Description
Experience One of the Lake District’s Most Dramatic Ridges
Discover the spectacular western Lake District on our Illgill Head and Whin Rigg Guided Hike. This rewarding mountain adventure takes you above the shores of Wastwater, England’s deepest lake, and across one of the most dramatic ridges in the Lake District National Park.
With two Wainwright summits, incredible views and the famous Wastwater Screes as your backdrop, this is a fantastic guided hike for anyone looking to explore a quieter side of the Lake District.
The route offers a brilliant combination of mountain scenery, challenging climbs and spectacular viewpoints. It also gives you a chance to experience the rugged beauty of Wasdale without the crowds found on some of the Lake District’s more famous peaks.
A Spectacular Journey Above Wastwater
First, we’ll begin our ascent towards Illgill Head, gradually gaining height above the shores of Wastwater.
As we climb higher, the views become more impressive. Looking back, you’ll see Wastwater stretching into the distance, surrounded by some of the Lake District’s most impressive mountains.
Next, we’ll reach the summit of Illgill Head, standing at 726 metres. This Wainwright summit provides an incredible viewpoint across Wasdale and towards the surrounding Western Fells.
From here, we’ll continue along the ridge towards Whin Rigg, taking in the dramatic landscape as we go.
The Famous Wastwater Screes
One of the highlights of this hike is the incredible view across the Wastwater Screes.
Rising dramatically from the eastern shore of Wastwater, the screes create one of the Lake District’s most recognisable landscapes. Their steep slopes fall towards the lake, creating a truly impressive mountain scene.
As we continue towards Whin Rigg, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to stop, catch your breath and take in the views.
Finally, we’ll reach the summit of Whin Rigg, our second Wainwright of the day.
From the summit, enjoy spectacular views across Wastwater, Wasdale Head and the surrounding mountains. On a clear day, you can see towards some of the highest peaks in England, including Scafell Pike.
Why You’ll Love This Guided Hike
This route offers a fantastic combination of mountain adventure and incredible scenery.
You’ll experience two Wainwright summits while exploring one of the Lake District’s most dramatic landscapes. The views across Wastwater alone make this a memorable mountain day.
Your qualified and experienced mountain guide will take care of the navigation, pacing and safety throughout the hike. That means you can focus on enjoying the challenge and taking in the scenery.
This guided hike takes place within the Lake District National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the UK’s most spectacular mountain landscapes.
What to Expect
- A fully guided Illgill Head and Whin Rigg hike
- Summit two Wainwrights
- Incredible views across Wastwater
- Experience the dramatic Wastwater Screes
- Spectacular views towards Scafell Pike and the Western Fells
- Explore the beautiful Wasdale Valley
- Quiet mountain paths away from the busiest Lake District routes
- Small, friendly groups
- Qualified and experienced mountain guides throughout
Is This Hike for You?
This is a challenging mountain hike suitable for walkers with a good level of fitness and some previous hill walking experience.
Expect steep climbs, uneven paths and rough mountain terrain. The route includes sustained ascent and descent, so you’ll need to be comfortable walking for several hours in the mountains.
There are no technical scrambling sections on the planned route. However, some areas are steep and rocky, particularly around the ridge.
Important Information
- A good level of fitness is required.
- Previous hill walking experience is recommended.
- Mountain terrain can be steep, rocky and uneven.
- Your guide has the final decision on participation and route choice for safety.
- You must make your own way to the meeting point.
- The route may be adjusted if weather or mountain conditions require it.
What to Bring
- Packed lunch and snacks to keep your energy levels up
- At least 2 litres of water
- Sturdy hiking boots with good grip
- Waterproof jacket and trousers
- Warm layers suitable for mountain conditions
- Hat and gloves
- A comfortable rucksack suitable for a full day in the mountains
Book Your Illgill Head & Whin Rigg Guided Hike
Ready to discover one of the Lake District’s most dramatic mountain landscapes?
Join us for an unforgettable Illgill Head and Whin Rigg Guided Hike above the shores of Wastwater. Summit two Wainwrights, experience the famous Wastwater Screes and enjoy spectacular views across the Western Fells.
If you’re looking for a quieter Lake District adventure with incredible scenery, this could be the perfect hike for you.
Book your place today and experience the spectacular Illgill Head and Whin Rigg ridge for yourself.
