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There are several routes to the top; however, the two most popular trails are the Brown Tongue Route from Wasdale and the Guides Route from Seathwaite. The Brown Tongue Route, which begins (and ends) in Wasdale Head, at the north end of Wastwater, is the most common and most straightforward. To take it, start from outside the Wasdale Head Inn and follow the road south towards Wastwater. After approximately 300 yards you'll meet a sharp bend in the road, cross the stile here and head east following the path to the National Trust campsite. Continue past the site, alongside Brackenclose Wood, and your ascent will soon bring you to Lingmell Gill. Now it's simply a case of following the stream upwards until you come to Brown Tongue, a shallow valley with scree underfoot. A little way past Brown Tongue, the path forks, with the right-hand track leading to Mickledore and the left heading north-east towards the top of Piers Gill. Take the left-hand path and you will soon reach Lingmell Col; follow it south-eastwards to reach the summit.
The Guides Route from Seathwaite was made famous by Alfred Wainwright, best known for publishing his seven Pictorial Guides to the Lakeland Fells. It's a circular walk that ascends from the north face and reaches the Pike's summit halfway. To follow it take the right-hand track at Stockley Bridge towards Sty Head Pass. Once there ascend a little further southwards and you'll come to one of the mountain's few pools, Sprinkling Tarn. From here the path takes an easy gradient to a point close to Lingmell. Take a left here and a cairned route will lead you to the summit. Once you reach the top you'll be rewarded with a spectacular view that incorporates the breathtaking neighbouring fells, as well as Windermere, Derwent Water and Wastwater. Also waiting for you there is a large cairn, which among its many stones, contains an inscription commemorating the men of the Lake District who fought and died in the First World War.
When taking the Guides Route, a good plan is to return via Esk Hause and then Sprinkling Tarn for an easy descent. If time and weather permit, it may be well worth taking the narrow ridge of Mickledore, which leads to the adjacent Sca Fell. The ridge is simple to walk across and you can return to your inward route by descending Lord's Rake, to the west of Scafell Pike.
Please remember, however, that these routes should not be whimsical undertakings; they should be planned out in advance. Remember to wear warm, brightly coloured clothes, check the forecast for any bad weather and take food and water along with you.
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