Climbers heading for the highest point in England, Scafell Pike at 3,209 feet above sea level, should prepare not only for a long hike but also for the Lake Country’s notoriously fickle weather.

Rising above Cumbria in Lake District National Park in northern England, Scafell Pike stands at the edge of three micro-climates. Weather can change drastically in a very short amount of time. High winds with strong windchills and even snow may strike at any time of year.  The volatile weather may include dense fog on the mountain’s summit area, which is a large boulder field with few landmarks aside from the summit cairn. Hikers should know how to use a map and compass to navigate the area should fog cover the summit.

Those who are prepared have a choice of multiple routes from Wasdale Head, Eskdale, Langdale, and Borrowdale, each with varying difficulty. Novices and families may wish to use the Corridor Route from Styhead Tarn near Borrowdale, and experienced climbers may want to try Ill Crag. Always be prepared for a long day of fell-walking (whatever the weather) to the highest mountain in England.