Climbing Scafell Pike at 78 years young

Q. Should I, or, should I not [climb Scafell Pike at 78 years young]??? I did Ben Nevis when I was 63, Snowdon at 70. Although the lowest of the three, is scarfell [Scafell Pike] the easier? I am reasonably fit and hike regularly. What I also wish to know - is the walk to and from the the start fairly short? I am planning to come over in early September. I am now 78 yrs young. I would also like to have a companion on the walk!!

Ross Saunders, Burlington, Ontario, Canada

A. Is Scafell Pike the correct choice, i.e. would Helvellyn be a better choice and the route from Thirlmere the easiest way to go, you could always try from Patterdale at a later date it you found it too easy, I think the views from the top of Helvellyn would be a lot more rewarding after what would be quite an effort at 78 Regards David (1930 lad)

David Saunders, Lightwater

A. Go for it lad! I'm 70 years young and I did it from Seathwaite in March followed by Striding Edge and Helvellyn the next day. Just go at your own pace and enjoy the day.

Peter Partington, Guisborough

A. There is no reason why an active youngster of 78 should not climb Scafell Pike. Good idea to walk with someone though and also make sure your navigation skills are up to scratch. There are several possible routes on the mountain. The shortest and quickest is via Brown Tongue and starts in the National Trust car park just north of the head of Watwater [Wast Water] - see walk Walk route map c111 Scafell Pike from Wasdale Head, Wast Water.

Pete Royall, Caldbeck

A. Go for it, but remember a nice steady pace so that your breathing is not too fast. At 74 I led a group of 18 on the Ben Nevis Horseshoe, now that really takes your breath away!!!

Michael Graves, Stretford, Manchester

A. Hi, I'd say go for it! As long as you think it's within your capabilities. Last year my group managed to get an 80 year old to the top and back without any issues and we are off to Snowdon this year.

Shaun Bonner

A. It all depends on the route you take and the weather. The direct route from Wast Water is the shortest - but the corridor route from Sty Head is probably the most travelled. For a complete list of all the walks up Scafell Pike see Scafell Pike. There are also loads of photos so you can get an idea of what you are letting yourself in for.

To find someone to go with - put a message on our Find New Walking Freinds Message Board.

Mike (Editor)

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