Line © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL), checked by Global Adventurer.
The walk
The walk starts from a free car park at Scales and goes out and back on the walkers' way up Blencathra, also called Saddleback from its shape seen from the east. It climbs onto Scales Fell (682 m), then continues west to the summit, Hallsfell Top (868 m), which stands above a ring of steep ridges and combes. It is on path almost all the way.
It is 6.3 km with 638 m of ascent; allow about 4 hours. The grade is Moderate: the climb onto Scales Fell is steep, but the path is clear and there is no scrambling. Sharp Edge, nearby, is a scramble and not part of this route.
The summit is ringed by steep drops, so in mist keep to the path and navigate off the top with care. Carry a map and compass, check the forecast and use your judgement. Winter snow and ice make the upper slopes far more serious. There are no mapped water sources on the route.
The car park is free.
Route drawn by Global Adventurer along OpenStreetMap paths (© OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL), with figures worked out from it. Check the forecast and the ground on the day: paths change.
Good to know
- Also called Saddleback, from its shape seen from the east
- Scales Fell is the walkers' way up; Sharp Edge is a scramble and not part of this route
- The summit is Hallsfell Top, above a ring of steep ridges and combes
Summits on the way
- Scales Fell 682 m
- Doddick Fell 742 m · passed close by
- Blencathra - Hallsfell Top 868 m
Getting there
Start: Scales · Free parking. 54.63280, -3.01861
Places to stay nearby
Rooms in and around Penrith (North Lakes): Booking.com → Expedia →
Affiliate links: if you book, Global Adventurer earns a small commission at no cost to you.
Paths change, and the weather decides the day. The line and figures come from OpenStreetMap and our own checks; take a map, check the forecast, and turn back if it isn't right.
