Scramble Route - Loft Crag, Langdale

Loft Crag Buttress, Langdale - Lakes

Grade: 2

A different way up the Langdales from the usual tourist hordes, especially in summer. Middle grade scrambling in classic surroundings with fine views over Langdale.

Equipment: Ropes and protection strongly advised.

Online Map link

Views: 2 Technicality: 3 Exposure: 3

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GIBBER FACTOR* 2 *out of five.

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Overview Langdale may be one of the most popular spots in the Lakes thanks to a combination of accessibility, facilities and its sheer loveliness, but it's still possible to avoid the crowds with this classic middle-grade scramble on Loft Crag Buttress. Great views looking back over Langdale and tea or a pint at the end of the day at the ODG :-)

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Approach Take the path from the Old Dungeon Ghyll that heads diagonally across the hillside, aiming for Gimmer Crag. Just before the gap in the ridge move left across the steepening hillside to reach Gimmer Crag. Beyond the right wall of the crag across a grassy hollow lies Loft Crag Buttress.

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Route An obvious rock finger marks the start of a shattered looking buttress, but the rock is extremely good and grippy. Start just right of the rock finger and climb straight up to the ledge above. Easy scrambling up to the left leads to a flat grassy ledge below a zig-zag series of ledges. The ledges start off moving left on a steep wall, before moving back right to a large slab.

Take the slab to an obvious terrace and move right to ascend to a large ledge. Easy slab scrambling follows, leading to a scree chute. Cross the scree to a small rib which can be followed to the base of Loft Crag's summit. A few easy moves up to the summit block bring you to the top, and superb views over Langdale and Windermere.

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Caution Scrambling is potentially dangerous and, particularly at the higher grades, requires technical skills and equipment to minimise the risk. We suggest that you take professional instruction or climb with an experienced partner.