MARK Scafell + Scafell Pike via Foxes Tarn
Linking Scafell and Scafell Pike via Foxes Tarn is one of the most serious and rewarding mountain days in the Lake District. It's rugged, steep, and committing — a proper high-mountain traverse that takes you over both giants of the Scafell massif. The Foxes Tarn gully is the key: a steep, wet, rocky climb that demands confidence and care. This is a route for experienced walkers who want a big challenge and a day that feels truly mountaineering in character.
The full route breakdown — stats, the line in stages, what it really feels like, and the practical detail you need to plan the day.
At a Glance
- Grade: Serious mountain route
- Terrain: Steep ascents, rugged cols, wet gully, boulder fields, exposed upper slopes
The Route
🏔️ Route Character
This route has three distinct personalities: Scafell via Lord's Rake or the direct ridge — steep, dramatic, and rugged; Foxes Tarn gully — wet, loose, and serious, a proper mountaineering-style ascent; and Scafell Pike upper slopes — rocky, bouldery, and atmospheric.
The day begins with a steep climb onto Scafell, the quieter and more rugged of the two peaks. From the summit, the route drops into the dramatic col beneath the East Buttress before entering the Foxes Tarn gully — a steep, wet chute that rises directly to the tarn. It's physical, slippery, and committing.
From Foxes Tarn, a long, rocky ascent leads to the summit plateau of Scafell Pike. The top is busy, but the approach is not — most walkers never see this side of the mountain. The descent returns via the Wasdale path or, for a more scenic finish, via Mickledore and Hollow Stones.
🧰 Route Breakdown
- 1. Wasdale Head → Scafell (via Lord's Rake or ridge) — A steep, rugged climb. Lord's Rake is dramatic but loose; the ridge is more stable but still physical.
- 2. Scafell Summit → Foxes Tarn Gully — A descent into the col beneath the East Buttress, followed by a steep, wet gully climb. Serious terrain requiring care.
- 3. Foxes Tarn → Scafell Pike Upper Slopes — A long, rocky ascent through broken ground. Sustained gradients and rugged terrain.
- 4. Scafell Pike Summit — A broad, rocky top with huge views across the western fells. Busy on most days.
- 5. Descent — Return via Hollow Stones or loop back toward Mickledore for a more scenic finish.
Practical
⚠️ Difficulty & Hazards
- Foxes Tarn Gully: Wet, loose, steep, and serious — the crux of the route.
- Lord's Rake: Dramatic but unstable — rockfall risk.
- Exposure: Significant in places, especially around the col.
- Navigation: Complex in cloud — multiple gullies and broken ground.
- Remoteness: Once committed to the gully, retreat is awkward.
- Fitness: A long, physical day with sustained climbing.
🌠️ Who This Route Suits
- Experienced hillwalkers
- Scramblers wanting a serious challenge
- Anyone seeking a big, rugged mountain day
- Walkers comfortable with steep, wet, loose terrain
Not ideal for
- Beginners
- Walkers uncomfortable with exposure or wet gullies
- Poor-visibility days — navigation becomes dangerous
- Anyone wanting a simple ascent of Scafell Pike
📱 Parking & Logistics
- Parking: Wasdale Head car parks — close to the start, fill early on good days.
- Facilities: Toilets, pub, and limited services at Wasdale Head. Full facilities in Gosforth.
- Transport: Remote valley — limited bus access. Most walkers drive.
🧰 GPX & Map Notes
On OS Explorer OL6. Foxes Tarn gully is not obvious in cloud. Lord's Rake is dramatic but unstable. A GPX is strongly recommended for the entire traverse.
⭐ MX Summary: The Scafell + Scafell Pike link via Foxes Tarn is one of the most serious and rewarding mountain days in the Lake District — steep, rugged, atmospheric, and full of character. If you want a challenge that feels truly mountaineering in nature, this is the line.