NY2704 : Approaching the Summit

Pike of Blisco

703m Elevation
177m Prominence
England Country
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NY2704 : Approaching the Summit

Mick Garratt Photo source

Explore routes near Pike of Blisco

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 from Seathwaite via the Corridor Route

14.1 km ~7h Hard

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Scafell Pike via Brown Tonge and Hollow Stones

8.1 km ~4h 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.

Oxendale and Red Tarn Route

This classic route begins in the village of Langdale at the Old Dungeon Ghyll car park. Head west along the path towards Oxendale Beck, gradually ascending through the valley. Follow the path towards Browney Gill, and then climb up to the col at Red Tarn. From here, it’s a straightforward ascent to the summit of Pike of Blisco, offering stunning views over the Langdale Pikes and beyond. Descend via the same route or loop back through Oxendale.

7.5 km ~3 hours Moderate

Langdale Circuit via Blea Tarn

Starting at the National Trust car park near the Old Dungeon Ghyll, follow the road towards Blea Tarn. Take the path along the tarn’s northern edge before heading uphill towards the col between Blake Rigg and Pike of Blisco. From here, it’s a direct climb to the summit. Descend via Red Tarn and Oxendale for a scenic circuit back to the start.

9 km ~4 hours Moderate

Crinkle Crags and Pike of Blisco Combo

This more challenging route begins at the Old Dungeon Ghyll car park and ascends via The Band towards the Crinkle Crags ridge. After tackling the classic scramble of the Bad Step and enjoying the ridge walk, descend to Red Tarn and climb up Pike of Blisco as a finale. Return through Oxendale for a full day’s adventure.

12 km ~6 hours Hard

Wrynose Pass Approach

Park at the top of Wrynose Pass for a shorter and more direct ascent. From the pass, follow the path north-west, climbing steadily along the ridge towards the summit of Pike of Blisco. This route is steep but rewarding, providing panoramic vistas with minimal effort. Return via the same path.

4 km ~2 hours Easy

Pike of Blisco and Great Langdale Round

Starting at the Old Dungeon Ghyll car park, this longer route explores the Great Langdale valley. Ascend Pike of Blisco via Oxendale and Red Tarn, then descend towards Blea Tarn and continue around the valley via Side Pike and Lingmoor Fell. It’s a scenic and varied day out for experienced walkers.

15 km ~7 hours Hard
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Simm Hewitt Nuttall Wainwright Birkett Synge Fellranger

Elevation

703m

2,306 ft

Prominence

177m

Coordinates

54.4281, -3.1249

NY271042

OS Map

89 90

Explorer: OL6N

At the Summit

The summit features a striking stone cairn, a perfect place to rest your weary legs and take a selfie with the stunning backdrop.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky and grassy with occasional boggy patches so bring your wellies just in case!

The Pike of Blisco is primarily composed of Skiddaw slate, which is part of the Borrowdale Volcanic Group. This gives the mountain its characteristic rugged appearance and forms the basis of the stunning landscape below.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can see the breathtaking Langdale Pikes, the distant Scafell range, and even the serene waters of Windermere on a clear day.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Blisco' is thought to derive from the Old Norse for 'bleak' or 'bare hill', which is rather fitting considering the mountain's rocky terrain.

Historical Significance

Pike of Blisco has been a popular destination for climbers and walkers since the Victorian era, contributing to the area's rich outdoor culture.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel offers the nearest parking, with spaces filling up quickly during peak season. They provide a lovely cuppa if you need to refuel!

Public Transport

Bus services operate regularly between Ambleside and the Old Dungeon Ghyll during the tourist season.

Nearby Facilities

The Old Dungeon Ghyll Pub is nearby and serves hearty meals and refreshments, as well as having toilet facilities available. A great way to warm up after a hike!

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Loose rocks and steep slopes, particularly in wet conditions. Be cautious of changing weather as the Lake District can be notoriously fickle!

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 Pike of Blisco?

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

Are there other walkers around Pike of Blisco?

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 Pike of Blisco search or of course create your own walk for Pike of Blisco

Can I organise a walk to Pike of Blisco?

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 Pike of Blisco.

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 Pike of Blisco?

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 Pike of Blisco 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: NY271042

View on OpenStreetMap

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