View of Windermere from High Pike
View of Windermere from High Pike
Highlight • Viewpoint
View of Windermere from High Pike
Hiking
5.0
(320)
However, Hike Pike is merely a pronounced perch on the way up Dove Crag’s long southern ridge, rather than a mountain in its own right. Wainwright described both High Pike and neighbouring Low Pike as being like the ‘first and second steps’ on the way to the grander objective of Dove Crag.
A grand perch on the eastern arm of the classic Fairfield Horseshoe
Its status as a rise on a relatively narrow, steep and linear ridgeline means that High Pike is usually approached directly from Low Pike to the south or from Dove Crag to the north. Any other ways up are pathless, steep and potentially unpleasant. Incredibly, a drystone wall runs along the entirety of the ridge’s spine, all the way from the valley to Hart Crag’s rocky top at 2,697 feet (822 m).
The wall blocks views west from the summit cairn, but it’s worth hopping over for a grand vista of Lakeland’s southern mountains. To the northeast are the rolling fells and ridges of the High Street family, a fine contrast to the sharper peaks in the west.
With its many accommodation options and amenities, Ambleside is the obvious base for adventures to High Pike.
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
April 28, 2021
Hiking
September 7, 2019
Hiking
May 11, 2022
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near View of Windermere from High Pike
4.8
(495)
3,931
hikers
17.7km
06:01
890m
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The Fairfield Horseshoe from Ambleside offers a challenging circular hike through the Lake District National Park, renowned for its incredible panoramic views. This difficult route covers 11.0 miles (17.7 km) with a significant elevation gain of 2918 feet (889 metres), typically taking around 6 hours and 1 minutes to complete. You will encounter varied terrain, from grassy paths and rocky climbs to some scrambles, all while enjoying expansive vistas of Lake Windermere, Rydal Water, and Grasmere, with the dramatic crags of Fairfield's northern side adding to the visual appeal.
Planning your visit requires a good level of fitness and experience, as this is considered a full-day mountain walk. Be prepared for potentially boggy sections, especially on the east side of the horseshoe, and steep, tricky descents. While paths are generally well-defined, navigation can be challenging on Fairfield's broad summit, particularly in poor visibility, so carrying a compass and knowing how to use it is essential to stay on track.
This trail is celebrated as a classic fell walk, offering one of the most satisfying circular routes in the region. It allows you to 'bag' numerous Wainwright peaks, including Fairfield, Hart Crag, and Dove Crag, all in one outing. The route also features a long dry stone wall on its eastern side, which aids navigation, and passes historical sites like Rydal Mount, once home to William Wordsworth, adding a cultural layer to your adventure.
4.8
(20)
227
hikers
17.1km
05:47
760m
760m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.5
(11)
150
hikers
9.94km
03:38
580m
580m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 620 m
Good to know
Family Friendly
yes
Wheelchair access
no
Dog Friendly
yes
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Friday 7 August
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Max wind speed: 18.0 km/h
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