HOW TO CLIMB STRIDING EDGE
How to Climb Striding Edge
To go and climb Striding edge has to be one of the most iconic ridges in the Lake District, renowned for its stunning views and challenging terrain.
With its steep incline and narrow path, climbing Striding Edge is not for the faint of heart, but those who undertake the journey are rewarded with an experience unlike any other. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first-time climber, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to tackle Striding Edge with confidence.
Climbing Striding edge on Helvellyn is an amazing mountain journey. Helvellyn being the name of the mountain summit on that striding edge sits on the Southeast of the mountain summit. Over the year’s Helvellyn via striding edge has become a super popular mountain climb in the Lake District and on a sunny weekend can be a very busy place. It recently got nominated as England’s most popular mountain walk and for very good reason.
Once you are on the summit you can be treated with panoramic views across the lakes … assuming the weather is kind to you of course!
A Look into the History of Striding Edge
Striding Edge has a rich and fascinating history that goes back hundreds of years. This ridge was originally used as a trade route by locals, who would travel between the towns of Ambleside and Patterdale. Over time, it became a popular spot for walkers and hikers, who were drawn to its breathtaking views and challenging terrain.
Today, Striding Edge remains one of the most sought-after climbing destinations in the Lake District, attracting adventurers from all over the world.
The Difficulty of Climbing Striding Edge
Striding Edge is considered one of the most challenging ridges in the Lake District, and it is not suitable for beginners or those who are afraid of heights.
The steep incline and narrow path can be intimidating, and there are several sections where a misstep could result in a dangerous fall. That being said, with proper preparation and a cautious approach, climbing Striding Edge is an achievable goal for those with a good level of fitness and a head for heights.
Preparation Before Climbing Striding Edge
Before you set off on your Striding Edge climb, it’s important to make sure you’re properly prepared. This includes getting in good physical shape, as the climb is strenuous and requires a high level of fitness.
You should also familiarize yourself with the trail, including the terrain and any potential hazards, to ensure you are fully prepared for the journey ahead. Additionally, it’s essential to bring the right gear, including proper footwear, clothing, and a backpack to carry any supplies you might need. As well as checking the weather.
When is best time to climb Striding edge?
Is Striding Edge ok for beginners?
***SCRAMBLING DEFINITIONs
Scrambling grades run from Grade 1 – doable for most competent hill walkers given the right conditions through to Grade 3 – borderline rock climbs in fantastically exposed situations where knowledge of ropework is often advisable, and Striding Edge comes in at the lower end of the first grade
Weather Conditions for Climbing Striding Edge
Where does Striding Edge Start from ?
What's the best way down Striding Edge ?
over must-do routes like Striding edge
- Jack Rake: an incredible grade one across the front of Pavy Arch, a real adventure. – Read about climbing Jack rake
- Catbells: A Lakeland classic and a must-do for every mountain walker regardless of ability or fitness – Read about Catbells
- Sharp Edge and Halls Fell Ridge: The Lake District’s scariest ridge line, Exposed and dangerous but a worthy day out in the mountain – read about scrambling on sharp Edge
- Over ways up Helvellyn: Striding edge is just one of many ways up Helvellyn if you don’t fancy it but want to make it to the top still there are other ways. Read about other ways up Helvellyn
- Lake District classic scrambles: The Lake District is full of epic scrambles check them out here – read about over must-do scrambles
Some of these routes are exposed and dangerous and whilst no technical equipment is required it is important to approach them with the right skills and understanding of being in the mountains. If you do not it is recommended that you take a mountaineering course
Additional Resources to help you climb Striding Edge
- Weather: Check the latest weather forecast for the area on websites such as the Met Office or the Mountain Weather Information Service:
- Met Office: https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/
- Mountain Weather Information Service: https://www.mwis.org.uk/
- Maps and guides: A map and a guidebook can be helpful for planning and navigating the walk. The Ordnance Survey’s Explorer OL5 map covers the area and is available for purchase online or at outdoor retail stores.
- Ordnance Survey: https://www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/shop/explorer-maps.html
- Safety information: It is important to be aware of the risks and dangers associated with Striding Edge and to take necessary safety precautions. Information on safety can be found on websites such as the Lake District National Park Authority and the British Mountaineering Council.
- Lake District National Park Authority: https://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk/visiting/advice-for-visitors/mountain-safety
- British Mountaineering Council: https://www.thebmc.co.uk/mountain-safety-guidance
- Starting point: The walk for Striding Edge starts from the car park at Glenridding, Ullswater in the Lake District, England. Here is a link to the location on Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/V8WpBcjvaz7m1RRm9
- Local information and guiding – www.lakedistrictadventuring.co.uk
These resources can provide helpful information on weather, maps, safety, and the starting point for the Striding Edge walk, and can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Jack Oliver
Jack is a Mountaineering Instructor and director of Adventuring. Over the last 12 years, Jack has climbed Striding Edge many many times in all weathers and is considered to be a local expert on the area.