The 20 Most Amazing Peaks around Matterdale

Yes, Matterdale offers several options suitable for beginners. Catbells Summit is a classic Lakeland outing known for its fun terrain and spectacular views, making it a great introduction to fell walking. Its distinctive profile and mind-boggling views of the Borrowdale valley are highly appreciated by visitors.

For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, Helvellyn Summit is a top choice. As the third highest mountain in the Lake District, it offers magnificent views and routes like Striding Edge, which provides a memorable and exhilarating experience. Another option is Blencathra Summit, known for its two glorious ridges, including the grade one scramble up Sharp Edge.

Absolutely. Gowbarrow Fell summit is a gloriously accessible Wainwright summit on the northern shore of Ullswater. It's a great option for families and can be combined with a hike to Aira Force waterfall. The fell's summit area offers awesome views of Ullswater and the surrounding fells.

The best time to hike the mountains around Matterdale is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is typically milder, and the days are longer, offering better visibility and more comfortable hiking conditions. However, always check the local weather forecast before heading out, as conditions in the Lake District can change rapidly.

Beyond hiking, the Matterdale area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore numerous running trails, including loops around Aira Force and Gowbarrow Fell. For cyclists, there are diverse road cycling routes, such as the Ullswater Lakeshore Road or routes passing Castlerigg Stone Circle. Of course, there are also many dedicated hiking routes for all skill levels.

Many popular trailheads around Matterdale, especially those leading to well-known peaks or attractions like Aira Force, offer designated parking areas. For example, routes around Gowbarrow Fell often have parking available near Aira Force. However, during peak season, these can fill up quickly, so arriving early is advisable. Always check specific route details for parking information.

Yes, the region is well-suited for circular walks. Many routes are designed to form loops, allowing you to experience diverse scenery without retracing your steps. For instance, the Helvellyn horseshoe ridge, incorporating Striding Edge and Swirral Edge, is a classic circular route. You can find various circular options within the hiking guide for Matterdale.

From the mountain peaks around Matterdale, you can expect breathtaking natural features. Summits like Skiddaw Summit offer phenomenal views of the Lakeland landscape to the south, including vast fells and valleys. Many peaks provide panoramic vistas of lakes such as Ullswater and Derwent Water, along with dramatic ridges and craggy outcrops.

Visitors consistently praise the spectacular and mind-boggling views from the summits, especially those overlooking the Borrowdale valley or Ullswater. The diverse terrain, from fun scrambles to challenging ridges, is also a major draw. Many appreciate the sense of achievement and the opportunity to experience classic Lakeland outings, often noting the beauty of the landscape even on windy days.

While many peaks are popular, exploring slightly less-trodden paths can reveal hidden gems. The 'Back o’ Skiddaw' area, for instance, is known for being wild and remote, offering a different kind of solitude compared to the more frequented summits. Researching local guides or asking experienced hikers can uncover quieter routes and viewpoints away from the main crowds.

Many of the mountain trails and fells around Matterdale are dog-friendly, allowing well-behaved dogs on leads. However, it's crucial to be mindful of livestock, especially during lambing season, and to keep dogs under close control. Some areas might have stiles that are difficult for larger dogs, and always ensure your dog has enough water, especially on longer hikes.

While the immediate vicinity of some mountain trails might be remote, you can find cafes and facilities in the nearby villages and towns surrounding Matterdale, such as Glenridding, Pooley Bridge, or Keswick. These locations offer places to refuel before or after your hike. Some popular spots like Helvellyn might have huts or shelters, but these typically don't offer food services, so it's best to bring your own provisions.