Managed by the National Trust, Wastwater is another body of water in the Lake District to visit to escape the crowds. In Wasdale Valley, the glacial lake is almost 3 miles long, a third of a mile wide, and 258 feet deep. While the surface of the lake is 200 feet above sea level, the bottom is about 50 feet below it.
Wastwater is a superb paddle but can be quite exposed. It’s surrounded by mountains including Red Pike, Kirk Fell, Great Gable and Scafell Pike which is England’s highest mountain.
This certainly makes it one of the most spectacular paddles in the Lakes, with something to offer all year round from snow capped mountains to bright, sunny skies. Just make sure you dress for the weather!
Remember, like with the lakes Ullswater or Windermere parts of the Lake District lakes can be quite exposed. Make sure you’ve planned your route if you’re going touring.
Plan ahead with the weather and be well prepared for a day on the water. You can find more information about paddling safely here.