The Top 8 Mountain Passes around Matterdale
Whether it be for the views, for the climbs or for the downhill descents, browse our list of the best mountain passes around Matterdale and make your next adventure one to remember. Contributed by the community, for the community, each mountain pass Highlight is a personal recommendation you know you can trust, so simply find your favorite and go.
Last updated: November 1, 2025
Grisedale Tarn
Highlight • Lake
Grisedale Tarn is in an atmospheric setting high in the mountains at the head of three valleys. According to folklore, a battle was fought in 945AD between the Saxon King …
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Sticks Pass Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Mountain Pass
Fast and open at the top, becoming more narrow singletrack further down, and ending in a series of hugely fun switchbacks, Sticks Pass (the Ullswater side as a descent from …
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Kirkstone Pass Climb from Hartsop
Highlight (Segment) • Mountain Pass
Starting the Kirkstone Pass climb from the Hartsop direction on the A592, prepare for a long, sustained ascent rather than an immediate shock to the system. As you pedal south, …
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Scandale Pass
Highlight • Trail
For travellers on foot between Ambleside and Ullswater, the Scandale Pass is a much wilder and quieter option than joining the cars struggling up the Kirkstone Pass.
Four paths meet …
Four paths meet …
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Descent Towards Brothers Water via Kirkstone Pass
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
One of the best descents in the Lake District. Passing the Kirstone Pass Inn on your right, head towards Patterdale and enjoy some spectacular views. A little 'technical' at the top so take care.
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