Dominating the skyline directly above Keswick, Skiddaw stands at a massive 931 metres (3,054 feet). If you want a clear path to a high peak, this classic Skiddaw walking route via Jenkin Hill is the perfect choice.
Let’s get one thing straight before you tie your laces: just because it isn’t technically difficult does not make it a walk in the park. To be completely honest, Skiddaw is a crazy, relentless mountain slog. I’ve had friends look up at it, turn around, and back out halfway up Jenkin Hill.
But I’m not trying to put you off! Because I can guarantee that if you mentally prepare yourself, push through the burn, and manage to catch it on a day with great views—wow. You are in for a real treat. Reaching High Man means you have officially accomplished one of the greatest peaks in the UK. The buzz when you make it is next level. The views are spectacular, beautiful, and amazing. Honestly, I could think of a hundred great words to say, but you truly have to experience it for yourself.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your gear, absorb these local steps, and enjoy the mission to the top.
At a Glance: The Jenkin Hill Route
- Starting Point: Gale Road Car Park (Top of Latrigg), Keswick (Postcode: CA12 4PH).
- Distance: Approximately 6.2 miles (10 km) round trip.
- Ascent: Around 700 meters of vertical climbing.
- Time Required: 3.5 to 5.5 hours.
- Terrain: Smooth gravel paths and pitched stone steps, turning to loose, exposed slate on the high summit ridge.
Where to park:
The Skiddaw walking route – Step-by-Step Route Guide: Take it in Steps
The absolute best way to approach conquering Skiddaw is to be prepared—especially mentally prepared. Yeah, you know it’s going to be heavy, but the secret is to take it in steps. Trust me, it works!
What I always do is set myself a visible point in the distance. Focus purely on getting to that exact point, and once you hit it, stop, catch your breath, and take in the surroundings. This strategy breaks the mountain down into small milestones, and it’s exactly where you will capture some of your best snaps.
After you’ve had a quick rest, smash the next bit off. Then repeat, repeat, repeat.
Here is how the journey unfolds from the car park to the summit:
Stage 1: The Exciting Start
Your mission begins at the high car park at the end of Gale Road, aka the back of Latrigg. Stepping out of your car, the feeling is instantly exciting because the elevated views are already surrounding you before you’ve even taken a step.
Head through the main gate and set off along the obvious, broad path following the sturdy fence line. You will pass over a gentle, small hill which gives your legs a nice, easy warm-up.
Take a second to look back at the views opening up over Derwent Water, because from this point on, the path goes strictly one way: up.
Stage 2: The Infamous Jenkin Hill Zig-Zags
Once you pass through the second gate, you face the main climb of this Skiddaw walking route up Jenkin Hill.
As you smash through the zig-zags on the path, your brain will trick you. You will look up, see a clear horizon line, and think you can see the top. NO, NO—you still have a while yet! These are false summits. Keep setting those markers in your head, drop your pace down, and take it step by step.
Before you know it, you’ll crest the top of this brutal incline and reach a much flatter, wide-open section where the path eases right off. This is the ultimate spot to fully catch your breath back, have a snack, and remember exactly how incredible you are going to feel when you reach the actual top.
Stage 3: The Ridge Walk to the True Summit
Now that you’ve caught your breath and refuelled, I have some good news: this next bit to the summit is actually easier than the steep hill you just walked up. The path splits to bypass Skiddaw Little Man, levelling out into a gentle climb. Just keep your momentum going until you hit the main, massive ridge. Suddenly, the terrain transforms into a vast, barren, lunar-like slate plateau.
Walk along the wide, slate-paved ridge straight to High Man, the true summit. Here you will find the official stone wind shelter and trig pillar. Stand there, let the achievement sink in, and take in the breathtaking, vast views stretching over Derwent Water, Bassenthwaite Lake, and the endless layers of Cumbrian fells. It is truly worth every single step.
Essential Local Advice & Gear Tips
Check Weather: Before setting off on this Skiddaw walking route, always check the mountain forecast
If you want to enjoy the mission rather than suffer through it, make sure you follow these vital local rules:
Take Plenty of Water:
You get hot and thirsty walking up a peak this steep.
Budget Tip:
Do not wait until you arrive to buy your drinks at the local tourist shops, as it can get expensive. Buy your water online in bulk before your trip and bring it with you to save your hard-earned cash!
Layers are Crucial: This is the most important tip. Do not just go up the mountain in a plain T-shirt because the weather can change so fast. I have personally seen all four seasons—including sudden thunder and lightning out of nowhere—all in a single day walking up Skiddaw. Make sure you pack a few lightweight layers and a solid, high-quality waterproof jacket in your pack just in case.
Find the perfect packable waterproof jackets on Amazon using the button below
Charge Your Phone & Pack a Power Bank: Between navigating, checking maps, and taking photos of those spectacular views, your phone battery will drain fast. Keep a portable power bank in your pocket.
Check out these Durable Power Banks On amazon.
Never Wear Brand-New Boots: This is a classic first-timer mistake. Over the years, I’ve seen a lot of people buy brand-new hiking boots and immediately attempt to hike up these high fells. By the time they reach Jenkin Hill, their feet are in absolute agony because the material isn’t broken in. It is best to get your boots a month or two before your trip and walk around your local area to wear them in so they are perfectly comfortable.
A great shop is the Keswick Boot Companyin Keswick, or you can buy online.
Check out walking boots on Amazon using the button below.
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Watch the Descent (Mind Your Knees!): One last important thing to mention is that on the way back down, gravity really starts to get to your knees. Take your time, use a steady pace, and don’t rush the descent. The wind can be wild on that open ridge, so just be careful up there and enjoy the beauty of this magnificent giant.
Find Accommodation
Looking for the perfect base for your next Lake District adventure? From traditional coaching inns and cosy village B&Bs to lakeside hotels with dramatic fell views, find the best places to stay in Keswick and the surrounding valleys. Search real-time availability, compare top-rated stays, and book your getaway
Not sure where to visit? View our blogs for ideas and walks.
Enjoy conquering Skiddaw.
