UKC

Making a circular route on passes in the main massif of the Southern Fells is not straightforward: sure, there's a fine crossing between Langdale and Wasdale via Rossett Gill, False Esk Hause and Styhead but how to get back? A crossing of Mickledore and Three Tarns would make a very sporting return leg. So it's better to shift our focus to the Coniston grouping and make a simple loop via the easy slopes of the Walna Scar byway, coupled with the not-so-easy Levers Hause. This makes a fine double-crossing that could be attempted from either end, but a Duddon start would require a little more ascent and descent. Don't be fooled into thinking this an easy option: you've got a vertical kilometre to do, and the section from Seathwaite Tarn dam to Levers Hause is as wild and desolate as you'll find in the Lakes.

9 miles, 14.50 km, 995m ascent, 2:30 – 5:30 hours. Coniston

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