The High Adventure: Full Day Mountain Goat High Mountain Passes Tour

Venture into England’s rugged Lake District on an exhilarating full-day tour. You’ll soar over the region’s legendary high mountain passes, revealing breathtaking panoramas of towering peaks, shimmering lakes, and ancient Roman ruins. Explore the picturesque Langdale Valley, navigate the steep Wrynose and Hardknott Passes, and discover the remnants of Hardknott Roman Fort. Take in awe-inspiring views of the fells, Wastwater, and the Coniston range. This tour provides an immersive experience showcasing the Lake District’s raw natural beauty and historical significance. To learn more about this unforgettable adventure, continue reading.

This experience made our list of the 5 Best Full-Day Tours In Windermere.

Key Points

• This full-day tour explores the rugged Langdale Valley, traversing the challenging Wrynose and Hardknott mountain passes for breathtaking views of the Lake District’s peaks and valleys.
• Visitors can discover the ancient Hardknott Roman Fort situated at over 1,000 feet (304 meters) and learn about the lives of Roman soldiers stationed in this remote, inhospitable location.
• The tour showcases the stunning panoramic vistas of the Lake District’s fells, including the shimmering Wastwater lake nestled beneath the towering Scafell Pike and surrounding high peaks.
• Guests have the opportunity to admire the serene Coniston Water and the imposing Coniston Fells, including the iconic Coniston Old Man, the highest peak in the Coniston range.
• The tour uses a small Mercedes Sprinter minivan, with on-board commentary in English, and is not suitable for wheelchair users or children under 5 years old.

Journey Through the Langdale Valley

The tour begins with a journey through the Langdale Valley, a picturesque region known for its popularity among rock climbers and hikers.

This U-shaped glacial valley is flanked by the mighty Langdale Pikes, whose craggy peaks and sheer rock faces have drawn adventurers for centuries.

As the minivan winds through the valley, passengers can’t help but gaze upward at the towering mountains, their rugged beauty complemented by the lush, verdant meadows below.

The guide points out notable landmarks and shares insights into the valley’s rich history and geology, adding to the sense of immersion in this awe-inspiring landscape.

It’s an exhilarating start to a day filled with high-altitude exploration.

Ascending the Wrynose and Hardknott Passes

The High Adventure: Full Day Mountain Goat High Mountain Passes Tour

From the serene Langdale Valley, the tour group then ascends the steep and challenging Wrynose and Hardknott Passes, two of the Lake District’s most renowned and dramatic mountain roads. Winding through a series of tight hairpin turns, the minivan climbs over 1,000 feet (304 meters) in elevation, offering passengers breathtaking panoramic views of the rugged peaks and deep valleys that characterize this awe-inspiring region. The ascent tests the vehicle’s capabilities as it navigates the steep gradients and tight switchbacks, but the skilled driver ensures a safe and thrilling journey for all onboard.

Wrynose Pass	Hardknott Pass
Elevation: 1,290 ft (393 m)	Elevation: 1,289 ft (393 m)
Average Gradient: 1 in 3 (33%)	Average Gradient: 1 in 3 (33%)
Hairpin Turns: 3	Hairpin Turns: 5

Hardknott Roman Fort Exploration

After ascending the challenging Wrynose and Hardknott Passes, the tour group often visits the ruins of Hardknott Roman Fort, situated at an elevation of over 1,000 feet (304 meters) in the heart of the Lake District’s rugged landscape.

As they explore the remnants of this strategic outpost, built around 130 AD, visitors are transported back in time. They can imagine the daily lives of the Roman soldiers stationed here, tasked with securing the surrounding valleys and mountain passes.

The impressive stone foundations and bastions provide a glimpse into the fort’s former grandeur, while the stunning vistas of the surrounding fells and valleys remind visitors of the remote and inhospitable nature of this ancient military stronghold.

Panoramic Views of the Fells

The High Adventure: Full Day Mountain Goat High Mountain Passes Tour

Panoramic Views of the Fells

Having explored the ancient Roman ruins, the tour group now sets their sights on the panoramic vistas that unfold across the towering fells.

From the high mountain passes, they’re treated to sweeping views of the rugged, glacier-carved landscape. The imposing mountains and deep valleys of the Lake District stretch out before them, with the shimmering waters of Wastwater nestled below.

The group pauses to take in the breathtaking scenery, awed by the raw, untamed beauty of the fells. As they continue their descent, they catch glimpses of distant peaks and ridges, leaving them eager to explore more of this magnificent natural wonder.

Wastwater: England’s Deepest Lake

As the tour group descends from the high mountain passes, they arrive at the stunning Wastwater, England’s deepest lake. Nestled amidst the dramatic high screes and mountains, Wastwater’s dark, mirror-like waters offer a serene contrast to the rugged landscape.

The tour group takes in the breathtaking vistas, marveling at:

1. The lake’s remarkable depth of 258 feet (79 meters), making it the deepest in England.
2. The towering Scafell Pike and Lingmell rising steeply from the lake’s western shore.
3. The unique geology and glacial history that have shaped this remarkable natural wonder.

Pausing to soak in the tranquility, the group prepares to depart Wastwater, eager to explore the next highlights of the Coniston fells on their High Mountain Passes adventure.

Surrounding High Screes and Mountains

Towering high above the tranquil waters of Wastwater, the surrounding screes and mountains command awe-inspiring attention.

Formed by ancient glacial activity, these rugged peaks and ridges rise abruptly from the lake’s shores, their imposing presence etched into the landscape.

Jagged rock walls plunge dramatically down to the lake’s edge, creating a dramatic and otherworldly setting.

The most prominent of these is the iconic Scafell Pike, England’s highest mountain, which dominates the horizon.

Nearby, the high, craggy fells of Pillar, Great Gable, and Kirk Fell add to the breathtaking alpine panorama.

These wild, untamed landscapes offer a glimpse into the raw power of nature, leaving visitors humbled by their sheer scale and beauty.

Coniston Water and the Coniston Fells

After exploring the dramatic landscapes surrounding Wastwater, the tour then heads back via Coniston Water and the Coniston fells. Situated in the southwestern region of the Lake District, Coniston Water is a picturesque lake framed by the rugged Coniston Fells, a range of steep, craggy mountains that rise sharply from its shores.

The tour will offer travelers a chance to admire the stunning vistas across this iconic lake, taking in the imposing presence of Coniston Old Man, the highest peak in the Coniston range at 2,634 feet (803 meters).

Highlights of this part of the tour include:

1. Panoramic views of the Coniston Fells and their reflections in the still waters of Coniston Water.
2. A glimpse of the historic Brantwood house, once home to the famous Victorian writer John Ruskin.
3. Passing through the charming village of Coniston, known for its slate mining and outdoor pursuits heritage.

Tour Details and Cancellation Policy

The tour lasts a full day, with travelers journeying in a small Mercedes Sprinter minivan. On-board commentary in English provides insights throughout the experience. Entrance fees to attractions are not included in the tour cost. While the tour involves minimal walking, it is not wheelchair accessible, and children must be at least 5 years old to participate.

Cancellation Policy	Tour Details
Cancellations up to 24 hours in advance receive a full refund	Tour duration: Full-day
Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable	Tour operated in a small mini-coach
Tour may be canceled due to poor weather or minimum number of travelers not met	On-board commentary in English

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, passengers are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, there may not be opportunities to purchase supplies during the trip, so it’s recommended to come prepared with all necessary provisions.

Do You Provide Any Snacks or Refreshments During the Tour?

The tour operator does not provide any snacks or refreshments during the tour. Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks to consume during the tour. Restroom and refreshment stops may be available at certain points along the route.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The maximum group size for this small-group tour is limited, typically ranging from 8 to 16 participants. This ensures a more intimate and personalized experience as you explore the Lake District’s breathtaking landscapes in a comfortable Mercedes Sprinter minivan.

Do You Offer Private Tours or Can I Customize the Itinerary?

The tour operator doesn’t offer private tours or custom itineraries. The tour has a fixed itinerary and group size to ensure a quality experience. However, guests can always contact the operator directly to discuss any special needs or requests.

What Is the Dress Code or Recommended Attire for the Tour?

For this type of small-group outdoor adventure tour, the recommended attire includes sturdy hiking boots, weather-appropriate layers, and rain gear. Comfortable, moisture-wicking fabrics are advised to ensure a enjoyable experience in the Lake District’s changing mountain environment.

Recap

The High Adventure: Full Day Mountain Goat High Mountain Passes Tour offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes of the Lake District.

Visitors will journey through the Langdale Valley, scale the challenging Wrynose and Hardknott Passes, and discover the Hardknott Roman Fort.

With breathtaking panoramic views, a visit to England’s deepest lake, and minimal walking required, this tour is the perfect way to take in the rugged beauty of the region’s central mountains and western fells.