Slight Side

Slight Side

Slight Side is the rocky southern end of Scafell’s ridge, standing above Eskdale. The long approach crosses rough grass and wet ground before finishing with a short scramble. Eskdale approach.

Summit

The 762-metre summit is a rock tor with a small cairn, at NY 20991 05014. Scafell and Long Green rise to the north; Crinkle Crags and the Coniston fells appear to the south-east. Slight Side belongs to Wainwright’s Southern Fells. Summit and views.

Wha House out and back

Start at the car park opposite Wha House Farm. Cross the stile and follow the Terrace Route north through gates. Keep Cat Crag on your right before crossing the boggy ground around Catcove Beck. Continue above Cow Cove to Quagrigg Moss, then climb the steep scree ramp. At the little saddle, turn left around the first outcrop and clamber onto the second. Ascent.

Descend the same rocks and reverse the route. Beside Catcove Beck’s pale stones, turn right across the stony ground to regain the Terrace Route, rather than following the descending path towards Brotherilkeld. Return through the gates to the car park. Return.

The broken paths and rough ground demand confident navigation. Plan this as a mountain walk, with enough energy for the descent. If the final scramble feels beyond your ability to reverse safely, turn back below it. Terrain.

Rocks and landscape

Upper Eskdale’s geology records ancient eruptions: basalt lavas of the Throstle Garth Member form part of the Borrowdale Volcanic Group. The wider district also contains volcanic ash deposits and intrusions, where magma cooled below the surface. Geological background.

Access and preparation

Wha House is an Eskdale parking location; follow the signs on arrival and keep farm access clear. Dalegarth Station offers pay-and-display parking and toilets farther down the valley. Parking.

The Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway runs to Dalegarth for Boot. Check the operating date and last return train, and plan the onward journey to Wha House separately. Dalegarth has a café and toilets; check opening times before relying on refreshments. Railway information.

Carry a map, compass, torch, waterproofs, warm layers and spare food. Check the mountain forecast and daylight, and leave your route with someone. Avoid shortcuts down unfamiliar steep ground. Mountain preparation.

Rain makes rock slippery and can make beck crossings unsafe. Turn back if a crossing is unsafe or water is rising, allowing for the same crossings on your return. Snow and ice require winter skills and equipment. Weather and safety.