Grisedale Tarn and Helvellyn from Patterdale

This route climbs the long, quiet valley of Grisedale from Patterdale, passing the shepherd's hut at Ruthwaite Lodge before reaching the atmospheric dark waters of Grisedale Tarn at Dollywaggon's foot. From there a steep pull up the Dollywaggon zigzags gains the Helvellyn ridge, with an airy traverse over Nethermost Pike to the 950m summit of England's third highest mountain. It is a dog friendly adventure for strong hill dogs, with none of the exposure of Striding Edge if you return the same way.

Parking in Patterdale is at the village pay and display or the honesty box at the sports field opposite the White Lion. Herdwick sheep graze the whole of Grisedale and the Helvellyn tops, so dogs must stay on a lead throughout, especially around the crags above Grisedale Tarn where ground-nesting birds also breed. The terrain is stepped stone path in the valley, then steep pitched path and rocky summit ridge, with reliable water at Grisedale Beck and the tarn itself. The White Lion and Patterdale Hotel offer dog friendly refreshments at the end of the walk.