The best waterfall hikes and walks around Easedale Tarn

There are over 130 hiking trails around Easedale Tarn that feature waterfalls. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from moderate paths to more challenging mountain ascents, ensuring options for different ability levels.

The terrain around Easedale Tarn is diverse, characterized by its central tarn, surrounding fells, and notable waterfalls like Sourmilk Gill. You'll encounter a mix of open farmland, charming stone bridges, and rugged paths. Some sections can be steep, rocky, and potentially boggy, especially after rain, so appropriate footwear is highly recommended.

While many routes in the Easedale Tarn area can be challenging, there are options suitable for families. The region offers 20 easy routes and 69 moderate routes, some of which feature waterfalls. It's advisable to check the specific route details for elevation and terrain to ensure it matches your family's capabilities.

Yes, many of the trails around Easedale Tarn are dog-friendly, allowing your canine companion to enjoy the stunning scenery and fresh air. However, always keep dogs under control, especially near livestock, and be mindful of other hikers and wildlife. Some areas may require dogs to be on a lead.

Beyond the beautiful Easedale Tarn itself, a significant natural attraction is Sourmilk Gill, a magnificent waterfall that cascades down a rocky slope. The area is also surrounded by impressive fells like Tarn Crag and Blea Rigg, offering incredible mountain views and a sense of being immersed in the Cumbrian landscape.

Yes, there are several circular routes that allow you to experience the waterfalls and return to your starting point. For a challenging option, consider the Easedale Valley Waterfall – View of Easdale Tarn loop from The English Lake District WHS, which is a difficult 23.9 km hike with significant elevation gain.

Easedale Tarn is beautiful year-round. After rainfall, waterfalls like Sourmilk Gill are particularly dramatic and impressive. Summer offers pleasant conditions for hiking and even wild swimming in the tarn. In winter, the fells can offer a deep snow experience, but conditions can be challenging and require appropriate gear and experience.

Given the varied terrain, which can be steep, rocky, and boggy, especially after rain, appropriate footwear is essential. Waterproof hiking boots are highly recommended year-round. Layered clothing is also advisable to adapt to changing weather conditions in the Lake District.

While Sourmilk Gill is a waterfall, the main wild swimming spot is Easedale Tarn itself. Near the top of Sourmilk Gill, there's even a 'fairy pool' for a dip. The tarn gets deep quickly, and while popular spots exist, quieter areas can be found further around its shores for a refreshing swim after your hike.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 10,000 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning natural beauty, the impressive cascades of Sourmilk Gill, and the panoramic mountain views from the surrounding fells. The variety of routes also allows for tailored experiences.

For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the The Langdale Pikes - Pavey Ark, Thunacar Knott and Pike of Stickle is a difficult 11.7 km trail that takes approximately 4 hours 23 minutes. This route features significant elevation gain through mountainous terrain and offers spectacular views.

The picturesque village of Grasmere is easily accessible from many of the Easedale Tarn trails and offers a selection of cafes and pubs where you can relax and refuel after your hike. It's a great place to enjoy local hospitality and reflect on your outdoor adventure.

The elevation gain varies significantly depending on the chosen route. For instance, a difficult route like the Loft Crag Summit – Harrison Stickle loop from Great Langdale involves over 620 meters of ascent, taking you up into the fells for expansive views. Even moderate routes can have noticeable climbs, so checking the route profile is always a good idea.