Image shared for Skiddaw North Top

Skiddaw North Top

924m Elevation
1m Prominence
England Country

Good walks are even better shared.

Explore routes near Skiddaw North Top

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Dasher Path from Skiddaw

A well-trodden path that winds its way up from the main Skiddaw summit, providing a scenic approach with gradual inclines.

2.5 km ~1.5 hours Moderate

Latrigg Path

An alternative approach starting from the Latrigg Car Park. This path ascends beforehand and offers panoramic views over the surrounding valleys.

3.5 km ~2 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Birkett

Elevation

924m

3,032 ft

Prominence

1m

Coordinates

54.6528, -3.1475

NY260292

OS Map

89 90

Explorer: OL4S

At the Summit

The summit features a prominent cairn, often used by hikers for their photo ops, along with splendid views across the Lake District.

Terrain & Geology

Grassy with rocky outcrops and some boggy areas especially after rainfall.

Skiddaw North Top is primarily composed of Skiddaw Slate, a sedimentary rock that dates back to the Ordovician period. The area's geology provides fascinating insights into the Earth's history, including tectonic activity that formed the range.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, enjoy views of Blencathra, Derwentwater, and the rolling hills of the Lake District National Park.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Skiddaw' is believed to derive from the Old Norse, meaning 'shining mountain'.

Historical Significance

Skiddaw North Top is an essential part of local folklore and has been a popular hiking destination for centuries, attracting outdoor enthusiasts.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

The nearest parking is at the Skiddaw Car Park, positioned at the foot of the hill, offering easy access to various trails.

Public Transport

Regular bus services from Keswick to the northern Lake District provide easy access; check local timetables for specifics.

Nearby Facilities

In Keswick, you can find numerous cafes, shops, and public toilets; great places to rest after your hike.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Be cautious of sudden weather changes typical in the Lake District, and watch out for slippery paths, especially in wet conditions.

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 Skiddaw North Top?

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

Are there other walkers around Skiddaw North Top?

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 Skiddaw North Top search or of course create your own walk for Skiddaw North Top

Can I organise a walk to Skiddaw North Top?

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 Skiddaw North Top.

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 Skiddaw North Top?

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 Skiddaw North Top 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: NY260292

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.