Highlight • Climb
Great End Summit
Hiking
5.0
(29)
Running
5.0
(4)
Mountaineering
5.0
(3)
Anyone who has ventured onto the Scafells from Seathwaite will be familiar with Great End’s brooding north face, split violently by three principle gullies. Their position allows them to hold snow well into spring, making them the arena of classic winter climbs, as well as daring summer scrambles. Nestled below them is one of Lakeland’s most beautiful pools, Sprinkling Tarn. It is tranquil and dramatic in the same breath: a wonderful spot for a wild camp.
Views for miles to Lakeland’s premier peaks
The view from the summit will have you planning return visits in no time. The great exhibitionist fist of Great Gable haughtily glares back across Styhead to the northwest. The Scafell massif rises and falls like the back of some gigantic, slumbering beast until it ends on England’s highest ground, Scafell Pike. Borrowdale stretches away to distant Derwent Water, beyond which northern sentinels Skiddaw and Blencathra stand proud. Sublime.
You can access the delightful walking routes to Great End in relatively straightforward fashion from Seathwaite, whilst longer expeditions from Langdale, Wasdale and especially Eskdale are a great adventure. All valleys offer a host of accommodation options, from campsites to legendary inns.
Hiking to Great End is a serious expedition in winter conditions and should only be tackled by well-equipped mountaineers. It is a strenuous outing any time of year but is not outside of the realms of possibility for enthusiastic children and energetic dogs when the weather is favourable.
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
June 11, 2021
Hiking
June 29, 2021
Hiking
July 28, 2023
Running
Normally run as part of the Scafells or from Esk Pike in the south-east.
Sign up for a free komoot account to get 3 more insider tips and takes.
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near Great End Summit
9
hikers
21.7km
07:31
910m
900m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
1
hikers
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 900 m
Good to know
Family Friendly
yes
Wheelchair access
no
Dog Friendly
yes
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Monday 20 July
22°C
11°C
-- %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: -- km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December