Great Gable
OS grid ref. NY211104
England's seventh highest mountain, standing at 2,949 feet (899m) Great Gable, once known as Great Gavel, is one of Lakeland's most popular fells. Its distinctive pyramidal shaped peak, adopted as an emblem of the Lake District, appears formidable, however the ascent is fairly straightforward.
Great Gable
Great Gable, which impressed the poet Wordsworth as 'the loftiest, a distinct and huge form', occupies a strategic geographical position in the Lake District, standing at the apex of two ridge systems; the Pillar group, laying between Wasdale and Ennerdale, and the High Stile group, between Ennerdale and Wasdale. At Great Gable's boulder strewn summit stands a plaque to all those who lost their lives during World War I, an annual service is held there on Remembrance Sunday. The summit offers some of the best views from any peak in the area.
Routes to the summit of Great Gable
There are many different routes to the summit starting from Wasdale, Ennerdale, Langdale and Borrowdale.
The true ascent is from Wasdale, there is a choice of either ascending from Styhead Pass to the tarn up the steep Breast Route to the summit or going first to Beck Head and along the path up to the summit.
Stay safe, by following a few simple rules when fell walking:-
- Obtain a reliable local weather forecast before you set off and plan a route suitable for forecast conditions.
- Check your equipment before leaving, take waterproofs, spare warm clothing, hat and gloves. food and drink, a map, a compass and a survival bag.
- Learn basic mountain skills, particularly navigation.
- If weather conditions turn bad, turn back.
- Don't rely on mobile phones.
Mountains of the Lake District