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Striding Edge – Helvellyn Summit loop from Patterdale

Routes

Hiking trails & Routes

Striding Edge – Helvellyn Summit loop from Patterdale

Hard

4.7

(92)

994

hikers

Striding Edge – Helvellyn Summit loop from Patterdale

05:34

14.5km

850m

Hiking

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: August 18, 2026

Tips

Includes segments that may be dangerous

Parts of this route comprise highly technical, difficult, or hazardous terrain. Specialist equipment and prior experience is required.

After 5.28 km for 604 m

After 5.95 km for 18 m

Waypoints

Start point

Bus stop

Get Directions

74 m

Glenridding Village

Highlight • Pub

Glenridding is a superb base for your adventures in the Eastern Fells of the Lake District. It is the popular starting point for Helvellyn, one of Britain's most beloved mountains, giving access the majestic Red Tarn and the exciting ridges of Striding and Swirral Edge. However, there's more than just Helvellyn to enjoy here, with other classics like Place Fell and St Sunday Crag also within reach.

The village has many accommodation options, as well as excellent independent gear shops. Refreshment can be sought in the cafes and pubs, whilst neighbouring Patterdale is only a short walk away.

The Ullswater Steamers launch from Glenridding Pier and can take you across the lake to Howtown, Pooley Bridge and Aira Force.

Tip by

2.59 km

View of Ullswater

Highlight • Viewpoint

Great view of Ulsterwater

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4.68 km

View of Helvellyn and Catstye Cam

Highlight • Viewpoint

Stunning viewpoint of the route ahead, Helvellyn summit and across to Catstye Cam. Even better on a blue sky day.

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5.63 km

Striding Edge

Highlight • Climb

With spine-tingling exposure on both sides and breathtaking views, Striding Edge is an exhilarating stretch that you will not forget. A classic grade one scramble, it's suitable for intermediate hikers and a perfect opportunity for those looking to try scrambling for the first time. Don't underestimate this route, though, and avoid in bad weather.

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5.88 km

View of Red Tarn and Striding Edge

Highlight • Lake

Red Tarn is a small lake at the foot of Helvellyn. Ideal place to rest or have something to eat before starting the ascent.

Translated by Google •

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5.91 km

Striding Edge

Highlight • Summit

I couldn't see striding edge because of the weather..

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6.24 km

Helvellyn Summit

Highlight • Summit

Up there with Britain’s best-loved mountains, Helvellyn is home to a horseshoe ridge of legendary quality. First comes Striding Edge, a knife-edge arête with a tantalisingly-good tightrope path edging along the crest, before bagging the summit and completing your high-level loop of Red Tarn via the rocky staircase of Swirral Edge.

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