Highlight • Summit
Hiking
5.0
(264)
Dove Crag Summit is a prominent fell in the Eastern Fells of the Lake District National Park, Cumbria, England, reaching an elevation of 792 meters (2,598 feet). Situated near Patterdale and Glenridding, it forms a key part of the popular Fairfield Horseshoe walking route. While its western slopes appear gentle, the eastern face dramatically plunges into the Dovedale valley with impressive, rugged crags, making it a distinctive landmark in the region.
What truly captivates visitors to Dove Crag is the…
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
September 12, 2023
Hiking
April 29, 2016
Hiking
September 2, 2019
Hiking
Routes here
Best routes to Dove Crag summit
4.8
(410)
3,579
hikers
17.7km
06:01
890m
890m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.9
(17)
217
hikers
16.2km
06:01
940m
950m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.9
(16)
197
hikers
13.5km
04:54
720m
720m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 780 m
Good to know
Family Friendly
yes
Wheelchair access
no
Dog Friendly
yes
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Saturday 28 February
6°C
0°C
-- %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: -- km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
The Priest's Hole is a famous natural cavern located within the impressive eastern crags of Dove Crag. Access typically involves a challenging hike and some scrambling. While it's a popular destination for adventurers, it's important to be prepared for rugged terrain. Many hikers recommend approaching Dove Crag from Dovedale to fully appreciate the crags and potentially find the cave.
Dove Crag Summit is generally considered a challenging fell. While it can be approached as part of the longer Fairfield Horseshoe, which has varied terrain, direct ascents often involve steep sections and some scrambling. There aren't typically 'easy' trails to the summit itself, but some approaches, like starting from Ambleside and passing over Low Pike and High Pike, might offer a more gradual ascent compared to the direct Dovedale route which showcases the dramatic crags.
Yes, Dove Crag Summit can be enjoyed in winter conditions by experienced mountaineers. However, those without winter experience should stick to gentler weather. Winter hikes will require appropriate gear, including crampons and ice axes, and knowledge of winter navigation and safety.
Parking for Dove Crag Summit can be found in nearby villages such as Ambleside, Grasmere, or Patterdale, depending on your chosen starting point. Parking areas can fill up quickly, especially during peak season and on weekends, so arriving early is often recommended.
The duration of a hike to Dove Crag Summit varies significantly depending on your chosen route and starting point. As part of the full Fairfield Horseshoe, it can be an all-day undertaking, potentially 6-8 hours or more. A more direct ascent from Dovedale or Patterdale might take 3-5 hours round trip, depending on fitness levels and stops.
While the summit itself involves challenging terrain, some of the lower sections and valleys leading towards Dove Crag can be more family-friendly. For dogs, many routes in the Lake District are dog-friendly, but owners should be mindful of livestock, steep sections, and potential scrambling. Always keep dogs on a lead where necessary and ensure they are capable of handling the terrain.
Grasmere, Ambleside, and Patterdale are the main villages near Dove Crag Summit and offer a range of amenities. You'll find pubs, cafes, shops, and various accommodation options, including campsites and guesthouses, scattered throughout these surrounding valleys.
Geologically, Dove Crag is composed of Borrowdale Volcanic rocks, which contribute to its steep and rugged crags. It is believed that the upper part of Dovedale, which the crag dramatically overlooks, was once a volcanic crater, adding to the dramatic scenery of the area.
The Fairfield Horseshoe is a classic, longer circular walk that includes Dove Crag as one of its many fells, offering a comprehensive tour of the Fairfield group. A direct ascent, particularly from Dovedale, provides a more intimate experience with Dove Crag's impressive eastern crags and the Dovedale valley, allowing hikers to focus specifically on this fell's unique features without committing to the full horseshoe.
Given the varied terrain and potential for rapidly changing weather in the Lake District, hikers should pack essentials such as waterproof and windproof layers, sturdy hiking boots, sufficient water and snacks, a map and compass (or GPS device), a first-aid kit, and sun protection. Depending on the season, additional gear like warm layers, hat, gloves, and even winter mountaineering equipment may be necessary.