The best mountain hikes around Colton
5.0
(1)
10
hikers
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. This route features a significant ascent to a prominent summit, offering expansive views of the surrounding fells.
- Another top favourite among local mountaineers is Wetherlam – Summit of Swirl How loop from Holme Fell, a moderate 7.2 miles (11.5 km) path. This trail navigates high fells and exposed ridges, providing a demanding yet rewarding experience.
- Local mountaineers also love the Wetherlam loop from Holme Fell, a 4.3 miles (7.0 km) trail leading through mountainous terrain, often completed in about 3 hours 7 minutes.
- Mountaineering around Colton is defined by rugged fells, exposed ridges, and deep valleys. The network offers options for different ability levels, with all routes in this guide rated as moderate.
- The routes in Colton are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 1 review. More than 10 mountaineers have used komoot to explore Colton's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 20, 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
To describe this mountain, here is a quote: "Although cruelly scarred and disfigured by the quarries, the Old Man has retained a dignified bearing and still lifts his proud and venerable head to the sky. His tears flow quietly into Low Water and Goats Water, two beautiful mountain tarns, whence they eventually... find their way to Coniston Water, bathing his ancient feet." Alfred Wainwright, "A Pictorial Guide to the Lakeland Fells, Book Four: The Southern Fells"
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A beautiful waterfall, but difficult to view in the summer due to dense vegetation.
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Very much one of the iconic mountains of the Lake District, Wetherlam is a rugged 763-metre (2,502 ft) mountain top, and getting here is pretty hard work from any direction. It has a rocky summit plateau, and the views across towards the Coniston group are super nice. Now for the big decent!
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Coming to Swirl How from Great Carr is an easy affair; getting to it from Wetherlam is a different matter. If you come in from that direction, you are in for a good scramble on the 'Prison Band' section of the approach. To be honest, I would rather come up it than down it, as it looked like a fun scramble. There is a decent cairn on the top of Swirl How, and the views across to Wetherlam are great.
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It is a nice walk to get to Great Carrs from Grey Friar, not too stiff at all, and the views across to Swirl How are great. The top is a bit of a rocky affair, and if you are on the way across to Swirl How it is nearly within throwing distance from here.
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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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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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