Highlight • Natural Monument
Scafell Summit
Hiking
4.9
(66)
The summit is a great place to pause and enjoy the panorama. You can gaze across at the gathered masses on the rocky cathedral of Scafell Pike, which dominates the view to the north east. In every direction is mountainous Lakeland at its best; both the Bowfell group and the Western Fells look magnificent, whilst Wast Water glistens to the west.
Discover adventure amongst Scafell’s crags
Scafell’s massive, broad western shoulder steeply descends to the valley, whilst a high ridge runs south to Slight Side, another fine Wainwright summit. Intimidating fortresses of crag, riven by rakes and gullies, constitute its north and east flanks. They overshadow Mickledore ridge, which connects the mountain to Scafell Pike. The only hiker’s breach in the battlements is that of Lord’s Rake, a steep clamber up and down a succession of gullies.
Looking at the map, you may be tempted to link Scafell to nearby Scafell Pike. However, there is no direct route between the two that does not involve rock climbing. Broad Stand, which descends from Scafell to the Mickledore ridge, is an accident black spot and out of bounds to hikers. A descent south to Foxes Tarn or north via Lord’s Rake are the safest ways to get to Mickledore.
Wasdale and Eskdale are the best bases for the mountain, with Wasdale certainly representing the quickest walking routes to Scafell. Both contain plenty of accommodation and camping options, whilst secluded Upper Eskdale is a magnificent place for a wild camp. Scafell is serious stuff and for equipped and experienced mountaineers only when under full winter conditions.
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
December 3, 2019
Hiking
July 4, 2021
Hiking
March 6, 2018
Hiking
Sign up for a free komoot account to get 4 more insider tips and takes.
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near Scafell Summit
4.6
(13)
75
hikers
10.5km
06:02
1,150m
1,150m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.5
(11)
118
hikers
24.3km
09:54
1,300m
1,300m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.2
(6)
83
hikers
13.1km
05:27
850m
850m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 950 m
Good to know
Family Friendly
yes
Wheelchair access
no
Dog Friendly
yes
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Monday 8 June
12°C
7°C
74 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 29.0 km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December