Stony Cove Pike from Kirkstone Pass

Kirkstone Pass is a high place to start any walk. A short climb brings you on to the long broad ridge heading for Stony Cove Pike. The return is via the same route. It is an easy way to get reluctant walkers on to the higher fells or in this case in winter conditions.

The Walk

Stoney Cove Pike 2502′. Many use Kirkstone Pass (due to its height) as the gateway to the Far Eastern Fells. The first main peak is Stony Cove Pike (Caudale Moor) before joining the heart of the area. Many will continue to Thornthwaite Crag and onto High Street. I have often used this route but unfortunately ignored what is a fine ridge which opens out to excellent views to Brothers Water and Ullswater.

The Kirkstone Pass Inn (sadly closed, possibly permanently as of 2024) lies at nearly 1,500 foot and has plenty of parking. It is a steep start. The rock face of St Raven’s Edge offers some good scrambling opportunities before leading on to a broad ridge. The ridge is rugged but easy, perfect for any youngster venturing on to the fells for the first time. No tedious grassy slopes here! The summit is also well placed for views of the Far Eastern Fells. The return via the same route is still full of interest, different views and challenging scrambly terrain very entertaining. I took these photos on a snowy day. It was lovely, nothing like walking in the high fells with snow underfoot.

Recommend

With the closure of the Kirkstone Pass Inn there is an alternative walk (longer) for anyone still wishing to complete Stony Cove Pike. Start at the Brothers Inn pub and start by walking up the road to the Kirkstone Pass for the walks start. The return via the steep southern ridge of Caudale is certainly dramatic but highly enjoyable.

Navigation Tips on Stony Cove Pike

Its a rare walk when you have to return via the same route. This is the case here. However when a return route is in such dramatic scenery it does not seem to matter!