Map & Elevation
About this Route
Scafell Pike (978m) is England's highest mountain, and the Wasdale Head approach via the Mountain Path is the classic and most direct ascent. It begins from one of England's most remote and dramatic valleys — a narrow lane-end of whitewashed farmhouses, a tiny church, and the Wasdale Head Inn, which has been welcoming walkers since the sport of climbing was born.
The route follows the path east alongside Lingmell Gill before ascending Brown Tongue — a long, broad grassy spur — into the dramatic cwm of Hollow Stones. Above Hollow Stones, the path bears north-east to the Lingmell shoulder before turning south-east across the upper boulder field to the summit. At the Hollow Stones fork, stay right: the left fork leads toward Mickledore and Scafell, a different mountain entirely. On a clear day, the summit view extends to the Isle of Man, Wales, Ireland, and the full sweep of the Lakeland fells.
"I have walked to the top of Scafell Pike many times, and it never disappoints."
— Alfred Wainwright
Route Waypoints
Start from the National Trust car park. Head east past the Wasdale Head Inn and the tiny St Olaf’s Church — said to be the smallest church in England — and follow the path alongside Lingmell Gill.
The long, broad grassy spur rising south-east from the valley floor. One of the finest approach ridges in the Lakes. The gradient is steady rather than steep and the views of Wasdale and Great Gable build steadily behind you.
The dramatic open cwm beneath the great cliffs of Scafell and Scafell Pike. At the fork keep RIGHT — the path north-east toward the Lingmell shoulder is the Mountain Path to Scafell Pike. The left fork toward Mickledore leads to Scafell, a different summit.
The path reaches the broad shoulder between Lingmell (807m) and Scafell Pike at around 760m. From here it turns south-east, and the summit comes into view above the boulder field. The final section is rough and trackless.
England’s highest point. Large summit cairn and trig point. Return by the same path — in mist, navigate carefully off the summit plateau before descending.
Essential Tips
The fork in Hollow Stones is a classic navigation mistake. The left path goes to Mickledore and Scafell — a completely different summit. The Mountain Path to Scafell Pike keeps right, heading north-east toward the Lingmell shoulder.
The Wasdale Head NT car park fills quickly on summer weekends. A 7am start gets you on the summit before the crowds, avoids the midday heat on the boulder field, and gives plenty of daylight margin for the return.
The upper mountain is a loose boulder field with no maintained path. Stiff-soled walking boots are essential — this is ankle-breaking territory in trainers.
The upper section above Hollow Stones is unmarked and disorienting in mist. Carry a 1:25,000 OS map and compass and know your bearing before you leave the valley.