Join us for a rewarding journey into the heart of the Helvellyn range as we tackle two of the Lake District’s finest high fells: Dollywaggon Pike (858m) and Nethermost Pike (891m). This is a steep and challenging mountain walk, but one that rewards every step with dramatic ridges, legendary tarns and magnificent views across the Eastern Fells.
Starting from Dunmail Raise, the ancient mountain pass linking Grasmere and Thirlmere, we ascend alongside Raise Beck towards the remote beauty of Grisedale Tarn. Nestled beneath the towering slopes of Dollywaggon Pike, the tarn occupies a classic glacial corrie formed during the last Ice Age and is considered one of the most beautiful mountain tarns in Lakeland.
Grisedale Tarn is steeped in one of the Lake District’s most enduring legends. According to local folklore, following his defeat in battle, King Dunmail, the last ruler of the ancient Kingdom of Cumbria, ordered his crown to be thrown into the dark waters of the tarn to prevent it falling into enemy hands. It is said that the crown remains hidden beneath the waters to this day, guarded until a future time when Cumbria once again has need of its king. The nearby cairn at Dunmail Raise is traditionally associated with the king’s final resting place.
Beyond the tarn, the route steepens considerably as we zig-zag our way onto the summit of Dollywaggon Pike, before continuing along the broad high ridge to Nethermost Pike, one of the highest summits in the Eastern Fells. The ridge provides an exhilarating mountain experience with extensive views in every direction.
The rocks beneath our feet were formed during periods of intense volcanic activity over 450 million years ago. Later, vast glaciers sculpted the dramatic corries, ridges and valleys that define today’s landscape. The deep basin occupied by Grisedale Tarn and the steep flanks of the surrounding fells provide outstanding examples of glacial erosion.
From the summits we can enjoy views across:
Meeting Time: 09:30
Meeting Point: Dunmail Raise Lay-by, A591, near Grasmere, LA22 9RS
Parking is available at a la-by on Dunmail Raise adjacent to the A591.
Combining Lakeland legend, glacial scenery, challenging mountain terrain and two superb Wainwright summits, this is an outstanding high-level walk for those looking to explore the quieter side of the Helvellyn massif whilst experiencing some of the finest mountain views in the National Park.
