Standing proud over Wasdale Head, this isolated rock pinnacle sits high on the south-west side of Great Gable. The original climb up Napes Needle was done in 1886 (W.P. Heskett Smith, via the Wasdale Crack). Over a century later it’s still a unique and popular mountaineering challenge. Why not give it a go yourself and climb in his pioneering footsteps?
Although it is well within the grasp of many climbers, many opt for a guided ascent of Napes Needle because of the difficulties in getting back down safely. The easiest route up the Needle is via The Arete, which along with the Wasdale Crack are graded Hard Severe (HS). Both routes join at the ‘shoulder’ and share the final mantle shelf onto the top. On a clear day, the views from here are stunning. Once back down, an ascent of Needle Ridge which lies just behind provides a fitting continuation.
From the top of Needle Ridge, the summit of Great Gable lies just above and can be reached either by walking or via another climb, such as Pinnacle Ridge on Westmoreland Crags. Equally, guided rock climbing on Napes Needle can be combined with an ascent of other routes in the vicinity such as the awesome Tophet Wall.
*Please note that the Napes Needle area is generally a multi-pitch climbing environment so some previous experience is required. If you have a good level of fitness and the skills of a competent second, then please contact us for more information and to organise a day climbing here.
Guided Rock Climbing works well on a 1:1 or 1:2 basis (instructor to participant) and can be booked from one day to a week in duration.
Our pricing structure is based on a sliding scale with a reduced daily fee for every additional day booked. If you would like to reserve a contingency day around your preferred date/s in order to pick the best weather and conditions for your course or activity we may be able to arrange this for an additional fee. For more details, please see our pricing structure.
Please get in touch using the enquiry form on this page and we’ll get back to you with all of the details and a booking form for you to complete. We require a 30% deposit to secure bookings and full payment prior to your course or activity commencing. If you would like any more information or have a specific question, please use the contact form in the menu at the top of the page.
If you have your own harness, helmet and rock shoes we will be happy for you to use them as long as they are suitable. You will also need a belay device and a couple of screw gate carabiners. If you don’t have anything, we can provide it. However, you will need to bring a rucksack, waterproofs, suitable footwear and a packed lunch.
