Seat Sandal to Helvellyn from Dunmail Raise

Helvellyn is a mighty peak and the third highest in England. The most popular route of ascent follows Striding Edge, but this walk takes in several other peaks to the south before making its way to the highest point along the eastern fells. Starting off just near the summit of Dunmail Raise, the first part of the ascent follows the good path along Raise Beck, with a few rocky sections offering a bit of excitement. Seat Sandal is the first peak reached on this walk, which offers the best views of the day south to the Vale of Grasmere. For even better views, head about 100m south of the summit cairn.

The descent to Grisedale Tarn is steep, but this secluded mountain tarn has a distinct charm about it and worth a sit-down for a couple of minutes. After the next section of ascent to Dollywagon Pike, the route follows a ridge walk along the top of Nethermost Pike and eventually onto Helvellyn from the south. The summit is higher than all but two peaks in view, offering a wide open vista stretching as far north as Scotland, to the Pennines in the east and Blackpool Tower in the south. To get the best view of Striding Edge on the east side of Helvellyn, head about 150m south-east of the summit cairn and shelter to the edge of the great hollow, with Red Tarn below. The path down heads over Birk Side and around Comb Crags. The views from the lower section of the path to Thirlmere are truly superb on a sunny day, with the lake snaking its way north towards Skiddaw.

England - North England - Cumbria - Lake District - South East

Walkingworld members near this walk

Walk id: 6248

Walk grade

Mountain Challenge

Length

9.3 Miles

Height gain

1100 Metres

Duration

5 Hours 35 Mins

Average rating

Rated by 0 members

Dog rated by 0 members