Crummock Water Trek

Route overview

If you’re craving a Lake District walk that feels dramatic, rugged, and properly adventurous, this Crummock Water circuit delivers in every direction.

Follow the route

If you’re craving a Lake District walk that feels dramatic, rugged, and properly adventurous, this Crummock Water circuit delivers in every direction.

It’s a full mountain day packed with steep climbs, airy ridges, hidden waterfalls, and sweeping views over Crummock Water, Loweswater, Buttermere, and the towering fells that frame them.

📍 Route List

A). Lanthwaite Wood National Trust Car Park

B). Scale Force

C). Red Pike

D). High Stile

E). Moss Waterfall

F). Grasmoor

G). Whiteside

H). Return to Car Park

🌟 Route Breakdown

A). Lanthwaite Wood National Trust Car Park

Begin beneath tall pines with Crummock Water just a short stroll away. The woodland is peaceful and atmospheric — a gentle start before the big climbs ahead. Vibe: Calm, shaded, quietly beautiful Why it’s ideal: Easy parking + instant access to the lakeshore

B). Scale Force

Hidden deep in a narrow gorge, Scale Force is one of the tallest waterfalls in the Lake District. The approach is quiet and moody, and the waterfall appears suddenly between dark rock walls. Vibe: Dramatic, secluded, echoing Highlight: A perfect early “wow” moment

C). Red Pike

The climb begins in earnest. Red Pike rewards you with your first huge panorama — Crummock Water stretching out below and the Buttermere valley opening wide. Vibe: Steep, rewarding, big‑sky views Highlight: The red‑tinted rock that gives the fell its name

D). High Stile

A rugged ridge walk with views in every direction. This is classic high‑fell territory — rocky, airy, and unforgettable. Vibe: Wild, exposed, exhilarating Highlight: The full sweep of Buttermere and Fleetwith Pike

E). Moss Waterfall

A quieter, lesser‑known cascade tucked into the hillside. After the drama of the ridge, this peaceful spot feels like a secret. Vibe: Calm, refreshing, tucked‑away Highlight: A perfect breather before the next climb

F). Grasmoor

One of the giants of the north‑western fells. The summit plateau is huge, with views stretching across the Solway Firth and deep into the heart of the Lakes. Vibe: Grand, expansive, powerful Highlight: That “top of the world” feeling

G). Whiteside

A brilliant ridge descent with sharp edges, sweeping curves, and constant views over Crummock Water. Vibe: Dramatic, airy, unforgettable Highlight: One of the best ridge walks in the area

H). Return to Lanthwaite Wood

Drop back down to the lakeshore and wander through the woodland to finish where you began. Vibe: Gentle, cooling, satisfying Highlight: The final stroll along Crummock Water — a perfect end to a big day

🕒 Recommended Time to Complete

• Leisurely with long summit stops: 9–10 hours

This is a big mountain day, best suited to walkers comfortable with steep ascents, rocky ridges, and long distances.

🎒 What to Bring

• Sturdy boots (essential for the ridge sections)
• Plenty of water + high‑energy snacks
• Waterproofs and warm layers
• OS Maps app or offline map
• Walking poles if you prefer stability on steep ground
• A flask for the summit stops
• Emergency kit (whistle, foil blanket, headtorch)

🌤️ Best Time to Go

• Spring: Waterfalls in full flow
• Summer: Long days + clear ridge views
• Autumn: Golden colours around Crummock Water
• Winter: Only for experienced walkers — ice and wind can be severe

⭐ Why This Walk Stands Out

• A perfect blend of lakeshore, waterfalls, and high‑fell drama
• Some of the best ridge walking in the north‑western fells
• Huge views across multiple valleys
• A proper adventure with a satisfying finish

Save this for your next Lake District challenge — Crummock Water is wild, beautiful, and unforgettable.