The West Wall Traverse is a legendary Grade 1 scramble located on Scafell in the Lake District, England, offering a dramatic alternative to the dangerous Broad Stand pass. It serves as a spectacular ledge system that bridges Lord’s Rake and the upper reaches of Deep Ghyll.

I’d been fancying having a bash at this route for about 10 years. With the hottest day of the year so far forecast I tentatively set off on my mini quest!

Details about the climb and a hijacked route-map below to whet your appetite should anyone reading this want to have a go having read this short article. The only decent route-map image I could find was of it in winter but the route is no different. Maybe next time I’ll try it in those more testing conditions shown.

I started in the National Trust Wasdale Carpark at the lake head. Took the traditional route up towards Scafell Pike up Brown Tongue towards Mickeldore. Swung a right before Hollow Stones up to Lord’s Rake. Took the rake up the first section past where the old chockstone used to be wedged, and then took a left turn up a narrow path to the West Wall Traverse. Route back down was via Green How all the way to the carpark.

Difficulty: Serious and committing; involves loose rock, plunging drops, and high exposure.

The Entrance: Climbers begin by ascending the steep, loose scree of Lord’s Rake. Just before the top of the first col (near a prominent fallen boulder), you turn left onto the traverse shelf.

The Traverse: The path acts as a rising terrace cutting across the sheer west face of Scafell Crag. It provides breathtaking exposure but functions mostly as a steep footpath.

The Exit: The traverse feeds directly into the upper section of Deep Ghyll. From there, a final scree scramble leads directly to the mountain plateau near the summit.

Rockfall Hazard: Lord’s Rake is highly unstable and considered an accident blackspot by the Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team. Helmets are strongly recommended. Loose scree and rockfall hazards are common in the rake and gill. (I had no helmet!)

Experience: Requires a cool head, confident navigation, and scrambling experience.