The contrasting profiles of Scar Crags along the high ridge circuit

Scar Crags

Height672m (2,205ft)

Prominence55m (180ft)

RegionNorth Western Fells

Climbed2 Times

Positioned along the spectacular elevated ridge line spanning between Crag Hill and Causey Pike, Scar Crags presents a fascinating study in mountain contrast. The fell is defined by its striking topography: its northern face drops away in a series of dark, vertical slate precipices that tumble dramatically into the valley, juxtaposed perfectly against the smooth, gentle grass slopes that fall away on the opposite side of the pass. Historically, the mountain also hides a quiet industrial secret, having served as the site of the Lake District’s solitary cobalt mining venture in 1846, though the operation proved a costly failure and abandoned structural works shortly after opening.

"Scar Crags is the big brother of Causey Pike, topping the latter by 170 feet, but it is the lesser height that captures the fancy, that provides the challenge, that steals the picture and is the better known by far." — Wainwright 1957, Book Two

The summit is crowned by a neat, simple stone cairn positioned right along the airy high crest. Pausing at this vantage point provides an incredibly direct, heady view straight down into the deep trough of Rigg Beck, accompanied by an exceptional perspective over the surrounding ranks of the Coledale and Newlands giants.

The peaceful high point cairn marking the true summit crest of Scar Crags

Trip Reports

The Coledale Round16/04/2016

The Coledale Round11/08/2013

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