Foxes Rake (Foxes Tarn Gully)
Foxes Rake (Foxes Tarn Gully)
Highlight • Gorge
Hiking
5.0
(38)
Running
5.0
(1)
Foxes Rake, also known as Foxes Tarn Gully, is a distinctive natural gorge and scrambling route nestled in the heart of the Lake District National Park, England. This challenging trail serves as a crucial passage between England's two highest mountains, Scafell Pike and Sca Fell, situated on the Eskdale side of Mickledore. Rising to an elevation of approximately 726 metres, it is a natural watercourse often fed by the small mountain lake of Foxes Tarn at its head, featuring a…
Routes leading to this Highlight may be dangerous
Routes may comprise technical, difficult, or hazardous terrain. Specialist equipment and prior experience may be required.
This Highlight is in a protected area
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Tips
March 10, 2022
Hiking
December 20, 2022
Running
July 6, 2023
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Foxes Rake (Foxes Tarn Gully)
4.7
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76
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10.5km
06:00
1,150m
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Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.5
(11)
114
hikers
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09:54
1,300m
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Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.3
(9)
116
hikers
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08:24
1,080m
1,090m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 730 m
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Sunday 15 March
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2°C
89 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 31.0 km/h
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Foxes Rake is primarily known as a crucial link between England's two highest mountains, Scafell Pike and Sca Fell. Hikers often use it as an alternative to the more technical Broad Stand when traversing between these peaks. It's a key component of longer, challenging hikes in the Scafell range, allowing access to Sca Fell from the Eskdale side after descending from Scafell Pike, or vice-versa.
Foxes Rake is generally considered an accessible scramble, less intimidating than routes like Lord's Rake, which is known for loose rock and rockfalls, and significantly safer than the technical rock climbing required for Broad Stand. While it involves navigating loose rock, slippery mosses, and boulders, it's often described as a 'pleasant clamber' suitable for those with good fitness and sure-footedness, without significant exposure.
The primary natural feature is Foxes Tarn itself, a small, peaceful mountain lake nestled in a rocky amphitheatre at the head of the gully. From the area around the tarn and the gully, you can enjoy highly regarded views across Upper Eskdale and towards Scafell Pike. The gully also features cascades that become a dramatic waterfall in wet conditions.
While the immediate area around Foxes Rake is remote, hikers typically access the Scafell range from valleys like Wasdale, Eskdale, or Langdale. Parking options would depend on your chosen starting point for the wider hike. For routes approaching from Eskdale, consider parking areas near Boot or Brotherilkeld, though these will involve a significant walk to reach the base of the gully.
Foxes Rake involves scrambling over loose, wet, and sometimes icy rocks, with a 'big step up' that requires using hands. While it's not highly technical, it's a challenging route. It is generally not recommended for young children or inexperienced dogs due to the terrain and potential for slippery conditions. Well-behaved, agile dogs with experienced owners might manage, but be prepared for lifting or assisting them in sections.
Regardless of the season, sturdy, waterproof boots with excellent grip are essential due to slippery rocks and water. In winter, conditions can become treacherous with icy patches, requiring additional gear such as microspikes or crampons, an ice axe, and appropriate winter clothing. Always carry waterproofs, extra layers, navigation tools, and sufficient food and water. Gloves are also highly recommended, as hands will be used for scrambling.
The time taken to navigate Foxes Rake itself is relatively short, perhaps 30-60 minutes depending on conditions and individual pace. However, it is part of a much longer mountain day. The overall hike to reach the gully and then continue to Scafell Pike or Sca Fell can take anywhere from 6 to 10+ hours, depending on your starting point, fitness, and chosen route.
Foxes Rake is situated in a very remote part of the Lake District, high in the fells between Scafell Pike and Sca Fell. There are no immediate amenities nearby. The closest facilities would be found in the valley bottoms, such as Wasdale Head, Boot (Eskdale), or Langdale, which offer pubs, cafes, and accommodation options. These are typically a significant walk or drive from the trailheads leading to Foxes Rake.
Foxes Tarn is one of the highest named tarns in the Lake District, a small, often cold body of water. While wild swimming is generally permitted in the Lake District's tarns, Foxes Tarn is very remote and exposed. It's a tiny pool, and its primary appeal is its scenic setting rather than its suitability for swimming. Any attempt at wild swimming here would require extreme caution due to the altitude, water temperature, and remoteness.
Reaching the remote Scafell range, where Foxes Rake is located, by public transport can be challenging. There are limited bus services to the main valleys like Wasdale, Eskdale, or Langdale, and these often operate seasonally or with reduced frequency. From the bus stops, a significant walk would still be required to reach the trailheads. Planning well in advance and checking current timetables is essential if relying on public transport.
Weather significantly alters the gully's character. In dry periods, it's possible to ascend without getting wet, offering a pleasant scramble. However, in heavy rain, it transforms into a gushing waterfall, making the rocks extremely slippery and requiring waterproof gear. In winter, the water can freeze, creating dangerous icy patches that demand extra caution and specialized equipment like microspikes or crampons.