Scafell Mountain

Scafell is a mountain in the Lake District, Cumbria, England, with a summit at 964 metres and is one of the highest peaks in the English Lake District.

Walkers encounter steep, rocky ridges and classic Lakeland mountain scenery, with panoramic views from the summit across neighbouring fells and valleys on clear days. Popular approaches include routes from Wasdale Head and traverses linking to neighbouring peaks in the Scafell massif.

The hills of the Lake District have long been used for grazing and upland farming; Scafell became a common objective for recreational hillwalking from the 19th century as outdoor leisure grew in Britain.

Sited within the Lake District National Park in Cumbria, Scafell sits between the Wasdale and Eskdale valleys and is accessible from nearby fell-side villages and roadheads in western Lakeland.

• Height and rank: Summit elevation is 964 metres, making it the second-highest peak in England after Scafell Pike.
• Routes and terrain: Common ascent routes approach from Wasdale and from Eskdale via the Scafell massif; terrain includes steep rock faces and mountain paths requiring good footwear.

Scafell (often referenced with Scafell Pike and the Scafell massif) is accessible from valley bases such as Wasdale Head, Seathwaite (Borrowdale) and Eskdale. The nearest towns with services include Wasdale and Keswick; driving from Keswick or Ambleside and parking at established car parks is the common approach. Note remote mountain roads and variable weather.

• Start very early from Wasdale Head if planning to summit-weather and daylight matter, and the route is steep and rocky.
• Check fell conditions and bring appropriate mountain gear; Scafell's routes include exposed scrambling.
• Use the Wasdale route for the classic ascent; other approaches (via Eskdale or Seathwaite) are longer but less crowded.