The best mountain hikes around Eden

The Eden District offers a good selection of mountaineering routes, with over 25 different tours available on komoot. These routes provide access to the fells and valleys of the Lake District National Park, catering to various skill levels.

While many routes in Eden are challenging, there are a few options suitable for those new to mountaineering. The guide lists 2 easy routes and 11 moderate routes, which can be a good starting point. Always check the route details for specific difficulty and conditions.

Advanced mountaineers will find plenty of challenging ascents and dramatic ridge walks. For instance, the Striding Edge – Helvellyn Summit loop from Patterdale is a difficult route featuring the exposed Striding Edge ridge. Another demanding option is the Blencathra loop from Scales, which involves a significant ascent to the summit.

Yes, many of the mountaineering routes around Eden are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Blencathra loop from Threlkeld and the View of Red Tarn – Helvellyn Summit loop from Patterdale.

The Eden District, bordering the Lake District National Park, is rich in natural beauty. You can encounter stunning waterfalls like Aira Force or Cauldron Snout Waterfall. Many routes also offer views of serene tarns and lead to prominent summits such as Helvellyn Summit and dramatic ridges like Striding Edge.

The best time for mountaineering in Eden is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to October) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. During these months, conditions are typically more stable, making for more enjoyable and safer ascents.

Winter mountaineering in Eden, particularly on higher fells, requires significant experience, proper equipment (ice axe, crampons), and an understanding of avalanche risk. Conditions can change rapidly, with snow, ice, and strong winds common. It's advisable to check mountain weather forecasts and conditions before heading out.

The mountaineering routes in Eden are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.8 stars from over 20 reviews. Mountaineers often praise the challenging fells, dramatic ridges, and the serene beauty of the tarns and valleys encountered on these trails.

Generally, no specific permits are required for recreational mountaineering on public rights of way or open access land within the Eden District or the Lake District National Park. However, always respect private land and follow the Countryside Code.

Absolutely. The Eden District is close to numerous stunning tarns and lakes. Routes like the Small Water – Mardale Ill Bell loop from Branstree offer beautiful lakeside views. Many other routes provide panoramic vistas that include the region's iconic bodies of water.

For those seeking longer challenges, the View of Red Tarn – Striding Edge loop from Patterdale covers over 17 km with significant elevation gain. Another substantial route is the Patterdale Village – St Sunday Crag loop from Patterdale, which is nearly 16 km long.