NY2603 : Summit Cairn ,Cold Pike

Cold Pike

700m Elevation
46m Prominence
England Country
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NY2603 : Summit Cairn ,Cold Pike

Michael Graham Photo source

Explore routes near Cold Pike

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

Tarn Hows Fast Route

4.1 km ~1h Moderate

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Scafell Pike via Brown Tonge and Hollow Stones

8.1 km ~4h Hard

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Scafell Pike from Seathwaite via the Corridor Route

14.1 km ~7h Hard

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Helvellyn via Striding Edge

11.2 km ~6h Hard

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Route planning notes

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

Wetherlam Circular Route

A scenic and moderately challenging loop that offers stunning views of the surrounding fells.

10.5 km ~4 hours Moderate

Harrison Stickle Route

A steeper approach from the Langdale valley, this route is direct and rewarding, ideal for those looking for a challenge.

7 km ~3 hours Challenging
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Simm Hewitt Nuttall Wainwright Birkett Synge Fellranger

Elevation

700m

2,297 ft

Prominence

46m

Coordinates

54.4226, -3.1376

NY262036

OS Map

89 90

Explorer: OL6N

At the Summit

The summit features a well-constructed stone cairn, making it an ideal spot for a rest and reflection while soaking in the expansive views.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky with some grassy patches and occasional boggy sections. Sturdy footwear is recommended.

Cold Pike is predominantly made of volcanic rock, primarily andesite, which adds to its dramatic crags and rugged terrain. This ancient rock formation provides excellent insights into the geological history of the area.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks including the Great Knott, Bowfell and the Langdale Pikes, as well as expansive views across the valleys.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Cold Pike' likely comes from the Old Norse 'kol' meaning 'cold', a fitting descriptor for the peak especially during winter months.

Historical Significance

Cold Pike has been a beloved choice for hikers for many years, featured in Alfred Wainwright's guides, it embodies the popular accessible beauty of the Lake District.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

The nearest parking is at the Dungeon Ghyll car park in Langdale, which offers limited spaces and is a popular spot for walkers. Arrive early to secure a spot.

Public Transport

Regular buses operate from Windermere and Ambleside to the Langdale Valley. Check local timetables for the most current routes.

Nearby Facilities

There are no facilities directly on Cold Pike, but nearby Ambleside offers a range of cafes, shops, and public toilets. Be sure to grab a piece of cake to refuel!

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Take care with loose rocks and sudden changes in weather which can occur rapidly in mountainous areas. Visibility can drop quickly in fog, so navigation skills are a must.

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 Cold Pike?

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

Are there other walkers around Cold 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 Cold Pike search or of course create your own walk for Cold Pike

Can I organise a walk to Cold 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 Cold 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 Cold 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 Cold 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

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: NY262036

View on OpenStreetMap

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Nearby Hills

Pike of Blisco

703m

Crinkle Crags - Long Top [Second Crinkle]

859m

 Bowfell

Bowfell

903m

Wetherlam

763m

Hard Knott

550m
See 5 more nearby hills