How do I know if it is good climbing conditions for Scafell Pike?

Q. I hope that you can help, friends of mine are climbing Scarfell for the first time and are not sure what they should class as good climbing conditions for Scafell Pike. Please can anyone give me advice as to the wind speeds that should be okay to climb in and then what should be avoided etc? They have a long trip there are it would be a lot of wasted money if they then should or can't climb. Thank you

Kim Goss,

A. For a wide choice of walk routes and maps for climbing Scafell Pike see Walks routes maps up Scafell Pike in The Southern Fells of The Lake District National Park, Cumbria.

Hope this helps

Mike (Editor)

A. There are a number of factors to consider, not least visibility. One of the advantages of walking at altitude in the Lake District is the magnificent views and trust me the views from Scafell Pike can be amongst the best. Bear in mind that unless the weather is extremely still it's invariably windy on The [Scafell] Pike and as such wind chill is a factor.

Esk Hause, in particular, is a regular wind trap and there are very few occasions when I have been able to walk there without hat, gloves and a windproof outer layer.

As for safety in the wind, this is really about what you're confident with and your level of experience. When visibility is poor, high wind speed can contribute to disorientation, so it's important to prepare properly and make sure you plan your route as you can set out in perfect conditions and quickly encounter rough weather.

Unless you plan to ascend via Lord's Rake there is nothing technical about any of the ascents of Scafell Pike. Paths are very well trodden and you would be a very lucky person not to meet other walkers on route. If you are at all unsure about this walk, postpone it until such time as day length is good.

I wouldn't presume to recommend a wind speed unsuitable for walking but bear in mind the most important factor is the forecasted speed of the gusts.

Pack as much gear away as you can (including the map bag) and make sure all your rucksack straps are correctly adjusted and tucked away.

I have additional cable ties wrapped around the straps to ensure I don't get "flicked in the face" Unfortunately; most modern rucksacks aren't designed to be worn in windy weather. If you haven't any cable ties, use thin elastic tied round the excess strapping, using reef knots.

Preferred route for me is Walk map c194 Scafell Pike from The Old Dungeon Ghyll, Great Langdale from Stool End Farm taking the little used path to the NNW of the farm, crossing Mickleden Beck at the weir and then taking the path up Rossett Gill. This route shortens the walk on the Cumbrian Way needed to walk up from Dungeon Ghyll. Skirting Rossett Pike, Angle Tarn there is a good path up to Esk Hause. The clear path skirts Great End and Ill Crag, before ascending to the [Scafell] Pike.

I prefer to descend via the Corridor Route Walk route map c454 Scafell Pike via The Corridor Route from Seathwaite as the views of Great Gable are spectacular. If you have 2 cars leave one at Seathwaite so you can descend via Stockley Bridge, Failing that in the vicinity of Sty Head take the path initially East and then South East back to Angle Tarn and then on to Stool End.

If time and energy permit don't ignore the other summits in the area. They're largely ignored by the masses, hell bent on reaching the [Scafell] Pike. When I was on Esk Pike and Great End in October I had both summits to myself. Plenty of time to contemplate in solitude whilst observing the party on Scafell [Pike].

I hope the trip lives up to expectation, enjoy

Dave Green

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