The best mountain hikes around Colton
5.0
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10
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3
hikes
Mountaineering routes around Colton are situated in a region characterized by rugged fells, deep valleys, and numerous tarns. The landscape features prominent peaks and exposed ridges, offering challenging ascents and panoramic views. This area provides a classic British mountaineering experience with varied terrain.
Best mountaineering routes around Colton
- The most popular mountaineering route is Coniston Waterfall – Old Man of Coniston summit loop from Coniston, a 6.5 miles (10.5 km) trail that takes 4 hours 18 minutes to complete.…
Last updated: May 6, 2026
5.0
(1)
6
hikers
10.5km
04:18
700m
700m
Moderate mountaineering route. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
2
hikers
11.7km
04:42
890m
890m
Moderate mountaineering route. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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2
hikers
7.26km
03:10
590m
590m
Moderate mountaineering route. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Tips from the Community
On a clear day, the views are spectacular from up here.
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With a summit height of 2,502 feet (763 m), Wetherlam offers a truly rewarding hiking experience amidst the stunning mountain scenery of the Lake District. From the top, enjoy expansive views of the Coniston Fells, Little Langdale, and the picturesque patchwork of green valleys that give the region its timeless charm. https://www.tellpopeyes.it.com
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This is the route you take to go up Coniston Old Man from Low Water. The path takes you up a series of sharp and steep zigzags, and as you reach the top, you hang a right along the ridge to the trig point and the nearby summit cairn. It is a great route to get to the top with fantastic views.
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Great Carrs is at the top of the ridge of Wet Side edge that descends from Swirl How to the summit of Wrynose Pass. It is a Wainwright in its own right and has very little reascent when coming from Swirl How. On an ascent from Wrynose Pass it is a welcome sight because Swirl How isn't much further.
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The corrie between Coniston Old Man and Dow Crag is called The Cove and located in this is the small tarn of Goat's Water. The path skirts the eastern shore before ascending north to Goat's Hause. The views up to the crags of Dow Crag are impressive.
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There has been much debate over which is the higher: Swirl How or Coniston Old Man? They have both been comprehensively measured and are both currently 802.4m (2633ft in old money). Both measurements are accepted by the OS but the current maps show Swirl How as 802m and the Old Man as 803m. Why does it matter? Only one can be a Marilyn while the other must be classed as a Hump though they could be twin peaks. Currently the view is Coniston Old Man remains as the Marilyn and Swirl How is only a Hump. So the Historic County Top of the County Palatine of Lancashire, Coniston Old Man remains the higher. Swirl How is a very fine hill with a much more interesting ridge structure than the Old Man. Approaches from all directions are rewarding and exciting and there is a good chance you can enjoy solitude by the summit cairn which doesn’t suffer the crowds the Old Man does. Enjoy!
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There are a few pieces of undercarriage wreckage near here of the Halifax bomber that crashed here on 22nd October 1944 killing all 8 crew of 7 Canadians and 1 Brit. Most of the plane ended up in the corrie to the east. There is a memorial here to the crew.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountaineering routes are available around Colton?
There are currently 3 mountaineering routes detailed in this guide for the Colton area, all offering a moderate challenge for hikers.
Are there any circular mountaineering routes in Colton?
Yes, all the mountaineering routes featured in this guide are circular. For example, you can explore the Coniston Waterfall – Old Man of Coniston summit loop from Coniston, or the Wetherlam – Summit of Swirl How loop from Holme Fell.
What kind of views can I expect on these mountaineering routes?
The routes around Colton offer expansive views of rugged fells and deep valleys. You'll encounter prominent peaks and exposed ridges. Notable viewpoints and summits include the Old Man of Coniston summit, Brim Fell summit, and Swirl How, providing breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding landscape.
Are there any mountain passes to explore near Colton?
Yes, the area around Colton features several significant mountain passes. You can find highlights like Wrynose Pass and Kirkstone Pass, which are popular for their dramatic scenery and challenging ascents.
What is the best time of year for mountaineering in Colton?
The best time for mountaineering in Colton is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to October) when the weather is generally more stable and daylight hours are longer. However, the rugged fells offer a unique experience year-round, provided you are prepared for rapidly changing conditions.
What should I wear for mountaineering in Colton?
Given the region's characteristic rugged fells and exposed ridges, it's crucial to dress in layers. Always bring waterproof and windproof outer layers, sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support, and appropriate warm clothing, even in summer, as weather can change quickly at higher elevations.
Are the mountaineering trails around Colton dog-friendly?
Many trails in the Lake District, including those around Colton, are dog-friendly. However, it's essential to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock and during ground-nesting bird seasons. Always carry water for your dog and clean up after them.
What do other mountaineers say about the routes in Colton?
The mountaineering routes in Colton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Users often praise the challenging yet rewarding experiences, the stunning panoramic views, and the classic British mountaineering feel of the fells.
Are there any hidden gems or less-traveled routes for mountaineering near Colton?
While all routes in this guide are well-regarded, the Wetherlam loop from Holme Fell offers a slightly shorter, yet equally rewarding, experience through mountainous terrain, providing a chance to explore the fells away from the most popular summits.
What kind of wildlife might I spot while mountaineering in Colton?
The fells and valleys around Colton are home to various wildlife. Keep an eye out for native bird species, including birds of prey, and you might also spot hardy fell ponies or sheep grazing on the hillsides. Always observe from a distance and avoid disturbing animals.
Are there cafes or pubs near the mountaineering routes in Colton?
While the routes themselves are in rugged, natural settings, you'll find traditional pubs and cafes in nearby villages like Coniston or those accessible from Holme Fell. These offer a perfect spot to refuel and relax after your mountaineering adventure.
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