Helvellyn by the Edges

• The mountain to climb – deservedly
• Two contrasting ridges
• Ullswater seen at its best

Helvellyn by the edges is probably the most recognized climb in the Lake District. The approach via Striding Edge would be a classic approach to any summit and I certainly feel it is the best. Whatever the conditions Striding Edge is impressive and similar to most walkers I do like a bit of scrambling to enliven a climb. Add in Swirral Edge and the graceful peak of Catstycam and I have found that the circuit of Red Tarn a real pleasure. Even approaching the summit of Helvellyn the plaque with the legend of the dog who stayed with its deceased owner on the mountain for 3 months adds to the pleasure. What always strikes me when I reach the summit is the number of people who just emerge from different directions and routes. The full Helvellyn ridge from Fairfield to Clough Head is a great ridge route but I do sympathise with those who have hacked up the less inspiring western slopes above Thirlmere. There are alternative paths/routes on the lower slopes of Helvellyn which are more pleasant than the heavily eroded tracks. The erosion is a massive challenge on Helvellyn, the loose rock above Striding and Swirral Edges offering a much greater challenge to walkers than the ridges themselves. The Fix the Fells project led by the Lake District Park Authority and the National Trust are doing a fine job where they can but they need support in these days of austerity – download the factsheet at http://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk/index/caringfor/projects/upland_paths.htm .

Recommend: Stick to the high crest on the ridges, particularly on Striding Edge it is magical. The lower paths avoid most of the scrambling but also most of the interest.

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© Crown copyright 2010 Ordnance Survey. Image produced from the Ordnance Survey Get-a-map service. Image reproduced with kind permission of Ordnance Survey and Ordnance Survey of Northern Ireland.

OS Map:	O/S 1.25,000. OL5 The English Lakes North Eastern Area
Start Point:	385170. On the west side of the river take the first lane (left) past the shops and on to the broad ridge and lovely grassy path of the lower slopes of Birkhouse Moor. The main path up Mires Beck I find a bit of a slog.
Terrain:	Helvellyn is badly eroded but on the slopes these can be avoided - see the route. The upper slopes cannot be avoided on and around the 2 ridges
Eating & Drinking:	The Travellers Rest at the top end of Glenridding certainly effected my choice of descent, cross the bridge to the east and then sit outside and enjoy the views
Similar Walks Nearby:	A Fistful of Dodds Hayeswater & the Angletarn Crags Ridges over Dovedale
Places to Stay: