Terrain Overview
Walk Overview
The dramatic view of the Wast Water screes from the approach path to Wasdale Head
gives the impression that the walking on the tops of Whin Rigg and Illgill Head would
be very difficult. In fact the route from the Eskdale Green road from Santon Bridge
via Irton Park is very gentle and a fine route up towards some breathtaking views
On the right hand side of the road between Santon Bridge and Irton Park there is
a large area set aside for free car parking. This is the start point for this walk
A few yards further on is a rough track that leads through the Irton Park
plantation and skirts the base of Irton Pike
The path cuts through a wooded area
A short distance along, the path splits. Take the right hand fork and follow the wall
alongside the boundary of Mitterdale Forest
Due to a recent outbreak of Ash Dieback a large number of trees have had
to be felled
Eventually a gate is reached that gives access to the open fell side and the first
objective on the route ... Irton Fell
The ground turns boggy, so it`s best to keep by the wall where a stone
track helps with crossing the ground
A gate through an intake wall leads to the summit of Irton Pike
On the higher ground of Irton Pike and a clear view of the path leading to Whin Rigg
Approaching the summit of Whin Rigg
The summit shelter cairn provides some respite from the bitterly cold wind
Click here for a 360 degree view
Looking North towards Wasdale Head
Setting off for Illgill Head and the track is very easy to follow
Skirting the edge of one of the several deep cut Gills that are visible
when looking at the front elevation of the screes from the other
side of Wast Water
Looking back along the edge towards Whin Rigg
On the summit of Illgill Head. Click here for a 360 degree view
Looking out to the Irish Sea
From left to right ... Yewbarrow, Kirk Fell and Great Gable
Bright sunshine but freezing cold
Looking down to Wast Water
Looking out over the Irish Sea
