This challenge takes you on a circuit of the valley of Coledale, visiting 6 summits in the process - Causey Pike, Scar Crags, Sail, Crag Hill, Hopegill Head and Grisedale Pike. It's a high level 'romp' with some spectacular views.

You'll climb about 1,231 metres (4,050 feet)

You'll walk about 12 km (7.5 miles)

 

This a high level traverse of the summits surrounding the valley of Coledale Beck. It can be done in either direction but approaching Causey Pike from Rowling End is by far the best way to climb this particular mountain. This direction also means you finish the route in the village of Braithwaite which has some fine 'refreshment houses'.

 

 

This route can be done in either direction but we describe it here in the clockwise option as we think this is the better option.

We start at Stoneycroft below Rowling End which forms the eastern shoulder of Causey Pike, the summit of which is an almost perfect rocky dome. From here it's a high level traverse of the ridge to Crag Hill, mostly on grass, passing over Scar Crags and Sail on the way. At 839 metres Crag Hill is the highest point of this walk and a fine viewpoint.

The ridge from Causey Pike to Crag Hill with Coledale Hause on the right

View North from Coledale Hause towards Keswick. Grisedale Pike on the left.

There's a descent from Crag Hill to Coledale Hause where, if the weather is kind, you'll get a spectacular view along the full length on the valley North towards Skiddaw, Keswick and Blencathra.

From Coledale Hause it's over Sand Hill, a subsidiary summit then onto Hopegill Head.

Storm clouds over Hopegill Head

Hopegill Head provides some fine views into the valley of Hopegill on the other side of the mountain and towards Lorton Vale and Cockermouth. Immediately to the East of the summit Hobcarton Crags fall away precipitously and the parallel valley of Hobcarton lies below. This is possibly one of the quietest and least visited valleys in the whole of the district. Hobcarton Crags, facing North, are home to one of only two sites in the whole of England for the rare Red Alpine Catchfly plant.

After visiting Grisedale Pike, the last of our summits, it's a long descent to the village of Braithwaite for some well deserved refreshments.

mob: 07584 177506

e-mail: enquiries@bigwalks.com

Back to the top of the page

Please contact us for details and further information