Nethermost Pike

Nethernmost Pike Facts

Elevation: 891 m (2,923 ft)
Mountain Range: Eastern Fells
OS Grid: NY343142

About Nethermost Pike

At 891 m (2,923 ft) above sea level, Nethermost Pike is the second-highest mountain in the Lake District’s Eastern Fells range, which is a ridge running roughly in a north-south direction, from Ullswater to Lakeland’s Central Valley. Helvellyn is the highest peak along the ridge, lying to the north; while High Crag and Dollywaggon Pike lie to the south. Approached from the west, Nethermost Pike is fairly unimpressive, but the eastern slopes are formed of cliffs tumbling down towards Nethermost Cove and Grisedale.

Its prominence is 22 m (72 ft) and it has been classified as a Wainwright, a Nuttall, a Birkett and a sub-Hewitt.

Nethermost Pike’s eastern slope has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest because of its geological and biological features. These include some of the best examples of arctic-alpine and tall herb vegetation to be found in England.

Climbing Nethermost Pike

Reaching the summit of Nethermost Pike is a goal often overlooked by hikers and climbers, who merely cross it while aiming instead for the more famous Helvellyn to the north or Dollywaggon Pike to the south. It can therefore be a quieter climb if you’re looking to get away from the crowds.

The summit is flat-topped and there are two cairns, although it’s hard to see which of the two is at the highest spot. From the top, there are views across much of the Lake District, except where Helvellyn stands in the way.