loose shortcuts and leave enough daylight for the road walk back.
At the road zigzag, a good path leads up broadly beside Redacre Gill.
UKHillwalking
Route Waypoints
Start from the approved parking area and take the road towards Wall End. Keep campsite, farm and emergency access clear.
Walk past the campsite on the narrow lane. Face traffic where appropriate and step aside for vehicles.
At the road zigzag, leave on the good uphill path broadly following Redacre Gill.
Climb through grass and bracken. Wet stones and drainage channels cross the path.
The route steepens among rock outcrops. Look back to identify the descent line.
Use the easiest worn line through short hands-on steps. Avoid polished slabs when wet.
Reach the summit area at 705 m. Stop here rather than continuing towards Red Tarn.
Retrace Redacre Gill to Wall End and follow the road back to the start.
Essential Tips
That path leads towards Crinkle Crags and a different descent. This GPX returns beside Redacre Gill.
Hands are useful near the summit. Choose another day if rock is icy or the group is uncomfortable.
The Wall End road is narrow and used by residents, farms and campsite traffic. Walk visibly and step aside early.
Face into awkward steps if needed and keep space between walkers to avoid dislodging stones.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to climb Pike of Blisco from Old Dungeon Ghyll?
It usually takes 3½ to 5 hours for the full walk, though the calculated time using Naismith's Rule is around 2h 15m. The route covers 6.2 km with 602 m of ascent, returning the same way.
Do you need to scramble to get to the top of Pike of Blisco?
Yes, there are short hands-on rock steps near the summit. They're manageable using the easiest worn line, but avoid them if the rock is icy or if anyone in your group isn't comfortable with basic scrambling.
Where do I turn off the road to start climbing Pike of Blisco?
At around 1.4 km, look for a road zigzag where a good uphill path leaves the lane and climbs broadly beside Redacre Gill. Before that, you'll walk past the campsite on the narrow Wall End road.