Scafell Pike via Brown Tongue from Wasdale Green

Scafell Pike via Brown Tongue is one of the most iconic and straightforward routes to the summit of England’s highest mountain. Starting from Wasdale Green, this route is ideal if you’re staying at Wasdale Head and want direct access to the mountain without needing to drive or secure parking in the valley. Although the path is clear in good weather and follows the same trail for both ascent and descent, the terrain becomes rocky, steep, and demanding as you climb higher.

This walk offers an exhilarating journey through the dramatic Hollow Stones area and right into the rugged heart of the Scafell Pike massif - perfect for first-time visitors to the region.

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Why Start from Wasdale Green?

Beginning your Scafell Pike walk from Wasdale Green is ideal if you’re:

• Staying at Wasdale Head Inn, nearby campsites, B&Bs or self-catering accommodation
• Arriving via summer public transport into Wasdale
• Wanting to avoid the congested and often muddy roadside parking directly on the green
• For those travelling by car, the National Trust Lake Head car park is the recommended and most sustainable option.

1. Wasdale Green to Lingmell Beck

From the green, walk south along the road until you reach a sharp right-hand bend. Here, take the signposted footpath heading south-east across fields towards Lingmell Beck. Cross the wooden footbridge, turn right, and pass through a gate into a grazing field.

2. Climbing to the Lower Slopes of Lingmell

The path rises steadily for about 600 metres through grassy slopes, eventually topping out on the lower shoulder of Lingmell. After a short descent you’ll join the main Lingmell Gill path, one of the most popular trails for climbing Scafell Pike from Wasdale.

3. The Ford at Lingmell Gill and Ascent of Brown Tongue

You now follow a rocky, well-trodden trail beside Lingmell Gill until reaching the ford crossing. This is usually manageable, but can be difficult in spate conditions after heavy rain.

Beyond the stream, the trail climbs the steep grassy ridge of Brown Tongue - a tough section but well-engineered with rocky steps and slabs. Continue at a steady pace until you reach a cairn marking the entrance to Hollow Stones at around 550 m.

4. Through Hollow Stones to Lingmell Col

The next kilometre takes you through the dramatic boulder fields of Hollow Stones, surrounded by towering crags including Pikes Crag and Scafell Crags. The path then zig-zags up to easier gravel terrain, eventually reaching the broad saddle between Lingmell and Scafell Pike at around 750 m. The views here open dramatically towards Great Gable and the northern fells.

5. Final Ascent to Scafell Pike Summit

Turn right at the col for the final 1 km push to the summit. The rocky and sometimes indistinct path climbs steeply via cairns towards a large marker at 900 m. From here, the gradient eases slightly for the final stretch across bouldery ground.

The summit cairn - a large circular stone platform - is unmistakable in clear weather and marks the highest point in England (978 m).

Descent Back to Wasdale Green

Retrace your steps carefully, making sure to pick up the right line from the summit, as multiple paths converge and can be confusing in poor visibility. Aim for the large 900 m cairn, then descend back to Lingmell Col, Hollow Stones, and the Brown Tongue path.

After re-crossing the ford at Lingmell Gill, pay attention to where you need to leave the main trail. At around 220 m, a signed path leads back across Lingmell’s lower spur and down into Wasdale Green.

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Guided Scafell Pike Walks

Fully immerse yourself in your Scafell Pike experience - without worrying about navigation or route planning - with an expert-guided walk. Run throughout the year, our Scafell Pike Open Days are guaranteed to take place, regardless of booking numbers. Check out our upcoming dates »

Alternatively, if you want to explore Scafell Pike with friends, colleagues or family, why not book one of our Mountain Leaders for a private guided walk?

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