NY2404 : The Bad Step

Crinkle Crags - Long Top [Second Crinkle]

859m Elevation
139m Prominence
England Country
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NY2404 : The Bad Step

Ian Greig Photo source

Explore routes near Crinkle Crags - Long Top [Second Crinkle]

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

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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Tarn Hows Fast Route

4.1 km ~1h Moderate

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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.

The Great Langdale Circuit

This classic route starts at the Old Dungeon Ghyll in Great Langdale. Ascend via Oxendale to reach the Band, a prominent ridge leading to Three Tarns. From here, follow the craggy path to the summit of Crinkle Crags - Long Top [Second Crinkle]. Descend via the same route or take the more gradual descent through Browney Gill. This route provides stunning views of Bowfell and the Langdale Pikes.

11.5 km ~5.5 hours Moderate

Crinkle Crags via Cold Pike

Starting from the Wrynose Pass, this route takes you over Cold Pike before continuing along the craggy ridge to the summit of Crinkle Crags - Long Top [Second Crinkle]. The terrain is rocky and undulating, offering a true mountain experience. Descend via the Band into Great Langdale for a satisfying circular route.

10 km ~5 hours Moderate

Bowfell and Crinkle Crags Traverse

A demanding but rewarding route that starts from the Old Dungeon Ghyll in Great Langdale. Ascend via the Band and Three Tarns, summiting Bowfell first before traversing the ridge to Crinkle Crags - Long Top [Second Crinkle]. Descend via Browney Gill or return via the Band for a full day in the fells.

14 km ~7 hours Hard

Crinkle Crags and Pike of Blisco Loop

This route begins at the Wrynose Pass and takes in both Pike of Blisco and Crinkle Crags - Long Top [Second Crinkle]. After summiting Pike of Blisco, continue along the ridge to Crinkle Crags, tackling the famous 'Bad Step' along the way. Descend to Oxendale and return to your starting point.

12 km ~6 hours Hard

Eskdale to Crinkle Crags

This less-travelled route starts at Brotherilkeld in Eskdale and follows the River Esk upstream before ascending to the summit of Crinkle Crags - Long Top [Second Crinkle] via Three Tarns. Descend by retracing your steps or take a longer loop via Great Moss for an adventurous day out.

13 km ~6.5 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Hump Simm Hewitt Nuttall Wainwright Birkett High Hills of Britain Synge Fellranger

Elevation

859m

2,818 ft

Prominence

139m

Coordinates

54.4337, -3.1598

NY248048

OS Map

89 90

Explorer: OL6N

At the Summit

The summit features a prominent cairn that marks the highest point, alongside several rocky outcrops offering platform views over the fells.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky with steep scree slopes and grassy patches interspersed with boulders and occasional boggy sections.

The Crinkle Crags are primarily composed of volcanic rock, with interesting slate formations that speak to the geological history of the region. The rugged terrain is a textbook example of glacial erosion, creating sharp ridges and deep valleys.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, hikers can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding Lake District, including Bowfell, Scafell Pike, and the distant shimmering waters of Windermere on a clear day.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Crinkle Crags' derives from the old English word for 'wrinkle', indicative of the mountain's rugged appearance with deep gullies and sharp ridges.

Historical Significance

Crinkle Crags has been a favourite among hikers and climbers since the Victorian era, often frequented by adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel has a car park. For those looking to save a quid, there is limited roadside parking available but expect it to fill up quickly during peak times.

Public Transport

The nearest bus stop is in Great Langdale, serviced by the Number 516 bus from Ambleside during seasonal times.

Nearby Facilities

Facilities at the Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel include a café, toilets, and a pub. For more extensive facilities like shops and restaurants, head to Ambleside.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Loose rocks, steep drops, sudden weather changes, and potentially boggy areas in the lower sections.

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 Crinkle Crags - Long Top [Second Crinkle]?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Crinkle Crags - Long Top [Second Crinkle] through the maps

Are there other walkers around Crinkle Crags - Long Top [Second Crinkle]?

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 Crinkle Crags - Long Top [Second Crinkle] search or of course create your own walk for Crinkle Crags - Long Top [Second Crinkle]

Can I organise a walk to Crinkle Crags - Long Top [Second Crinkle]?

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 Crinkle Crags - Long Top [Second Crinkle].

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 Crinkle Crags - Long Top [Second Crinkle]?

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 Crinkle Crags - Long Top [Second Crinkle] here

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

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Location

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: NY248048

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Nearby Hills

Bowfell

Bowfell

903m

 Esk Pike

Esk Pike

885m

Hard Knott

550m

Pike of Blisco

703m

Glaramara

783m
See 5 more nearby hills