Discover scenic scrambling in the Lake District’s natural playground, the Langdale Pikes, with this guide to Jack’s Rake: an exhilarating route best suited to experienced hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
How Difficult Is Jack’s Rake?
Jack’s Rake is a Grade 1 scrambling route, featuring narrow chimneys that sit close to the rock face, along with easier but more exposed alternative options. How challenging it feels will depend on your level of scrambling experience, fitness, strength and comfort with heights.
Jack’s Rake is a rewarding but demanding scramble that requires a good level of fitness. The approach involves a steep uphill walk of around 3 to 4 kilometres, followed by the scramble itself, which tests your strength, balance and stamina. The descent, though easier, still requires care and energy. So it’s best suited to those who are comfortable with sustained physical activity and have some scrambling experience.
Where is Jack’s Rake Scramble? Location in the Langdale Pikes
Jack’s Rake is one of the most popular Grade 1 scrambles in the Lake District. A striking route that traverses the mighty fell of Pavey Ark, offering magnificent views along the way. This scramble should only be attempted by those with experience. If it’s your first time, I strongly advise to go with a qualified mountain guide or instructor. Unless you are very experienced, attempting this route alone is not recommended. The scramble includes tight chimneys and exposed sections with steep drops, requiring confidence and good judgement.
How to Get to Jack’s Rake: Parking, Directions, and Hiking Tips
Start your route by parking at the Stickle Ghyll National Trust car park in Langdale. From there, it’s a steep ascent along a stone-paved path that follows Stickle Ghyll, a picturesque stream dotted with waterfalls and clear pools that tempt you to dip your toes in on a warm day. Cross the wooden footbridge and continue up the path to the right of the river. This section demands a reasonable level of fitness and sturdy footwear. A good pair of hiking boots is essential, and walking poles may also come in handy for the climb.
Once you reach the top of the path, you’ll arrive at Stickle Tarn. This is a large, still body of water enclosed by a stone wall, offering the perfect spot to pause and take in the magnificent landscape. Directly ahead you’ll see the imposing face of Pavey Ark, a dark grey mountain formed from ancient volcanic rock, millions of years old. Cutting diagonally across its rugged face, as if carved out, is the line of Jack’s Rake, the scrambling route.
To descend, take the path to the left of Pavey Ark, which is an easier route with no scrambling involved. Make your way back down alongside Stickle Ghyll, retracing your steps. Round off your day with a well earned drink at the famous Old Dungeon Ghyll pub, known for its hearty pies and welcoming atmosphere. On warm, clear evenings, you might even catch some live folk music, all set against the breath taking backdrop of Great Langdale.
Jack’s Rake is a fantastic day out, whether you’re an experienced scrambler looking for a rewarding Grade 1 route with spectacular views, or a firs timer tackling it alongside a qualified scrambling instructor.
Recommended Equipment for Scrambling Jack’s Rake
For Safety and Confidence
To scramble Jack’s Rake safely and with confidence, make sure you bring the following:
- Sturdy hiking boots – with good grip for rocky, uneven terrain
- Appropriate clothing – breathable, non-restrictive layers suitable for movement
- Waterproofs – jacket and trousers in case of sudden weather changes (a regular occurrence in the Lakes!)
- Helmet – for protection from loose rock or falls
- Walking poles – useful for the approach and descent
- Fully charged phone – plus a power bank for backup
- Navigation tools – such as the OS Maps app or AllTrails
- First aid kit – basic supplies in case of minor injuries
- Plenty of water – and high-energy snacks for the climb
Optional but recommended: gloves with grip (especially helpful on damp rock) and a whistle for emergencies.
Parking at Stickle Ghyll Car Park (National Trust)
- What3Words: ///elevates.closes.develops
- Grid Reference: NY294063
- 6-Figure Grid Reference: NY 29418 06389
- Nearest Postcode: LA22 9JX
Jack’s Rake: Location and Coordinates
- What3Words: warms.brilliant.indoors
- Grid Reference: NY 28501 07801
- 6-Figure Grid Reference: NY285078
- Nearest Postcode: LA22 9JY
Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel and Pub: Location and Coordinates
- Address: The Old Dungeon Ghyll, Great Langdale, Ambleside, Cumbria, LA22 9JY
- What3Words: rats.spurted.banks
- Grid Reference: NY 28588 06120
- 6-Figure Grid Reference: NY285061
Loved this? You may also like: Helvellyn Hike Guide: Conquer Striding Edge and Swirral Edge
