Climbing Grasmoor from Crummock Water is an unusual way to approach the mountain. It is a steep pull but the walk makes best use of the finest features of the Grasmoor round These are the western ridges of Whiteside and Lad Hows or, if you are feeling energetic, the Wainwright of Whiteless Pike.
Grasmoor is usually climbed as part of the popular Coledale Round. However the mountain itself is set a little off route from the classic circuit and therefore ‘an evil’ necessity. This route is also different in character to the main Coledale Round, being bulky and stolid rather than graceful! Of course the summit is a wonderful place with great views and adds to the day but it is not in practice part of the circuit. However there is an excellent alternative, start the climb from the Buttermere valley.
Forbidding as it looks from the road the steep pull up Whiteside from the Lorton Valley is an enjoyable route up Grasmoor. The ridge from Whiteside to Hopegill Head is one of my Lakeland favourites. It is exhilarating (particularly in the wind) but perfectly safe. A true reward for the effort to get there. The walk then passes through Coledale Hause towards the large bulk of Grasmoor. There is a leisurely ascent with spectacular and ever changing views of Buttermere. Pause for a moment and enjoy the vast range of high mountains laid out to the west and south including Great Gable and the Scafells. From the summit return sound down the steep but easy slopes of Lad Howes.
If you have the energy retrace your steps down Grasmoor and descend via Whiteless Pike and the lovely hidden valley of Rannerdale. However it does leave you further from the start point.
After passing Coledale Hause take the track south west for 300 metres. At this stage take the right fork path that sticks to the cliffs and has the best views.
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