Saturday saw us braving the crowds to tackle Lingmell, Scafell and Slight Side in Wasdale.  The vast majority of the people (we estimated over 1000 at the head of Wasdale), were focused solely on ascending Scafell Pike.  Fortunately, we were able to find much more space to ourselves by heading up the Western spur of Lingmell before joining the main tourist path at Lingmell Coll to ascend to the Scafell Pike plateau, though we then veered off towards Mickledore and Scafell.

The sheer number of people on the main path up Scafell Pike and on its summit was a sight to behold: the top was so busy there was a queue to stand on the highest point (see carousel image), though most folk showed no interest in the surrounding mountains.

Thankfully, our objectives allowed us to bypass all the hubbub as we headed towards Scafell.  We ascended by scrambling up Lord’s Rake (to the right of the main image of Scafell from Mickledore) and then onto the summit where we found only one other person – the difference between the country’s highest and second highest mountains was stark indeed.  From Scafell we headed to Slight Side before contouring back around Scafell and down to the valley.  A strenuous and rewarding day out.

If you’d like to explore the Lake District but would like to avoid following the well-beaten path and crowds, Steve will be very happy to support your adventures.  Please get in touch for a chat on steve@stevebanksoutdoors.co.uk or 07796 213817