The best UK hikes for the winter period have been revealed – and the top spot has been handed to a trek across England’s highest mountain.
The Scafell Pike trail from Wasdale Campsite has been crowned the UK’s best winter hike.
Scafell Pike is the highest mountain in England, reaching a height of 978m and drawing in hikers who want to tick off the UK’s highest peaks.
New analysis from outdoor experts Blacks ranks the UK’s best winter hikes using winter search demand, winter mentions in AllTrails reviews, trail ratings, and difficulty level.
The Scafell Pike gained an impressive score of 9.11 out of 10.
With the most Google searches and an elevation gain of 108.59km, this trail is ideal for those who want to test their winter hiking abilities.
Yr Wyddfa via the Llanberis Path takes second place.
With an overall score of 8.12 out of 10, it ranks as the highest-placed winter hike in Wales.
The best UK hikes for the winter period have been revealed – and the top spot has been handed to Scafell Pike
In winter conditions, the route offers a long, sustained ascent that rewards strong, steady pacing and good judgement, finishing with wide-reaching, breathtaking views across Snowdonia from the summit.
Rated 4.8 out of five on AllTrails, one of the highest scores in the ranking, the route’s consistent gradient and exposure at altitude offer a more demanding way to take on Yr Wyddfa in winter.
The Old Man of Storr Circular rounds out the top three with a winter hike score of 7.9 out of 10.
This path is also the best in Scotland, and is arguably the most popular hike on the Isle of Skye.
The hike offers spectacular views of unique rock pinnacles like the Old Man and Needle Rock.
With an elevation gain of 67.17km, it is a challenging hike, but it is worth it for the incredible landscapes.
Natalie Wolfenden, author and hiking enthusiast at Blacks, said: ‘Winter offers some of the UK’s most striking mountain and forest conditions, but it also places greater demands on kit choice and route planning.
‘Rapidly changing weather, reduced daylight and variable underfoot conditions mean winter hikes require a more disciplined approach than at other times of year.
Scafell Pike surrounded by rocky grasslands in the Lake District
The UK’s 10 Best Winter Hikes: Scafell Pike, from Wasdale Campsite, Cumbria, EnglandYr Wyddfa via Llanberis Path, Gwynedd, WalesThe Old Man of Storr Circular, Highland, Scotland The Quiraing Circuit, Highland, ScotlandBen Lomond Mountain Path, Glasgow, ScotlandSlieve Binnian and North Tor Circular, Newry, Mourne and Down, Northern IrelandBen A’an, Stirling, ScotlandCadair Idris, Mynydd Moel, Craig Lwyd, and Tal-y-Llyn Circular, Gwynedd, WalesThe Cobbler, Argyll and Bute, ScotlandPen y Fan Horseshoe, Merthyr Tydfil, Wales
‘A robust layering system is essential, with moisture-wicking baselayers, effective mid-layers and a dependable insulated jacket to manage exposure over longer distances.
‘Walking poles can provide valuable stability on icy, compacted or uneven terrain, particularly on steeper ascents and descents.
‘In winter, preparation is critical. Earlier starts help maximise daylight, while close attention to forecasts and conditions at elevation can reduce risk.
‘Carrying additional insulation, fuel and hydration is recommended, especially on exposed routes where conditions can deteriorate quickly and sticking to established lines is key when snow and ice make terrain less predictable.’
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Revealed: The best winter hike in the UK is across England’s highest mountain
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