LAKE DISTRICT / MOUNTAIN WALK / COMPLETE ROUTE
Scafell Pike via Wasdale and Hollow Stones: Complete Walking Guide
Climb England’s highest mountain on the direct Wasdale route, following Lingmell Gill and Hollow Stones to Scafell Pike’s 978-metre summit.
The route at a glance
Why this walking route is worth doing.
Wasdale gives the most direct approach to Scafell Pike. The climb gains height quickly beside Lingmell Gill before entering the rocky Hollow Stones basin.
This is a serious mountain day rather than a casual tourist trail. Strong wind, rain, snow, cold and almost no visibility are possible in any season.
Mapped and ready
See the route before you set off.
The genuine route overview and live map sit together, so you can understand the whole journey before opening the detailed directions.
Route overview
Lake Head car park → Lingmell Gill → Brown Tongue → Hollow Stones → Lingmell Col junction → Scafell Pike summit → return by the same route.
- Approximately 8.3 km return
- Approximately 907 m ascent
- Allow 5–7 hours
Follow the route
1. Lake Head to Lingmell Gill
Leave from the rear of the car park and bear left onto the waymarked path, continuing upstream with Lingmell Gill on your right.
2. Cross the beck
Cross at roughly 300 metres elevation and continue on the stone-pitched path. Turn back if the water is high or rising.
3. Brown Tongue and Hollow Stones
At the division around NY 201 072, take the left-hand path into Hollow Stones, following the current National Trust route.
4. Lingmell Col junction
Climb through the boulder field to the critical junction around NY 210 076. Memorise or photograph it for the descent.
5. Summit and return
Continue on rough ground to the 978-metre summit. Retrace the ascent carefully; Piers Gill is not a descent route.
LOOKING BACK OVER WASDALE
Pause on the climb and turn around. The view opens across Wasdale Head, with Wast Water appearing between the surrounding fells. one of the finest moments on the Scafell Pike route.
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Before you go
Practical information.
Check a mountain-specific forecast. Carry a paper map and compass and know how to use them. Take waterproofs, warm layers, food, water, a head torch and a charged phone. Digital mapping must not be your only navigation. Keep dogs on a short lead around livestock and take all litter home.
Terrain
This detail has not yet been verified for this route. Check the official visitor information before setting off.
Accessibility
This detail has not yet been verified for this route. Check the official visitor information before setting off.
Toilets and refreshments
This detail has not yet been verified for this route. Check the official visitor information before setting off.
Dogs
This detail has not yet been verified for this route. Check the official visitor information before setting off.
Safety
This detail has not yet been verified for this route. Check the official visitor information before setting off.
Seasonal considerations
This detail has not yet been verified for this route. Check the official visitor information before setting off.
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See the shape of the journey
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Things to do near Lake District, Cumbria.
There’s far more to the Lake District than walking. From paddleboarding on peaceful lakes and cycling through dramatic valleys to treetop adventures, boat trips, historic attractions and family days out, there’s something here for every age and energy level.
Whether you’re looking for a full outdoor adventure or something a little more relaxed, these are some of the best activities to enjoy during your visit.
Useful answers
Scafell Pike via Wasdale and Hollow Stones: Complete Walking Guide FAQs.
How long does Scafell Pike from Wasdale take?
Allow around 5–7 hours. Fitness, conditions, navigation, stops and summit weather can change the time considerably.
Is this route suitable for beginners?
It is not an easy beginner walk. Fit newcomers should build mountain experience first or go with a suitably experienced companion or qualified guide.
Can I rely on a route map on my phone?
No. Downloaded mapping is useful, but carry a paper map and compass and know how to navigate when the route disappears in cloud.
Which path should I take at Hollow Stones?
At the split around NY 201 072, take the left-hand path into Hollow Stones, following the current National Trust route.
Where next?
More walks in Lake District, Cumbria.
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