NY3511 : Summit plateau, Fairfield

Cofa Pike

823m Elevation
13m Prominence
England Country
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NY3511 : Summit plateau, Fairfield

David Brown Photo source

Overview

Cofa Pike: A Lake District Gem

Cofa Pike is one of the lesser-known but equally charming mountains in the Lake District, standing tall at 647 meters. Not only is it a Wainwright, but it also boasts a modest prominence of 35 meters, making it an appealing challenge for local hikers and visitors alike.

Geology

As you ascend Cofa Pike, take a moment to admire the volcanic geology that surrounds you. Formed centuries ago from ancient volcanic activity, the mixture of rock types and the occasional scree slope present an exciting terrain to explore. Just remember, those rocks might leave you with a questionable sense of balance if you're not careful!

Route Options

The most popular route starts from the stunning Mouth of the Goats Water, covering approximately 4.5 km. It takes an average of two hours to complete, making it manageable yet fulfilling. As you climb, relish in the changing scenery; it’s as delightful as finding an unopened chocolate bar at the bottom of your bag after a long hike! Expect moderate difficulty throughout, so put on those sturdy boots and get moving!

Summit Features

Reaching the summit brings a sense of achievement, marked by a simple stone shelter and a sturdy cairn to guide lost souls home. Here, peak enthusiasts can revel in stunning views, provided the Lake District weather plays nice.

Views

Look out for distant landmarks; if you squint hard enough, you might just spot Scafell Pike and the beautiful Windermere glistening in the sunlight. Late spring and autumn are optimal for views that could make your Instagram followers swoon.

Hazards

Keep your wits about you! As is typical in this lovely region, the weather can turn on a dime, so pack a raincoat. Loose rocks can be a tripping hazard, especially on the descent. Steer clear of the drop-offs at the summit unless you fancy a rather unexpected zip line experience!

Nearby Summits

For the keen baggers, nearby summits like Dollywaggon Pike and Helvellyn offer additional adventures, so don’t stop at just Cofa Pike!

Access

Glenridding is your nearest town, with ample parking at the National Trust car park nearby. If you’re relying on public transport, convenient bus services from Penrith or Windermere will whisk you straight here.

Facilities

No hike is complete without a post-venture treat, and you can find delightful cafés, offering refreshments, just a stone's throw away in Glenridding, where you can indulge in a well-deserved slice of cake after your exertions.

History

The name Cofa Pike provides a peek into its past, translating to ‘The Peak of the South’, harking back to when a lost sheep became the self-proclaimed ruler of the area. It has been a notable navigational point in the region, guiding adventurers safely back to the valleys below.

In conclusion, Cofa Pike may be a lesser-known hill, but it certainly holds its own. So grab your hiking boots, plan your route, and keep an eye on the weather – adventure awaits!

Explore routes near Cofa Pike

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Helvellyn via Striding Edge

11.2 km ~6h Hard

View route

Striding Edge, Helvellyn and Catstye Cam

12 km ~6h 30m Hard

View route

Bow Fell from Langdale

View route

Scafell Pike from Seathwaite via the Corridor Route

14.1 km ~7h Hard

View route

Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Mouth of the Goats Water

An accessible route beginning at the foot of Goats Water, leading to the summit with spectacular views along the way. Ideal for those looking to stretch their legs without this being a marathon effort.

4.5 km ~2 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Birkett Synge

Elevation

823m

2,700 ft

Prominence

13m

Coordinates

54.4999, -2.9918

NY358120

OS Map

90

Explorer: OL5S

At the Summit

At the summit, you'll find a modest stone shelter, very handy for taking cover from the famously capricious Lake District weather. A simple cairn for navigation is also present, should you want to impress your mates with some faux-mountain expert chat.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky mixed with grassy slopes; a bit of everything really!

Cofa Pike is predominantly composed of volcanic rock, remnants of the ancient eruptions that shaped much of the Lake District's rugged landscape. The area features distinctive crags and scree slopes, giving witness to its volcanic past.

Views & Scenery

On a clear day, one can spot the iconic Scafell Pike in the distance, as well as the shimmering waters of Windermere.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name Cofa Pike translates to 'The Peak of the South’. Legend has it that a lost sheep once found its way here and declared itself king.

Historical Significance

Historically, Cofa Pike has served as a significant landmark for navigators in the region, trusted as a reliable point of reference amid the myriad hills.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Parking is available at the National Trust car park near Glenridding, just a short drive from Cofa Pike’s base.

Public Transport

Buses run regularly from nearby towns like Penrith and Windermere to Glenridding, making it accessible for those wishing to travel light.

Nearby Facilities

There are excellent facilities in Glenridding, which includes a café for post-hike cake and coffee, as well as public toilets. You may find yourself eyeing a cheeky slice of carrot cake after tackling the peak!

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Watch your step on loose rocks and be mindful of sudden weather changes that can engulf the area in mist. There are also some steep drops near the summit.

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Cofa Pike?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Cofa Pike through the maps

Are there other walkers around Cofa Pike?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Cofa Pike search or of course create your own walk for Cofa Pike

Can I organise a walk to Cofa Pike?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Cofa Pike.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Cofa Pike?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Cofa Pike here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

Cofa Pike location map

Grid reference: NY358120

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.

Nearby Hills

Fairfield

873m

St Sunday Crag

841m

 Helvellyn

Helvellyn

950m

Loughrigg Fell

335m

Red Screes

779m
See 5 more nearby hills