Cumbrian Traverse

The Cumbrian Traverse is a high-mountain crossing of the Lake District taking in some of its finest summit terrain. Starting from the southern fells and finishing in Keswick, it links the Coniston range, the Scafell massif and the Gable group in a logical south-to-north line that gives a thorough overview of the national park's highest ground.

Unlike the circular mountain rounds, the traverse is a point-to-point challenge — you need transport at both ends. The route is not waymarked and follows fell runner's lines rather than established paths for many sections.

Most runners take eight to fourteen hours depending on fitness and conditions. The crux is the Scafell section, where the crossing between Scafell Pike and Scafell via Mickledore is a technical scramble requiring care.

From Broughton Mills in the Duddon Valley: ascend the Coniston fells via the Old Man of Coniston (803 m) and the Coniston ridge. Cross to the Langdale fells via Wrynose Pass or high routes over Crinkle Crags and Bowfell.

From Langdale: over Esk Pike and the Scafell group — Scafell Pike (978 m) and Scafell (964 m) via Mickledore. Descend to Wasdale Head or follow the ridge north.

North section: Great Gable (899 m), Green Gable, Brandreth, Grey Knotts. Descend via Honister Pass or continue north over the Dale Head group to Borrowdale and Keswick.

A car shuttle between Broughton Mills and Keswick is the standard approach. Keswick is the obvious base for a support crew. The route has vehicle access at Wrynose Pass (if taking the low option), Wasdale Head and Honister Pass.

Best time: May to September. Winter conditions on the Scafells are serious and require mountaineering skills.