Rossett Pike

Rossett Pike

Rossett Pike is a 651-metre Wainwright in the Lake District, with its summit at NY249075. Bowfell, Esk Pike and Allen Crags are nearby, making this a useful starting point for exploring the surrounding fells. Summit record.

Rock, cairns and views

The highest point is a rock outcrop just west of the main cairn. Farther east, the separate Mickleden cairn stands on a rocky promontory with a fine view down the valley. The Langdale Pikes rise on one side, with Pike of Blisco on the other. Summit and viewpoints.

From Old Dungeon Ghyll and back

Follow the track behind Old Dungeon Ghyll into Mickleden. At the valley head, take the Rossett Gill path rather than the route to Stake Pass. The ascent crosses streams and climbs in broad zigzags to the col. Turn right onto the grassy path to Rossett Pike.

For a there-and-back walk, return to the col, descend the same Rossett Gill path and follow Mickleden back to Old Dungeon Ghyll. Keep to the path rather than taking a direct line down the gill. Rossett Gill approach.

A longer circuit over Esk Pike and Bowfell

A strenuous 15 km circuit continues via Angle Tarn. Cross its outflow by stepping stones only if safe, then continue via Esk Hause to Esk Pike and over Ore Gap to Bowfell. Retrace Bowfell’s summit spur to the cairned main path, then descend to Three Tarns, avoiding the Great Slab. Follow The Band to Stool End Farm and the farm lane to Old Dungeon Ghyll.

The bouldery upper ground needs confident navigation in cloud. Allow a full mountain day. Three-summit circuit.

Volcanic foundations

Rossett Pike lies within the area of the Lincomb Tarns Tuff Formation, part of the Borrowdale Volcanic Group. Its characteristic rock is dacitic lapilli-tuff: volcanic ash and rock fragments deposited by hot flows and welded together. Thin layers of tuff and sandstone made from volcanic material also occur. Local geology.

Parking, buses and facilities

The National Trust car park at Old Dungeon Ghyll, NY286061, is the start for both walks. Check the current parking terms. Public toilets are at the separate Stickle Ghyll car park farther down Great Langdale. Keep dogs on leads around grazing livestock. Langdale visitor information.

The 516 bus links Old Dungeon Ghyll with Ambleside. Check the timetable for your travel date and the last return before choosing a route. 516 timetable.

Before setting out

Check the mountain forecast and leave your route and expected return time with someone. Carry navigation equipment, warm layers, waterproofs, food and drinking water. Leave enough daylight for the descent.

Wet rock, strong winds and rising streams can change the difficulty quickly. A stream passable on the ascent may be unsafe when you return. Turn back before crossings become dangerous. Snow and ice demand winter skills and equipment; a low-level valley walk is a better choice when the upper fell is beyond your experience. Walking safety.