The modest height of Loughrigg Fell disguises a wonderful fell. The ragged sheepdog style of rocky knolls, bracken strewn slopes and hollows and excellent all round views and numerous route possibilities make this a multi visit mountain.
Loughrigg Fell (1,101 ft) nestles at the southern end of Grasmere (Lake) and offers a western backdrop to Rydal Water. The fell epitomises all I like about the Lake District. Bracken strewn slopes and rocky outcrops compete for dominance. However look for the hidden grassy enclaves and remote tarns, perfect for picnics and hideaways. It is similar to Gowbarrow or Haystacks with the summit area a particular delight. The views of the surrounding, and usually larger, fells is excellent. The lakes add to the view making your main decision simply in which direction to stare. I particularly enjoy the less familiar view over Elterwater in to Langdale but there is something of interest in each direction.
The relatively low height does not detract from the variety of paths which can become somewhat confusing. The route I have picked is the most popular and starts and finishes at the River Rothay midway between Rydal Water and Grasmere. However I have added a second one to the sketch map from the small car park at the eastern end of Rydal Water. This route explores the less visited eastern flanks of Loughrigg and offers a better appreciation of the fell. Wainwright prefers the southern approach from Skelwith Bridge. However your choice makes little difference as every step on Loughrigg Fell is a delight.
The sketch map and gpx show the traditional route from the River Rothay.
This is definitely a multi visit fell, maybe start from Grasmere and follow up with your own choice.
Loughrigg Fell is an excellent area to practice your compass skills. Take some bearings near the summit and follow them to isolated knolls and across the rough, bracken filled ground. It is unlikely to be cloudy but the ground will make it seem so.
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