Helvellyn via Striding Edge hiking guide
A guide to walking Helvellyn in the Lake District National Park
Helvellyn is one of the most iconic mountains in the Lake District and is known for its breathtaking views and challenging ascent. For those looking for a more thrilling and adventurous route to the summit, climbing up via Striding Edge and down via Swirral Edge is a popular option. This is one of my favourite walks (and one of my first when I first visited the lakes aged 9). My guide covers the route and some tips on safety, difficulty, planning, and equipment.
Helvellyn’s Striding Edge
Helvellyn via Striding Edge Walking Route in the Lake District
Helvellyn is one of my favourite Lake District walks with great views, challenging sections and of course ticking of a Wainwright. The route begins in the picturesque village of Glenridding (CA11 0PA) and follows a well-defined path up towards Red Tarn. The path is steep in places but is manageable, twisting it’s way up the mountain. After two or so hours of walking, the path splits into two, with one route leading up to Striding Edge and the other up towards Swirral Edge. I’d recommend you head left up Striding Edge as the in my opinion, it’s an easier accent vs Swirral. Once you’ve completed the famous ridge line, you’ve made it to the top of Helvellyn, Englands second highest mountain. From here, make your way across the top and then down Swirral Edge. In poor weather, the route may not be clear, so please make sure you're approaching with caution. The route down is fairly rocky with steep sections in parts
Map of Helvellyn hiking route
Climbing up via Striding Edge involves scrambling along a narrow ridge with steep drops on either side, while Swirral Edge is as equally as challenging but best saved for the way back down, in my opinion.
On a clear day, the views from the top are incredible and if very clear, you can see out towards Scotland. There is limited shelter on the top, so make sure to wrap up warm on the cooler days and bring some lunch for the long walk.
Location: Helvellyn is located in the Lake District, in Cumbria, England. The nearest town is Glenridding, which is accessible by car or public transport from Ambleside and Windermere.
Total Distance: 12.50km (if doing the extended Catyse Cam route)
Location: The route starts and ends in the village of Glenridding
Where to stay: Ambleside, Glenridding and Windermere are all close to the start and finish, providing plenty of places to camp or stay
Extending the route to include Catyse Cam
For those looking to add an additional summit to their Helvellyn climb, Catstye Cam is a great option. Catstye Cam is a Wainwright and is located on the walk down from Swirral Edge. It offers stunning views of Helvellyn and Red Tarn below.
Adding Catstye Cam to the route increases the total distance of the walk to around 12.5km, and the additional climb makes it a more demanding route. Walkers should ensure that they have adequate supplies and equipment and that they are prepared for the additional challenge.
Overall, adding Catstye Cam to the Helvellyn via Striding Edge and Swirral Edge route is a fantastic option for those looking for an even more challenging and rewarding climb.
Things to plan for walking Helvellyn in the Lake District
As with any fell walk, it's important to plan ahead and be prepared for the conditions. Helvellyn is the second highest fell in England and is a challenging route that requires a good level of fitness and experience. Check the weather forecast before setting off, and be prepared for changes in weather conditions.
It's also essential to bring plenty of food and water, as well as appropriate clothing and footwear. Sturdy walking boots with good ankle support are a must, and it's recommended to bring a waterproof jacket and trousers, warm layers, and a hat and gloves. Sunscreen, a map and a compass are also essential items to bring.
Is Helvellyn ok for beginners?
If you are a complete beginner to hiking, I’d recommend you first try a couple of lower level walks such as the ones I’ve listed here.
Once you’re feeling ready, I’d start with the easier accent up Helvellyn, starting from the Swirls Carpark. The climb from Swirls is less demanding and easier in poor weather. You’ll get to the top in around 2 hours and can make the walk circular ending back up a the carpark.
The climb up Helvellyn via Striding Edge and Swirral Edge is a challenging and demanding route, with steep climbs and exposed ridges. The scrambling section of Striding Edge is particularly challenging, and those with limited experience should consider an alternative route. The descent down Swirral Edge is less challenging but can still be slippery and steep in places. I have done this route several times in fog and mist and would not recommend it. Key to remember that it may be sunny at car park level, but cloudy up in the fells.
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Is Helvellyn harder than Scafell Pike?
Scafell Pike is often considered a harder climb than Helvellyn as it is steeper in sections, higher and at times, busier. However, if you climb Helvellyn from either Striding or Swirral Edge, then both routes are much harder than Scafell, in my opinion.
How long does it take to hike up Helvellyn?
For my route suggested above, it’ll take around a full day of walking (6-7 hours) if you take your time. The easier route from Swirls Car Park can be completed in around 5 hours.
Can you do Helvellyn with a dog?
Yes, for most routes, it is accessible with a dog, however if attempting either of the ridges, I’d ensure you are confident with your dogs ability to manage steep rocky sections.
Safety when climbing Helvellyn
Climbing up via Striding Edge is a challenging route and is not recommended for inexperienced walkers or those with a fear of heights. The exposed ridge can be dangerous in high winds, rain or snow, and it is important to check the weather forecast before setting off. Appropriate footwear with good grip and a walking pole can be helpful on this route. It is also essential to carry a map, compass, and know how to use them.
Kit list for when out walking in the Lake District
As mentioned, it's essential to bring appropriate clothing and footwear for your hike. Here's a list of essential items to bring:
Sturdy walking boots and socks with good ankle support
You can get a decent pair of boots from Cotswold Outdoors, Mountain Warehouse or Blacks. You don’t need to spend a load of money, but anything with ankle support should do the job. I have the Scarpa Rush TRK Gore-Tex boots and they are fantastic!
Hiking socks: I personally use Smartwool merino wool socks which are incredibly comfy, help keep my feet dry
Daypack: when out walking in the Lakes, I always take my Osprey Talon 44L bag. I recommend the Osprey daypacks such as the Talon range for men and Tempest range for woman.
Waterproof jacket and trousers - even in the summer, taking a waterproof jacket that offers protection from the wind is key
You don’t need to spend a lot of money, but if you are going to be hiking often then investing in a good waterproof may be a good idea
Warm layers
Fleece - My go-to warm layer - Patagonia R1 Fleece
Warm gloves or mittens: I personally use the Rab Mens Pivot GTX Gloves and these worked well on my recent winter hiking trips.
Lightweight Gloves: For lower hills I recommend lightweight, fleece or quick drying fabric gloves. I personally use the Sealskinz unisex waterproof gloves if it is raining and the Montane Prism gloves if it is dry but windy (they are lighter and a little more comfy.
Neck bandana or scarf: For the chilly days on the mountain, I recommend bringing a neck gaiter or bandana. I recommend the Buff unisex bandana.
Map and compass (and the ability to use them)
Trekking poles: Trekking poles can reduce the impact on your joints by up to 20%. I recommend adjustable Black Diamond or Leki trekking poles
Food and water
Kendal Mint Cake is my favourite snack for any walk and is a famous snack still made in the Lake District
Water bladder / bottles: When out in the fells, I aim to drink at least 1L of water. I recommend the Osprey 2 litre water badder which can be used in most backpacks.
Sunscreen and Bug Spray
First aid kit - a small mix of plasters, Savalon (for bites and stings) and antiseptic wipes will do
Head torch: You will need a head torch with a decent power for any trips to the loo and more importantly the summit hike. I personally use a Petzl ACTIK® 600 CORE which is affordable and has a decent battery life. You’ll also need spare batteries as the cold will drain them quicker.
Mobile phone (with a full battery) + portable charger.
I recommend any Anker Power Bank as they are reliable and well made. I use the USB-C 10,000 maH with 20W model. It charges my phone and watch when wild camping and is a great lightweight option
Final thoughts
Climbing up Helvellyn via Striding Edge and down Swirral Edge is a challenging and exhilarating route that rewards walkers with stunning views and a sense of achievement. However, it is essential to be well-prepared, informed, and experienced before attempting this route. Safety should always be the top priority, and walkers should only attempt this route in good weather conditions and with the appropriate equipment and knowledge.