4.5
(6367)
71,205
hikers
60
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Wasdale offer access to a dramatic landscape characterized by towering fells, deep glacial valleys, and England's deepest lake, Wastwater. The region features rugged screes, such as the Wasdale Screes, which plunge into the lake, and prominent peaks like Scafell Pike and Great Gable. This varied terrain provides a range of hiking experiences, from valley floor walks to challenging mountain ascents.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
4.7
(66)
237
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(38)
366
hikers
9.28km
04:31
740m
740m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

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4.3
(3)
87
hikers
17.3km
05:56
670m
670m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.0
(7)
101
hikers
12.8km
05:29
730m
730m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.6
(5)
57
hikers
9.10km
05:12
950m
950m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Popular around Wasdale
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Absolutely impossible for this to be Ennerdale Water.. it’s Wast Water
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Plenty of space but no overnights
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Unfortunately it was dry when I came down this route. But lovely views to be had 😎
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The hike up to Scafell Pike is surrounded in BEAUTY don't forget to look up and around, take it all in and take your time. Closer to the top the terrain is rocky and screen and it tires you out. Save your energy before hand 👌💪🦵
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Real sense of acheivment until you finish the walk and realise there was so much more to do!
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get here early during the busy season to insure you get a parking spot free parking
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My first long hike. The views are amazing. Bare in mind if the route says fitness level expert it really is required. I have ignored that and the route took nearly 2 hours longer than it should. Also pulled a muscle on my hip on one of the climbs so the descent and the rest of the route was in pure pain but made it to the end. 11/10 will go again.
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There are over 60 bus-accessible hiking trails available in Wasdale, offering a wide range of experiences from easy strolls to challenging mountain ascents. This allows you to explore the dramatic landscapes of England's highest mountain and deepest lake without needing a car.
Yes, Wasdale offers 17 easy bus-accessible hiking trails. These routes are perfect for those looking for less strenuous options, such as walks along riverbanks, ancient packhorse tracks, or around the woodlands of Nether Wasdale, still providing dramatic scenery. An example is the Nether Wasdale and Wast Water – Wast Water loop from Nether Wasdale, which offers gentle terrain around the lake.
Absolutely. Wasdale is renowned for its challenging terrain, and there are 25 difficult bus-accessible routes. These include ascents to prominent fells. For instance, you can tackle the Great Gable summit – Sty Head Stretcher Box loop from Wasdale Head, or explore the rugged beauty of the Black Sail Pass – Kirk Fell Summit loop from St Olaf.
Yes, many bus-accessible routes in Wasdale are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end your hike at the same bus stop. This is ideal for car-free exploration. For example, the Nether Wasdale and Wast Water – Wast Water loop from Nether Wasdale is a moderate circular hike.
Many trails in Wasdale are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas with livestock or ground-nesting birds. Be mindful of the terrain, as some higher fells can be challenging for pets. Always check local signage and respect the countryside code.
Yes, Wasdale offers several family-friendly options. While some routes are demanding, there are easier valley floor walks and paths around the lake that are suitable for families. These provide stunning views without requiring high-fell climbing. Look for routes marked as 'easy' in the guide.
Many bus-accessible routes provide spectacular views of Wastwater, England's deepest lake. The View of Wast Water – View of Wast Water loop from St Olaf is a moderate route specifically designed to showcase these iconic vistas. You can also experience the dramatic Wasdale Screes plunging into the lake on routes like the Whin Rigg – View of Wast Water loop from St Michael and All Angels.
Yes, for those interested in waterfalls, a short stroll from the valley head will lead you to Ritson's Force. While not directly on a bus route, it's easily accessible from Wasdale Head, a common bus stop, offering a picturesque natural attraction for a less strenuous outing.
Wasdale's bus-accessible trails offer access to a wealth of natural attractions. You can explore the shores of Wastwater, marvel at the imposing Wasdale Screes, or even ascend to summits like Scafell Pike summit (England's highest mountain) or Haystacks Summit, known for its rocky features and tarns. The region is also home to numerous tarns like Greendale Tarn.
The Wasdale area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 6,200 ratings. Reviewers often praise the dramatic and diverse natural features, the sense of remoteness, and the opportunity to experience England's highest mountain and deepest lake. The convenience of accessing these stunning landscapes via public transport is also a frequently highlighted benefit.
For current bus schedules, especially for services like the Wasdale Explorer Shuttlebus, it is best to check the official Lake District National Park website or local transport provider websites. Timetables can vary by season, so always confirm before your trip to ensure seamless bus-accessible hiking.
Yes, there are establishments like the Wasdale Head Inn and the Strands Inn in Nether Wasdale that are often accessible from bus stops. These provide excellent opportunities to refuel and relax after your hike, offering local fare and refreshments in a traditional Lake District setting.


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