Blencathra

Distance: 4.5miles/7km
Ascent: 773 metres
Start: Comb Beck bridge, NE of Scales Farm, CA12 4SY
Info: wildrunning.net/2111

Directions: Take the path up Comb Beck into Mousthwaite Comb, curving R uphill to the path junction on the col at NY 346278. Turn L and follow the path, staying R above the Glenderamackin River to Scales Beck. Turn L to ascend the steep-stepped path to the track junction to the east of Scales Tarn. Our route turns L here along the steep path to the south of Scales Tarn and up to the summit of Blencathra. The other option is to turn R and climb the classic grade 1 scramble Sharp Edge – it’s an enjoyable challenge but requires care and a cool head, especially if it’s wet or windy. Turn L at the top of the scramble and follow the path to the summit (2.4 miles/3.9km). From the summit turn around and head east along the ridge then down the zig-zags to Scales Fell. Continue downhill trending L to join the outbound path in Mousthwaite Comb, and turn R to return to the start.