The Most Difficult Wainwright Hike, Ranked

Choose the hike you think is the most difficult!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on May 31, 2024 06:35
For many avid hikers, tackling the Wainwright hikes presents a thrilling yet challenging adventure. The complexity and effort involved in these walks vary greatly, making it crucial to know which routes are the most challenging. Having a trusted ranking can help hikers prepare adequately, ensuring they have the right gear and physical readiness for the tougher trails. This site offers a dynamic list where your votes determine the ranking of the most difficult Wainwright hikes. By participating, you contribute to a resource that helps the hiking community gauge which hikes push the limits of endurance and skill. Your input is invaluable, whether you are a seasoned hiker sharing from experience or a newcomer eager to learn from the insights of others.

What Is the Most Difficult Wainwright Hike?

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    Haystacks via Scarth Gap Pass

    A favorite of Wainwright himself, this hike offers varied terrain and requires good navigation skills.
    • Height: 597m
    • Area: Western Fells
  2. 2
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    votes

    Jack's Rake, Pavey Ark

    A grade 1 scramble that requires a head for heights, offering a direct ascent to the Langdale Pikes.
    • Height: 700m
    • Area: Central Fells
  3. 3
    1
    votes

    Helvellyn via Striding Edge

    A challenging route offering breathtaking views, known for its narrow ridges and steep drops.
    • Height: 950m
    • Area: Eastern Fells
  4. 4
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    votes

    Blencathra via Sharp Edge

    A narrow arĂȘte providing a thrilling scramble, known for its exposure and difficulty.
    • Height: 868m
    • Area: Northern Fells
  5. 5
    1
    votes

    Skiddaw via Ullock Pike

    A long and arduous route with a steep ascent, offering panoramic views.
    • Height: 931m
    • Area: Northern Fells
  6. 6
    1
    votes

    Fairfield Horseshoe

    A high-level ridge walk, known for its length and the stamina required to complete it.
    • Height: 873m
    • Area: Eastern Fells
  7. 7
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    High Stile Ridge

    A ridge walk offering stunning lake views, known for its steep ascent and descent.
    • Height: 807m
    • Area: Western Fells
  8. 8
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    votes

    Scafell Pike via the Corridor Route

    England's highest peak, this route is rugged and involves some scrambling.
    • Height: 978m
    • Area: Southern Fells
  9. 9
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    votes

    Pillar Rock

    The only Wainwright that necessitates the use of a rope for most walkers, offering a unique challenge.
    • Height: 892m
    • Area: Western Fells
  10. 10
    0
    votes

    Great Gable via Westmorland Crags

    A steep and rocky ascent, offering stunning views from the summit.
    • Height: 899m
    • Area: Western Fells

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About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most difficult Wainwright hike. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or hike is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 2140 views
  • 0 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each hike once every 24 hours. The rank of each hike is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

Additional Information

More about the Most Difficult Wainwright Hike

Haystacks via Scarth Gap Pass
Rank #1 for the most difficult Wainwright hike: Haystacks via Scarth Gap Pass (Source)
The Wainwright hikes are a series of routes through the Lake District in England. Named after Alfred Wainwright, these hikes offer stunning views and challenging trails. Among these, some hikes stand out due to their difficulty.

These difficult hikes test even the most experienced walkers. They involve steep ascents and rough terrain. Hikers must navigate rocky paths and often face unpredictable weather. The trails can be narrow and exposed, requiring careful footing. Physical fitness is essential, as the climbs can be long and tiring.

Preparation is key. Hikers should bring proper gear, including sturdy boots and waterproof clothing. A map and compass are crucial, as the trails can be hard to follow. Food and water are also important, as these hikes can take several hours to complete.

One of the main challenges is the elevation gain. Some hikes involve climbing over 3,000 feet. This can be exhausting, especially when combined with the rough terrain. Hikers need to pace themselves and take breaks when needed.

Another challenge is the weather. The Lake District is known for its rain and fog. Conditions can change quickly, making navigation difficult. Hikers should check the weather forecast before setting out and be prepared for sudden changes.

Despite the challenges, these hikes offer incredible rewards. The views from the top are breathtaking. On a clear day, hikers can see for miles. The sense of achievement is also immense. Completing a difficult Wainwright hike is a true test of endurance and skill.

Safety should always be a priority. Hikers should never take on these trails alone. It is important to let someone know your plans and expected return time. Carrying a mobile phone is also wise, though signal can be unreliable in some areas.

In summary, the most difficult Wainwright hikes are not for the faint-hearted. They require preparation, fitness, and a respect for the natural elements. However, for those who take on the challenge, the rewards are well worth the effort.

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