High Pike (Scandale)

High Pike (Scandale)

High Pike rises on Dove Crag’s southern ridge above Ambleside, with crags facing Scandale. This is the Eastern Fells Wainwright, distinct from the High Pike near Caldbeck. It is often crossed on the Fairfield Horseshoe, but can also be the turning point of a shorter outing. Fell setting.

Summit and views

The recorded Wainwright top is 657 metres, marked by a small cairn on rock at NY 37443 08830. Ground 70 metres north-northwest, at NY 37408 08891 on the wall’s western side, is half a metre higher. Summit details.

Keep back from the crag edge. Use the gate if crossing the summit wall. Summit approach.

Look south towards Ambleside and Windermere, or through Scandale Pass towards the Far Eastern Fells. Higher neighbours screen parts of the panorama. Summit views.

From Ambleside, returning the same way

Follow Nook Lane through Nook End Farm and cross Low Sweden Bridge. Take the right-hand path around Sweden Crag’s eastern side, avoiding the direct rock step, then rejoin the ridge wall. Lower approach.

Avoid deep bogs on firm ground, using the wall’s stiles where needed. Bypass Low Pike’s summit rocks on the eastern path to the col, then follow the wall north to High Pike, crossing the intervening wall by its stile. Upper approach.

Return south by the same route. Reuse the Low Pike bypass, then take the eastern bypass around Sweden Crag rather than descending its rock step. Cross Low Sweden Bridge and follow Nook Lane back through the farm to Ambleside. Valley return.

Geology

The ridge belongs to the Esk Pike Sandstone Formation within the Borrowdale Volcanic Group. These sedimentary beds include mudstone and siltstone made from reworked volcanic material, alongside sandstone and tuff. Local geology; formation description.

Access and preparation

Rydal Road car park in Ambleside is a paid starting option. Check the current tariff and leave enough time for the return. Council parking information.

Public toilets are listed at Rydal Road car park. Toilet locations.

For a car-free visit, plan your journey to Ambleside and check current timetables and the last service home before travelling.

This is a strenuous fell walk on rocky and grassy paths with deep bogs in places. Carry a detailed map and allow time for careful route-finding around the outcrops. Terrain guidance.

Check the mountain forecast, carry drinking water and suitable clothing, and leave your plan with someone. Finish before dark. Avoid exposed ground in strong winds or storms; snow and ice call for winter skills and equipment. Be prepared to turn back. Walking safety.