High Raise via Eagle Crag
Clamber on to a less-frequented summit and stride out along a broad ridge far from Lakeland’s madding crowds.
What’s not to love about this superb day on high? It combines some of the best aspects of Lake District walking: easy scrambling; some pathless, even secluded sections; broad ridges; far-reaching views; and cairn-topped summits from which to soak it all up.
The route starts from Rosthwaite, with Eagle Crag’s intimidating buttresses filling the scene ahead. They seem insurmountable from the valley, but a fairly straightforward route can be found to the summit – up a rocky gully and along a series of airy ledges.
Beyond Eagle Crag, a little-used trail leads to the second summit, Sergeant’s Crag, before rougher terrain is crossed to reach High Raise. This, at 762m, is the highest point on the route. It’s now time to stride out along a grassy ridge with fine views of the Helvellyn range to the east and climbing Ullscarf along the way.
Waterproof boots are put to the test beside Blea Tarn before dropping to Watendlath, a hamlet hidden in the folds of the fells. One final undulation on the route profile, so cruel at this stage in the long day, drops walkers back into Borrowdale.