Hiking Striding Edge - Helvellyn. One of the Lake Districts finest ridge walks.
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- Опубліковано 12 вер 2024
- Helvellyn is a magnificent mountain located in the Lake District between Thirlmere and Ullswater Lakes. Standing at an elevation of 950 meters, it proudly claims the title of the highest peak in the Helvellyn range. Two prominent ridges flank its summit: Striding Edge to the southeast and Swirral Edge to the northeast. Nestled between these two ridges lies Red Tarn, a small lake that adds to the dramatic landscape.
Striding Edge is particularly famous and challenging. It’s considered one of England’s most iconic Grade 1 scrambles. Here’s what you need to know if you’re considering this exhilarating route:
Starting Point: Begin your adventure from Glenridding, where you’ll find pay-and-display parking. From there, follow the path up Mires Beck via the “Hole in the Wall” stile.
The Ridge: As you ascend, you’ll encounter the spiky ridge of Striding Edge. The views of Red Tarn below are simply breathtaking. You have two options:
Direct Line: For maximum exposure, take the direct line up over the top of Striding Edge. The ridge starts off easy and gradually becomes more challenging.
Lower Route: Alternatively, choose the slightly lower route on the right-hand side. It’s less demanding and offers some protection.
Helvellyn Summit: Once you conquer Striding Edge, you’ll reach Helvellyn’s top. The views are spectacular, with Ullswater and Thirlmere glinting in the sun on clear days. Look out for the memorial to artist Charles Gough, who tragically lost his life here in 1805.
Crosswind Shelter: The summit area lacks natural protection from the weather, but there’s a stone-built “crosswind shelter” with low walls in the shape of an ‘X’. Take a seat, enjoy a snack, and chat with fellow hikers.
Completing the Horseshoe: To complete the Helvellyn horseshoe, follow the ridge down Swirral Edge. Be cautious, especially in bad weather. Swirral Edge is generally considered simpler than Striding Edge but still requires hands-on-rock scrambling.
Experience Required: Striding Edge is rated as a Grade 1 scramble, suitable for experienced hill walkers in good conditions. However, it’s not recommended for first-timers. Build up plenty of mountain experience before attempting it.
Remember, take your time, stay calm, and enjoy the adventure! Helvellyn via Striding Edge is a thrilling challenge that rewards you with stunning vistas and a sense of accomplishment.
Omg Gavin what a stunning video
Thank you very much Mary.
I appreciate you taking the time to view it 😊
Fabulous footage 👌 lovely video. 👌 ❤
Thank you very much indeed 😊
Great video Gav , always fancied doing it but I'm now that brave , those winds were unbelievable. Thanks for sharing
Hiya Simon,
Thanks very much mate and i hope you're keeping well.
You'd do that route no problem.
Yeah the wind up there was brutal.
How marvellous Gavin.How videos have improved since 1992,mine was an old VHS type.I have sent the video to my friend who now lives in Spain who came with me.
At 90 I now cannot imagine that I ever did it but as you say dowhike you can because the years fly by.
We walked down to Thirlmere where our wives were waiting for us in the car oark
Thank you very much for viewing Bryan i really appreciate it.
I do my best to travel and do all the things in life that i want to do because i realise how precious time is.
I bet you have some fabulous memories from over the years 😊