Scafell by munki-boy

Scafell

Scafell is in The Lake District National Park in England.

The Scafell massif, located in the Lake District National Park in Cumbria, England, is a commanding and rugged range that includes Scafell Pike and Scafell, among other peaks. Scafell Pike, standing at 978 meters (3,209 feet), is the highest mountain in England and is often the primary focus for many hikers and climbers in the region. However, the massif as a whole, including Scafell, which is only slightly shorter at 964 meters (3,162 feet), offers a diverse and captivating landscape, rich in both natural beauty and climbing challenges.

Formed from the ancient volcanic activity of the Ordovician period and sculpted by the glaciers of the last Ice Age, the Scafell massif features a range of dramatic crags, deep valleys, and sharp ridges. This geological history has not only shaped the striking scenery but also created a variety of routes that appeal to walkers and climbers with different skill levels and preferences. The distinction between Scafell Pike and Scafell is not just in their elevation but also in their character and the experience they offer to visitors. While Scafell Pike often attracts larger crowds due to its status as the highest peak, Scafell provides a more secluded and perhaps more challenging ascent, with its notable feature, Scafell Crag, being a renowned destination for rock climbers.

The ascent of Scafell, separate from the more frequently visited Scafell Pike, involves navigating rocky paths and steep climbs, offering a more rugged and solitary experience. This area of the massif, with its challenging terrains like the infamous corridor route or the steep scramble up Lord’s Rake, provides a sense of adventure and solitude that is sometimes harder to find on the more popular routes up Scafell Pike.

From the summits of both Scafell Pike and Scafell, climbers are rewarded with spectacular views. The panoramic vistas encompass the entire Lake District, with its array of peaks, valleys, and lakes, including the deep Wast Water, England’s deepest lake. These views, coupled with the sense of achievement in scaling England’s highest points, make the Scafell massif a jewel in the crown of the Lake District.

The region is also a haven for wildlife and plants, especially adapted to the mountain environment. The lower slopes and woodlands are rich in biodiversity, including rare alpine plants and wildlife like birds of prey and red squirrels. The Scafell massif, with its blend of natural beauty, challenging peaks, and rich ecological tapestry, continues to be a premier destination for those seeking the tranquility, beauty, and adventure inherent in the English mountains.

Created: 4  April  2021  Edited: 29  November  2023

The Route to Scafall

Scafell Details

Scafell is a 963.9 metre high mountain in Cumbria.

Scafell

Scafell LiDAR Map

A LiDAR Map showing the area around Scafell

Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0

Scafell map

Scafell UK Map