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Scafell

964m Elevation
132m Prominence
England Country
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Explore routes near Scafell

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.

Wasdale Head via Lingmell Gill

This classic route to Scafell starts from the Wasdale Head car park. The path ascends via Lingmell Gill, offering stunning views of Wast Water and the surrounding fells. The route then heads to the col between Scafell and Lingmell before ascending the steep, rocky slopes to the summit of Scafell.

8 km ~4 hours Challenging

Eskdale via Cam Spout

Starting from the remote valley of Eskdale, this route follows the River Esk before ascending the dramatic Cam Spout waterfall. The route continues up steep terrain to join the ridge leading to the summit of Scafell. This is a quieter, more adventurous route compared to others.

12 km ~6 hours Challenging

Borrowdale via Sty Head and Corridor Route

This longer but highly scenic route begins in Borrowdale, heading initially to Sty Head Tarn. From there, it joins the famous Corridor Route, which skirts the flanks of Great Gable and Lingmell, leading to Scafell Pike. A short descent and re-ascent take you to Scafell's summit.

16 km ~8 hours Very Challenging

Boot via Burnmoor Tarn

Starting from the village of Boot, this less-trodden route takes you past the historic Burnmoor Tarn. The path climbs steadily to the col below Sca Fell, from which a steep ascent leads to the summit. The return journey offers opportunities to explore Boot's heritage sites.

14 km ~7 hours Challenging

Wasdale Head via Lord's Rake

This adventurous route starts at Wasdale Head and ascends Scafell via the notorious Lord's Rake. This steep and rocky gully requires care but rewards climbers with a thrilling approach to the summit. The descent can follow the same path or use an alternative route.

9 km ~5 hours Very Challenging
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

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

Elevation

964m

3,162 ft

Prominence

132m

Coordinates

54.4475, -3.2247

NY206064

OS Map

89 90

Explorer: OL6N

At the Summit

The summit features a large stone cairn and a striking view of Scafell Pike, along with panoramic sights over the surrounding fells.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky with sections of grassy slopes and boulder fields.

Scafell is primarily composed of Skiddaw Slate and Borrowdale Volcanic rocks, providing impressive crags and rugged landscapes that tell a story of geological upheaval.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can see Scafell Pike, Great Gable, and the distant Morecambe Bay. Just be sure to say hello to them!

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Scafell' is derived from the Old Norse 'Skalli', meaning 'bald head', referring to its rocky peak.

Historical Significance

Scafell is historically significant as part of the Lake District's unique heritage and was a favourite of climbers and poets alike, including Wordsworth.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a paid car park at Seathwaite, which is about 2 miles from the start of the Brown Tongue route.

Public Transport

The nearest bus service from Keswick to Seathwaite is available, but check local schedules for times.

Nearby Facilities

There are no facilities directly on Scafell, but nearby in Seathwaite, you can find a cafe for a well-earned coffee and some loos for your convenience.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Loose rocks, sudden weather changes, and steep drops require caution, especially for those without a head for heights.

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 Scafell?

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

Are there other walkers around Scafell?

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 Scafell search or of course create your own walk for Scafell

Can I organise a walk to Scafell?

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 Scafell.

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 Scafell?

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 Scafell here

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

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: NY206064

View on OpenStreetMap

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Nearby Hills

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 Great Gable

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 Bowfell

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