Slight Side from Eskdale

This is a 6.2-mile (9.9 km) out-and-back from the small gravel car park opposite Wha House Farm. The mapped line follows the initial fellside path and the Terrace Route to Slight Side's summit, then returns the same way. It is a mountain walk, not a gentle valley stroll: a long steady approach eventually gives way to a steep final ramp over loose scree and large boulders.

The opening climb through bracken and gates leads past Hare Crag, Goat Crag, Dawsonground Crags and Cat Crag. The Terrace Route is the best part, with broad views down Eskdale toward Hard Knott and across the western fells. Around Catcove Beck and Cow Cove the path becomes faint, wet and sometimes boggy. Quagrigg Moss adds rough, indistinct ground before the summit pull. The top is a small cairn on a boulder outcrop with views along the Scafell ridge.

The path fades near Catcove Beck and on the edge of Quagrigg Moss, so keep the route in view and take a map. Dogs can use the route, but there is a stile at the start and cattle may roam across the fell. Keep dogs close and under control around livestock. If you would rather have a more varied outing with tarns, the Eel Tarn and Stony Tarn walk from Eskdale is the better choice; pick this one for the quiet Wainwright summit and the direct climb.