~Helvellyn~

A featured fell is my way of studying each fell in turn and recording thoughts and observations.

Beautifully named and a targeted summit for anyone with a decent pair of boots.

The Helvellyn Range from Fairfield

Wainwright offers 14 routes of ascent; seven each from the East & West. Direct ascents, not involving a neighbouring summit first are the best way to say "I climbed Helvellyn", but there are many, many ways of reaching this mountain top by climbing one or more of the satellites to the north, south and east.

Swirral Edge to Catstycam

Possibly my favourite way to the top is to climb Catstycam from Glenridding (up the north-west ridge) and then follow Swirral Edge to the top of Helvellyn.

Catstycam and Red Tarn

In my opinion, Red Tarn, nestling in the shadow of Helvellyn has the chin and a look of Desperate Dan.

The Trig Point

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On a fine day, it is unlikely that you will be on your own on Helvellyn.

Striding Edge

Striding Edge is a dangerous place. Climbers should know their limits, don good footwear and tread carefully. You may be able to see the safe by-pass route under the most challenging part of the "Edge". What more can I say? I've traversed it many times and (before Molly) took to using this route only before 0900hrs due to the popularity of such. Presently (Dec '17) it's off limits as Molly is not keen on rock scrambling.

Where: Eastern Fells

Height: 3118ft

Suggested Route: The Ascent from Patterdale to Red Tarn and then take your pick from Striding or Swirral Edge, return via Grisedale Tarn and Grisedale Beck.

My Frequency: More than the 19 times I have recorded on my spreadsheet, maybe nearer 25.

Whilst You're There: Ridge walk to Raise in a northerly direction.

Walk Dates: with links to Reports (on this website) where applicable:

22/05/10 08/09/07