Napes Needle Group Walks | Join a Walk
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Elevation
692m
2,270 ft
Prominence
13m
Coordinates
54.4791, -3.2216
NY209099
OS Map
89 90
Explorer: OL4S OL6N
The summit features a prominent, needle-like rock formation that greets climbers, often adorned with a small cairn at its apex. It's a popular spot for those looking to take a photo that screams adventure!
Napes Needle is primarily composed of volcanic rock, including andesite and basalt, characteristic of the Borrowdale Volcanic Group. Its striking shapes were formed from ancient eruptions and glacial processes, making it a fascinating study for geologists and climbers alike.
From the summit, enjoy jaw-dropping views of Scafell Pike, the highest peak in England, and the picturesque Wastwater, a gem of the Lake District.
The name Napes Needle is thought to derive from 'nape', which means neck, referring to the needle's striking profile at the top of the mountain.
Napes Needle is known for its climbing routes, particularly the iconic Napes Needle climb, which attracts climbers from around the globe. It's a rite of passage for many in the climbing community.
This route begins at Seathwaite (Grid Ref: NY235121), following the path towards Sty Head Pass. From Sty Head Tarn, take the climbers' traverse path that leads towards Great Gable, reaching the base of Napes Needle. This is an iconic scramble and climbing route, known for its stunning views and historical significance as one of the UK's climbing cradles.
This route starts at Honister Pass (Grid Ref: NY225135). Follow the old mining path known as Moses' Trod, which contours around to Great Gable's southern slopes. Continue towards Gavel Neese before taking the climbers' traverse up to Napes Needle. This route offers a mix of historical interest and rugged mountain scenery.
Starting at Wasdale Head (Grid Ref: NY186085), this circular route ascends via Gavel Neese to gain access to the climbers’ traverse towards Napes Needle. After exploring the Needle, continue upwards to summit Great Gable before descending via Beck Head Pass back to Wasdale Head.
Begin at the car park near Bowness Knott in Ennerdale (Grid Ref: NY109153). Follow the valley path along Ennerdale Water before ascending to Windy Gap. From here, traverse Great Gable’s southern slopes to reach Napes Needle. Descend via the same route.
A full traverse of Great Gable starting from Seathwaite (Grid Ref: NY235121). Ascend via Green Gable and Windy Gap, then traverse to Napes Needle for a scrambling detour. Complete the traverse over Great Gable summit, descending via Sty Head Pass to return to Seathwaite.
Wasdale National Trust car park, which has limited spaces; arrive early to secure your spot or risk being left with the sheep.
The nearest bus service links to Wasdale Head from Seascale; inquire for timetables as they may not run daily.
There are no facilities directly at Napes Needle, so ensure to bring enough food and drink. The nearest cafes and toilets can be found in nearby Seascale.
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Some common questions about the hills answered
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Napes Needle through the maps
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 Napes Needle search or of course create your own walk for Napes Needle
Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.
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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.
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.
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Grid Ref: NY209099
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