Carl Side

Carl Side

Carl Side is a 746.8-metre Wainwright beside Skiddaw. Its summit is a distinct destination, whether reached from Millbeck or as part of a day along the ridge over Ullock Pike and Long Side. Summit data, from the Database of British and Irish Hills via OpenFell.

Routes and returns

From High Side, reach Ling How through Southerndale, then follow the ridge over Ullock Pike and Long Side to Carl Side. Return over the same summits and retrace the approach. The rocky step below Ullock Pike needs care in both directions. Route outline.

Millbeck gives a more direct ascent through White Stones to Carl Side. Returning by the ascent path brings you back to the same village. A descent via Long Doors and Dodd Wood finishes elsewhere unless you have planned the connecting paths or onward transport. Millbeck and Dodd Wood account.

A circuit from Scarness Road End (NY 234 293) climbs Ullock Pike and Long Side, then crosses Carl Side to White Stones and Long Doors. Dodd is an optional out-and-back from the col. Return through the Skill Beck valley and woodland paths north to the starting area. Circuit description.

The continuation from Carl Side col to Skiddaw is very steep and loose. Plan its return separately.

Rock and landscape

British Geological Survey mapping places Loweswater Formation rocks at Carl Side. These are sedimentary rocks of the Skiddaw Group, including quartz-rich sandstone with siltstone and mudstone. The pale outcrop at White Stones is associated with quartz and baryte mineralisation along a fault. BGS memoir.

Summit and views

The small summit cairn overlooks Derwentwater and the Borrowdale fells to the south, while Skiddaw rises close by. The northern ridge brings additional views across Bassenthwaite Lake and into Southerndale. Cloud can remove these views entirely.

Access and facilities

Dodd Wood has a paid car park, toilets and a café on the A591 opposite Mirehouse. It is a useful western access point, but is not the High Side start described above. Check the current bus timetable and the café's opening hours before travelling. Forestry England visitor information.

Before setting out

Choose a route that matches the weather and the group's experience. Carry a map and navigation equipment, warm and waterproof clothing, food and water. Allow enough daylight for the descent and tell someone your plan. Snow or ice changes the demands considerably; turn back if conditions exceed your skills. These outlines do not replace a detailed map. National Park safety advice.