762 m summit in Lake District. 8 forecast days covering wind, cloud, rain and temperature, updated 4 November 2026 at 06:35 UTC.
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Confidence: Medium
Overall hill weather72Good
Summit wind · 08:00-17:0010-30 mph easterlySummit gusts · 08:00-17:0030-40 mphFeels like-4 to 0°CPrecipitationUp to around 2 mmCloud-free summit estimate55%Cloud base through day600-1,200 mFreezing levelAbove summitDaylightSunrise 07:19 · Sunset 16:32 · 9.2 hours daylight
The day on the hill
A good day on Slight Side: breezy on the tops.
Wind
On the summit expect an easterly wind of around 10–20 mph first thing, rising to 20–30 mph by midday, with gusts of 30–40 mph at the windiest. Lower down on the open hillside it will be more like 5–15 mph. Gusts like that will be noticeable on ridges and open tops, and you will chill quickly when you stop. It gets windier still after dark, with summit gusts of 35–45 mph, so bear that in mind if you will be out late.
Cloud and visibility
The tops are likely to drift in and out of cloud, with the best chance of a clear summit mid-morning. The cloud base sits close to summit height, so the top could go in and out of cloud at short notice. The air should be clear, so expect far-reaching views whenever the tops come out of the cloud.
Rain and ground
Spells of rain, mostly around midday.
Warmth and kit
On the tops it will be around 2 to 6°C, feeling like -4 to 0°C in the wind. The freezing level is above the summits. Take a hat, gloves, a windproof and a spare warm layer.
Daylight
Sunset is around 4:30pm, so allow time to get off the hill before dark, and carry a head torch.
Forecast confidence
Cloud height is hard to pin down, so the summit could be in or out of cloud at short notice. Things could still change through the day, so keep an eye on the sky.
Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine
The surrounding model grid indicates 2.4 h of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.
Morning · 08:00–12:00
ExcellentSummit winds around 10-20 mph. Gusts around 20-30 mph are possible on exposed ground. Summit cloud is more persistent early in this period, with better prospects later. Rain is forecast during this period.
88
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00
MixedWinds strengthen compared with the morning. Summit winds around 20-30 mph. Gusts around 30-40 mph are possible on exposed ground. Summit cloud becomes more persistent later. Rain is forecast during this period.
57
Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.
Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaA poor night to camp on open ground: gusts of about 35 mph.39Poor · 600 mView detailsHide details
Night beginning Wednesday 4 November 2026
Full overnight outlook
A poor night to camp on open ground. Gusts reach about 35 mph on open ground, which makes for a noisy, testing night even in a good tent. Look for shelter from the east. It should stay dry. The air is damp at every height we checked (300-600 m), so expect heavy condensation. Leave the vents open. Overnight lows of about 4°C at 300 m. A warm 3-season or 3–4 season bag rated to about 0°C comfort, and a warm mat, should do. Allow more if you sleep cold.
Extensive cloud may limit moonlight. Illumination describes the sunlit part of the Moon, not brightness at your pitch.
Overnight window: 4 Nov, 17:00 GMT to 5 Nov, 08:00 GMT. Approximate open-horizon times; hills can hide the Moon. Still take a headtorch.
Elevation reference (open ground)
300 m59 · mixed
Wind / gust
20 mph / 30 mph
Typical / low
4.1°C / 3.7°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
High
600 m39 · poor
Wind / gust
24 mph / 36 mph
Typical / low
4.1°C / 3.7°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
High
Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a warm 3-season or 3–4 season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about 0°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.
Did this match your night?Share a quick observation to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback →
Daytime · exposed rockClimbing & scramblingBetaPoor conditions for exposed scrambling: gusts of 30–40 mph.Poor35View detailsHide details
Generic exposed-rock guidance
Full climbing & scrambling outlook
Poor conditions for exposed scrambling. The rock is likely to be wet and slippery through the day. Gusts of 30–40 mph could throw you off balance on exposed moves and ridges. Cloud on the tops may make route-finding and retreat harder. The rock around the summit is mostly basalt, a dark volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and can be very slippery when wet. It is often blocky and shattered, with loose rubble on ledges. On the usual routes up you may also cross andesite, which grips well when dry and is fair when wet, though polished holds on popular routes get slippery. These are general notes for each rock type, taken from geological maps around the summit, so the rock on your line may differ.
Rock surfaceWet rock likelyPeak gust30-40 mphRain0.4 mm
Main factorsgusts of 30–40 mphwet rock likely
Representative rock around the summit and along available routes
BasaltThrostle Garth Basalt Member
Origin
Igneous
Broad rock-response group
Volcanic rock
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Summit area
Volcanic rock in 100% of 17 BGS samples within 350 m
Basalt is a dark volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and can be very slippery when wet. It is often blocky and shattered, with loose rubble on ledges. These are general notes for each rock type, from geological map samples at and around the summit. The rock on your line can differ, and lichen, vegetation and seepage all change how it feels underfoot.
Rock groups along the sampled routes
These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.
Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
volcanic rock
Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation
6 rock types appear in the mapped samples
Samples around the summit inform the main rock-response profile, with the summit pin shown separately where it differs. Route samples add further context, but this is not a continuous geological survey.
Summit-area sample
BasaltThrostle Garth Basalt Member622–723 m samplesSeen on Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
Basalt is a dark volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and can be very slippery when wet. It is often blocky and shattered, with loose rubble on ledges.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
AndesiteBirker Fell Andesite Formation198–515 m samplesSeen on Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
Andesite is a hard volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and is fair when wet, though polished holds on popular routes get slippery. It is generally solid, but shattered in gullies and on broken ground.
BGS record →
Route sample
DaciteScafell Dacite MemberAround 936 mSeen on Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
Rhyolite is a hard, fine-grained volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and gets slippery on smoother faces when wet. It is hard, but often cracked into sharp, blocky pieces, so some holds are loose.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
Felsic tuffCrinkle Tuff MemberAround 827 mSeen on Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
Volcanic tuff is rock formed from compacted volcanic ash and debris. It is rough and grippy when dry and usually still grips reasonably when wet. It is mostly solid, in slabs and ledges, though weathered patches can be crumbly.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
Rhyolitic lapilli-tuffLong Top Tuff Member
Volcanic tuff is rock formed from compacted volcanic ash and debris. It is rough and grippy when dry and usually still grips reasonably when wet. It is mostly solid, in slabs and ledges, though weathered patches can be crumbly.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
Andesitic lapilli-tuffWet Side Edge Tuff Member
Volcanic tuff is rock formed from compacted volcanic ash and debris. It is rough and grippy when dry and usually still grips reasonably when wet. It is mostly solid, in slabs and ledges, though weathered patches can be crumbly.
Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit
For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.
Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part
Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.
This is about Slight Side on Wednesday 4 November 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.
Summit wind · 08:00-17:0020-35 mph easterlySummit gusts · 08:00-17:0035-45 mphFeels like-4 to 0°CPrecipitationLittle or noneCloud-free summit estimate70%Cloud base through day600-1,100 mFreezing levelAbove summitDaylightSunrise 07:21 · Sunset 16:30 · 9.1 hours daylight
The day on the hill
A mixed day on Slight Side, with a blustery wind.
Wind
On the summit expect an easterly wind of 20–35 mph for most of the day, with gusts of 35–45 mph at the windiest. Lower down on the open hillside it will be more like 10–20 mph. Gusts like that are strong enough to make walking into it hard work, with buffeting on ridges and edges.
Cloud and visibility
The tops are likely to drift in and out of cloud, with the best chance of a clear summit mid-morning. The cloud base could be as low as 600–900 m mid-afternoon. The air should be clear, so expect far-reaching views as long as the tops stay clear.
Rain and ground
It should stay dry.
Warmth and kit
On the tops it will be around 2 to 6°C, feeling like -4 to 0°C in the wind. The freezing level is above the summits. Take a hat, gloves, a windproof and a spare warm layer.
Daylight
Sunset is around 4:30pm, so allow time to get off the hill before dark, and carry a head torch.
Forecast confidence
Cloud height is hard to pin down, so the summit could be in or out of cloud at short notice. Some of the detail could still change, so have a last look at the forecast in the morning before you set off.
Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine
The surrounding model grid indicates Less than 1 hour of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.
Morning · 08:00–12:00
MixedSummit winds around 25-35 mph. Gusts around 35-45 mph are possible on exposed ground. Gusts this strong can make walking into it hard work, with buffeting on ridges and edges. Summit cloud is more persistent early in this period, with better prospects later.
52
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00
MixedSummit winds around 20-30 mph. Gusts around 35-45 mph are possible on exposed ground. Gusts this strong can make walking into it hard work, with buffeting on ridges and edges. Summit cloud becomes more persistent later.
63
Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.
Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaA poor night to camp on open ground: gusts of about 40 mph.39Poor · 600 mView detailsHide details
Night beginning Thursday 5 November 2026
Full overnight outlook
A poor night to camp on open ground. Gusts reach about 40 mph on open ground, which makes for a noisy, testing night even in a good tent. Look for shelter from the east. It should stay dry. The air is damp at every height we checked (300-600 m), so expect heavy condensation. Leave the vents open. Overnight lows of about 4°C at 300 m. A 3-season bag rated to about 2°C comfort, and a warm mat, should do. Allow more if you sleep cold.
Extensive cloud may limit moonlight. Illumination describes the sunlit part of the Moon, not brightness at your pitch.
Overnight window: 5 Nov, 17:00 GMT to 6 Nov, 08:00 GMT. Approximate open-horizon times; hills can hide the Moon. Still take a headtorch.
Elevation reference (open ground)
300 m59 · mixed
Wind / gust
18 mph / 31 mph
Typical / low
4.6°C / 4.1°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
High
600 m39 · poor
Wind / gust
21 mph / 38 mph
Typical / low
4.6°C / 4.1°C · much of the night
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
High
Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a 3-season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about 2°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.
Did this match your night?Share a quick observation to help improve this beta forecast.Give feedback →
Daytime · exposed rockClimbing & scramblingBetaPoor conditions for exposed scrambling: gusts of 35–45 mph.Poor39View detailsHide details
Generic exposed-rock guidance
Full climbing & scrambling outlook
Poor conditions for exposed scrambling. The rock should be mostly dry, though drainage lines and shaded holds may still be damp. Gusts of 35–45 mph could throw you off balance on exposed moves and ridges. Cloud on the tops may make route-finding and retreat harder. The rock around the summit is mostly basalt, a dark volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and can be very slippery when wet. It is often blocky and shattered, with loose rubble on ledges. On the usual routes up you may also cross andesite, which grips well when dry and is fair when wet, though polished holds on popular routes get slippery. These are general notes for each rock type, taken from geological maps around the summit, so the rock on your line may differ.
Rock surfaceProbably dryPeak gust35-45 mphRain0.1 mm
Main concerngusts of 35–45 mph
Representative rock around the summit and along available routes
BasaltThrostle Garth Basalt Member
Origin
Igneous
Broad rock-response group
Volcanic rock
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Summit area
Volcanic rock in 100% of 17 BGS samples within 350 m
Basalt is a dark volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and can be very slippery when wet. It is often blocky and shattered, with loose rubble on ledges. These are general notes for each rock type, from geological map samples at and around the summit. The rock on your line can differ, and lichen, vegetation and seepage all change how it feels underfoot.
Rock groups along the sampled routes
These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.
Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
volcanic rock
Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation
6 rock types appear in the mapped samples
Samples around the summit inform the main rock-response profile, with the summit pin shown separately where it differs. Route samples add further context, but this is not a continuous geological survey.
Summit-area sample
BasaltThrostle Garth Basalt Member622–723 m samplesSeen on Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
Basalt is a dark volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and can be very slippery when wet. It is often blocky and shattered, with loose rubble on ledges.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
AndesiteBirker Fell Andesite Formation198–515 m samplesSeen on Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
Andesite is a hard volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and is fair when wet, though polished holds on popular routes get slippery. It is generally solid, but shattered in gullies and on broken ground.
BGS record →
Route sample
DaciteScafell Dacite MemberAround 936 mSeen on Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
Rhyolite is a hard, fine-grained volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and gets slippery on smoother faces when wet. It is hard, but often cracked into sharp, blocky pieces, so some holds are loose.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
Felsic tuffCrinkle Tuff MemberAround 827 mSeen on Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
Volcanic tuff is rock formed from compacted volcanic ash and debris. It is rough and grippy when dry and usually still grips reasonably when wet. It is mostly solid, in slabs and ledges, though weathered patches can be crumbly.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
Rhyolitic lapilli-tuffLong Top Tuff Member
Volcanic tuff is rock formed from compacted volcanic ash and debris. It is rough and grippy when dry and usually still grips reasonably when wet. It is mostly solid, in slabs and ledges, though weathered patches can be crumbly.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
Andesitic lapilli-tuffWet Side Edge Tuff Member
Volcanic tuff is rock formed from compacted volcanic ash and debris. It is rough and grippy when dry and usually still grips reasonably when wet. It is mostly solid, in slabs and ledges, though weathered patches can be crumbly.
Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit
For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.
Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part
Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.
This is about Slight Side on Thursday 5 November 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.
Summit wind · 08:00-17:005-20 mph easterlySummit gusts · 08:00-17:0015-25 mphFeels like-4 to 0°CPrecipitationLittle or noneCloud-free summit estimate45%Cloud base through day700-1,000 mFreezing levelAbove summitDaylightSunrise 07:23 · Sunset 16:28 · 9.1 hours daylight
The day on the hill
A good day on Slight Side, though expect cloud coming and going on the summit.
Wind
On the summit expect an easterly wind of 5–20 mph for most of the day, with gusts of 15–25 mph at the windiest. Lower down on the open hillside the wind will be light, under 10 mph.
Cloud and visibility
Expect the summit to be in cloud for most of the day. The cloud base could be as low as 600–900 m early in the morning.
Rain and ground
It should stay dry.
Warmth and kit
On the tops it will be around 2 to 6°C, feeling like -4 to 0°C in the wind. The freezing level is above the summits. Take a hat, gloves, a windproof and a spare warm layer.
Daylight
Sunset is around 4:30pm, so allow time to get off the hill before dark, and carry a head torch.
Forecast confidence
Cloud height is hard to pin down, so the summit could be in or out of cloud at short notice. It's still two days off and could change, so check again nearer the time.
Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine
The surrounding model grid indicates 2.3 h of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.
Cloud may obscure this summit even while the surrounding model grid indicates sunshine. The low cloud-free summit estimate is a reason to be cautious about expecting views.
Morning · 08:00–12:00
MixedSummit winds around 10-20 mph. Gusts around 15-25 mph are possible on exposed ground.
64
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00
GoodSummit winds around 5-15 mph. Gusts around 15-25 mph are possible on exposed ground. Summit cloud is more persistent early in this period, with better prospects later.
76
Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.
Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaA mixed night to camp: dry, with light winds.59Mixed · 600 mView detailsHide details
Night beginning Friday 6 November 2026
Full overnight outlook
A mixed night to camp. Light winds on open ground, gusting no more than about 15 mph. It should stay dry. Overnight lows of about 5°C at 300 m. A 3-season bag rated to about 2°C comfort, and a warm mat, should do. Allow more if you sleep cold.
Cloud may affect views of the Moon. Illumination describes the sunlit part of the Moon, not brightness at your pitch.
Overnight window: 6 Nov, 17:00 GMT to 7 Nov, 08:00 GMT. Approximate open-horizon times; hills can hide the Moon. Still take a headtorch.
Elevation reference (open ground)
300 m59 · mixed
Wind / gust
4 mph / 12 mph
Typical / low
5.0°C / 4.8°C · several hours
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Moderate
600 m59 · mixed
Wind / gust
5 mph / 14 mph
Typical / low
5.0°C / 4.8°C · several hours
In cloud
0% of modelled night
Condensation
Moderate
Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a 3-season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about 2°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.
Good conditions for exposed scrambling. The rock should be mostly dry, though drainage lines and shaded holds may still be damp. Cloud on the tops may make route-finding and retreat harder. The rock around the summit is mostly basalt, a dark volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and can be very slippery when wet. It is often blocky and shattered, with loose rubble on ledges. On the usual routes up you may also cross andesite, which grips well when dry and is fair when wet, though polished holds on popular routes get slippery. These are general notes for each rock type, taken from geological maps around the summit, so the rock on your line may differ.
Rock surfaceProbably dryPeak gust15-25 mphRain0.0 mm
Main concernmuch of the route may be in cloud
Representative rock around the summit and along available routes
BasaltThrostle Garth Basalt Member
Origin
Igneous
Broad rock-response group
Volcanic rock
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Summit area
Volcanic rock in 100% of 17 BGS samples within 350 m
Basalt is a dark volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and can be very slippery when wet. It is often blocky and shattered, with loose rubble on ledges. These are general notes for each rock type, from geological map samples at and around the summit. The rock on your line can differ, and lichen, vegetation and seepage all change how it feels underfoot.
Rock groups along the sampled routes
These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.
Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
volcanic rock
Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation
6 rock types appear in the mapped samples
Samples around the summit inform the main rock-response profile, with the summit pin shown separately where it differs. Route samples add further context, but this is not a continuous geological survey.
Summit-area sample
BasaltThrostle Garth Basalt Member622–723 m samplesSeen on Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
Basalt is a dark volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and can be very slippery when wet. It is often blocky and shattered, with loose rubble on ledges.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
AndesiteBirker Fell Andesite Formation198–515 m samplesSeen on Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
Andesite is a hard volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and is fair when wet, though polished holds on popular routes get slippery. It is generally solid, but shattered in gullies and on broken ground.
BGS record →
Route sample
DaciteScafell Dacite MemberAround 936 mSeen on Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
Rhyolite is a hard, fine-grained volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and gets slippery on smoother faces when wet. It is hard, but often cracked into sharp, blocky pieces, so some holds are loose.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
Felsic tuffCrinkle Tuff MemberAround 827 mSeen on Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
Volcanic tuff is rock formed from compacted volcanic ash and debris. It is rough and grippy when dry and usually still grips reasonably when wet. It is mostly solid, in slabs and ledges, though weathered patches can be crumbly.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
Rhyolitic lapilli-tuffLong Top Tuff Member
Volcanic tuff is rock formed from compacted volcanic ash and debris. It is rough and grippy when dry and usually still grips reasonably when wet. It is mostly solid, in slabs and ledges, though weathered patches can be crumbly.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
Andesitic lapilli-tuffWet Side Edge Tuff Member
Volcanic tuff is rock formed from compacted volcanic ash and debris. It is rough and grippy when dry and usually still grips reasonably when wet. It is mostly solid, in slabs and ledges, though weathered patches can be crumbly.
Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit
For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.
Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part
Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.
This is about Slight Side on Friday 6 November 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.
A fine day on Slight Side: dry, with light winds and clear tops for most of the day.
Wind
On the summit expect light winds of up to 15 mph, mainly easterly, with gusts of 10–20 mph at the windiest.
Cloud and visibility
The tops are likely to stay mostly clear of cloud, though brief patches cannot be ruled out.
Rain and ground
It should stay dry.
Warmth and kit
On the tops it will be around 2 to 6°C, feeling like -2 to 2°C in the wind. The freezing level is close to summit height. Take a hat, gloves, a windproof and a spare warm layer.
Daylight
Sunset is around 4:25pm, so allow time to get off the hill before dark, and carry a head torch.
Forecast confidence
It's still three days off, so check again nearer the time.
Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine
The surrounding model grid indicates 7.8 h of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.
Morning · 08:00–12:00
ExcellentSummit winds around 5-15 mph. Gusts around 10-20 mph are possible on exposed ground.
90
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00
ExcellentSummit winds around 5-15 mph. Gusts around 10-20 mph are possible on exposed ground.
88
Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.
Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaA mixed night to camp, mainly because of the cold: dry, with light winds.59Mixed · 600 mView detailsHide details
Night beginning Saturday 7 November 2026
Full overnight outlook
A mixed night to camp, mainly because of the cold. Light winds on open ground, gusting no more than about 10 mph. It should stay dry. Overnight lows of about 4°C at 600 m. A 3-season bag rated to about 2°C comfort, and a warm mat, should do. Allow more if you sleep cold.
Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a 3-season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about 2°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.
Good conditions for exposed scrambling. It should stay mostly dry, but a passing shower could leave the rock damp and slippery. The rock around the summit is mostly basalt, a dark volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and can be very slippery when wet. It is often blocky and shattered, with loose rubble on ledges. On the usual routes up you may also cross andesite, which grips well when dry and is fair when wet, though polished holds on popular routes get slippery. These are general notes for each rock type, taken from geological maps around the summit, so the rock on your line may differ.
Rock surfaceDry initially; rain possiblePeak gust10-20 mphRainPossible · 25%
Main concernrain possible despite mostly dry conditions being favoured
Representative rock around the summit and along available routes
BasaltThrostle Garth Basalt Member
Origin
Igneous
Broad rock-response group
Volcanic rock
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Summit area
Volcanic rock in 100% of 17 BGS samples within 350 m
Basalt is a dark volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and can be very slippery when wet. It is often blocky and shattered, with loose rubble on ledges. These are general notes for each rock type, from geological map samples at and around the summit. The rock on your line can differ, and lichen, vegetation and seepage all change how it feels underfoot.
Rock groups along the sampled routes
These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.
Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
volcanic rock
Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation
6 rock types appear in the mapped samples
Samples around the summit inform the main rock-response profile, with the summit pin shown separately where it differs. Route samples add further context, but this is not a continuous geological survey.
Summit-area sample
BasaltThrostle Garth Basalt Member622–723 m samplesSeen on Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
Basalt is a dark volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and can be very slippery when wet. It is often blocky and shattered, with loose rubble on ledges.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
AndesiteBirker Fell Andesite Formation198–515 m samplesSeen on Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
Andesite is a hard volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and is fair when wet, though polished holds on popular routes get slippery. It is generally solid, but shattered in gullies and on broken ground.
BGS record →
Route sample
DaciteScafell Dacite MemberAround 936 mSeen on Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
Rhyolite is a hard, fine-grained volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and gets slippery on smoother faces when wet. It is hard, but often cracked into sharp, blocky pieces, so some holds are loose.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
Felsic tuffCrinkle Tuff MemberAround 827 mSeen on Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
Volcanic tuff is rock formed from compacted volcanic ash and debris. It is rough and grippy when dry and usually still grips reasonably when wet. It is mostly solid, in slabs and ledges, though weathered patches can be crumbly.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
Rhyolitic lapilli-tuffLong Top Tuff Member
Volcanic tuff is rock formed from compacted volcanic ash and debris. It is rough and grippy when dry and usually still grips reasonably when wet. It is mostly solid, in slabs and ledges, though weathered patches can be crumbly.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
Andesitic lapilli-tuffWet Side Edge Tuff Member
Volcanic tuff is rock formed from compacted volcanic ash and debris. It is rough and grippy when dry and usually still grips reasonably when wet. It is mostly solid, in slabs and ledges, though weathered patches can be crumbly.
Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit
For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.
Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part
Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.
This is about Slight Side on Saturday 7 November 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.
Summit wind · 08:00-17:000-10 mph northeasterlySummit gusts · 08:00-17:005-15 mphFeels like-2 to 2°CPrecipitationLittle or noneCloud-free summit estimate85%Cloud base through day900-1,200 mFreezing level800-1,100 mDaylightSunrise 07:27 · Sunset 16:24 · 8.9 hours daylight
The day on the hill
A good day on Slight Side: dry, with light winds and clear tops for most of the day.
Wind
On the summit expect light winds of up to 10 mph, mainly north-easterly, with gusts of 5–15 mph at the windiest.
Cloud and visibility
The tops should stay mostly clear of cloud. A few forecast models bring the cloud base down to around 500–800 m at times. The cloud base sits close to summit height, so the top could go in and out of cloud at short notice. Mist or fog is possible in the valleys early on, clearing by about 11am. It will look largely cloudy overhead, but that cloud should mostly stay above the tops.
Rain and ground
It should stay dry.
Warmth and kit
On the tops it will be around 2 to 6°C, feeling like -2 to 2°C in the wind. The freezing level is close to summit height. Take a warm layer and a hat for the top.
Daylight
A short day, with only about 9 hours of daylight. Sunset is around 4:25pm, so allow time to get off the hill before dark, and carry a head torch.
Forecast confidence
Cloud height is hard to pin down, so the summit could be in or out of cloud at short notice. It's still four days off and could change, so check again nearer the time.
Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine
The surrounding model grid indicates 3.9 h of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.
Morning · 08:00–12:00
GoodSummit winds around 0-10 mph. Gusts around 5-15 mph are possible on exposed ground.
77
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00
ExcellentSummit winds around 0-10 mph. Gusts around 5-15 mph are possible on exposed ground.
90
Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.
Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaA mixed night to camp, mainly because of the cold: dry, with light winds.59Mixed · 600 mView detailsHide details
Night beginning Sunday 8 November 2026
Full overnight outlook
A mixed night to camp, mainly because of the cold. Light winds on open ground, gusting no more than about 6 mph. It should stay dry. Overnight lows of about 4°C at 600 m. A 3-season bag rated to about 2°C comfort, and a warm mat, should do. Allow more if you sleep cold.
Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a 3-season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about 2°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.
Good conditions for exposed scrambling. The rock should be mostly dry, though drainage lines and shaded holds may still be damp. The rock around the summit is mostly basalt, a dark volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and can be very slippery when wet. It is often blocky and shattered, with loose rubble on ledges. On the usual routes up you may also cross andesite, which grips well when dry and is fair when wet, though polished holds on popular routes get slippery. These are general notes for each rock type, taken from geological maps around the summit, so the rock on your line may differ.
Rock surfaceProbably dryPeak gust5-15 mphRain0.0 mm
Representative rock around the summit and along available routes
BasaltThrostle Garth Basalt Member
Origin
Igneous
Broad rock-response group
Volcanic rock
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Summit area
Volcanic rock in 100% of 17 BGS samples within 350 m
Basalt is a dark volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and can be very slippery when wet. It is often blocky and shattered, with loose rubble on ledges. These are general notes for each rock type, from geological map samples at and around the summit. The rock on your line can differ, and lichen, vegetation and seepage all change how it feels underfoot.
Rock groups along the sampled routes
These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.
Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
volcanic rock
Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation
6 rock types appear in the mapped samples
Samples around the summit inform the main rock-response profile, with the summit pin shown separately where it differs. Route samples add further context, but this is not a continuous geological survey.
Summit-area sample
BasaltThrostle Garth Basalt Member622–723 m samplesSeen on Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
Basalt is a dark volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and can be very slippery when wet. It is often blocky and shattered, with loose rubble on ledges.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
AndesiteBirker Fell Andesite Formation198–515 m samplesSeen on Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
Andesite is a hard volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and is fair when wet, though polished holds on popular routes get slippery. It is generally solid, but shattered in gullies and on broken ground.
BGS record →
Route sample
DaciteScafell Dacite MemberAround 936 mSeen on Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
Rhyolite is a hard, fine-grained volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and gets slippery on smoother faces when wet. It is hard, but often cracked into sharp, blocky pieces, so some holds are loose.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
Felsic tuffCrinkle Tuff MemberAround 827 mSeen on Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
Volcanic tuff is rock formed from compacted volcanic ash and debris. It is rough and grippy when dry and usually still grips reasonably when wet. It is mostly solid, in slabs and ledges, though weathered patches can be crumbly.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
Rhyolitic lapilli-tuffLong Top Tuff Member
Volcanic tuff is rock formed from compacted volcanic ash and debris. It is rough and grippy when dry and usually still grips reasonably when wet. It is mostly solid, in slabs and ledges, though weathered patches can be crumbly.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
Andesitic lapilli-tuffWet Side Edge Tuff Member
Volcanic tuff is rock formed from compacted volcanic ash and debris. It is rough and grippy when dry and usually still grips reasonably when wet. It is mostly solid, in slabs and ledges, though weathered patches can be crumbly.
Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit
For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.
Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part
Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.
This is about Slight Side on Sunday 8 November 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.
A fine day on Slight Side: dry, with light winds and clear tops for most of the day.
Wind
On the summit expect light winds of up to 10 mph, mainly south-easterly, with gusts of 0–10 mph at the windiest.
Cloud and visibility
The tops are likely to stay mostly clear of cloud, though brief patches cannot be ruled out.
Rain and ground
It should stay dry.
Warmth and kit
On the tops it will be around 0 to 4°C, feeling like -2 to 2°C in the wind. The freezing level is close to summit height. Take a warm layer and a hat for the top.
Daylight
A short day, with only about 9 hours of daylight. Sunset is around 4:20pm, so allow time to get off the hill before dark, and carry a head torch.
Forecast confidence
Cloud heights are particularly hard to pin down today. It's still five days off and could change, so check again nearer the time.
Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine
The surrounding model grid indicates 6.2 h of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.
Morning · 08:00–12:00
GoodSummit winds around 0-10 mph. Gusts around 0-10 mph are possible on exposed ground.
83
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00
ExcellentSummit winds around 0-10 mph. Gusts around 0-10 mph are possible on exposed ground.
100
Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.
Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaA mixed night to camp, mainly because of the cold: dry, with light winds.59Mixed · 600 mView detailsHide details
Night beginning Monday 9 November 2026
Full overnight outlook
A mixed night to camp, mainly because of the cold. Light winds on open ground, gusting no more than about 10 mph. It should stay dry. A cold night, down to about 3°C around 600 m. A warm 3-season or 3–4 season bag rated to about 0°C comfort, and a warm mat, should do. Allow more if you sleep cold.
Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a warm 3-season or 3–4 season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about 0°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.
Good conditions for exposed scrambling. The rock should be mostly dry, though drainage lines and shaded holds may still be damp. The rock around the summit is mostly basalt, a dark volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and can be very slippery when wet. It is often blocky and shattered, with loose rubble on ledges. On the usual routes up you may also cross andesite, which grips well when dry and is fair when wet, though polished holds on popular routes get slippery. These are general notes for each rock type, taken from geological maps around the summit, so the rock on your line may differ.
Rock surfaceProbably dryPeak gust0-10 mphRain0.0 mm
Representative rock around the summit and along available routes
BasaltThrostle Garth Basalt Member
Origin
Igneous
Broad rock-response group
Volcanic rock
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Summit area
Volcanic rock in 100% of 17 BGS samples within 350 m
Basalt is a dark volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and can be very slippery when wet. It is often blocky and shattered, with loose rubble on ledges. These are general notes for each rock type, from geological map samples at and around the summit. The rock on your line can differ, and lichen, vegetation and seepage all change how it feels underfoot.
Rock groups along the sampled routes
These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.
Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
volcanic rock
Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation
6 rock types appear in the mapped samples
Samples around the summit inform the main rock-response profile, with the summit pin shown separately where it differs. Route samples add further context, but this is not a continuous geological survey.
Summit-area sample
BasaltThrostle Garth Basalt Member622–723 m samplesSeen on Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
Basalt is a dark volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and can be very slippery when wet. It is often blocky and shattered, with loose rubble on ledges.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
AndesiteBirker Fell Andesite Formation198–515 m samplesSeen on Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
Andesite is a hard volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and is fair when wet, though polished holds on popular routes get slippery. It is generally solid, but shattered in gullies and on broken ground.
BGS record →
Route sample
DaciteScafell Dacite MemberAround 936 mSeen on Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
Rhyolite is a hard, fine-grained volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and gets slippery on smoother faces when wet. It is hard, but often cracked into sharp, blocky pieces, so some holds are loose.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
Felsic tuffCrinkle Tuff MemberAround 827 mSeen on Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
Volcanic tuff is rock formed from compacted volcanic ash and debris. It is rough and grippy when dry and usually still grips reasonably when wet. It is mostly solid, in slabs and ledges, though weathered patches can be crumbly.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
Rhyolitic lapilli-tuffLong Top Tuff Member
Volcanic tuff is rock formed from compacted volcanic ash and debris. It is rough and grippy when dry and usually still grips reasonably when wet. It is mostly solid, in slabs and ledges, though weathered patches can be crumbly.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
Andesitic lapilli-tuffWet Side Edge Tuff Member
Volcanic tuff is rock formed from compacted volcanic ash and debris. It is rough and grippy when dry and usually still grips reasonably when wet. It is mostly solid, in slabs and ledges, though weathered patches can be crumbly.
Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit
For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.
Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part
Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.
This is about Slight Side on Monday 9 November 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.
Dry and breezy on Slight Side. Cloud could cover the tops and limit the views.
Wind
On the summit expect a south-easterly wind of 5–25 mph for most of the day, with gusts of 25–35 mph at the windiest. Lower down on the open hillside it will be more like 5–15 mph. Gusts like that will be noticeable on ridges and open tops, and you will chill quickly when you stop.
Cloud and visibility
Clear spells are possible, but cloud could cover the tops for part of the day. Forecast models differ on how much summit cloud develops. A few forecast models bring the cloud base down to around 400–700 m at times. The cloud base sits close to summit height, so the top could go in and out of cloud at short notice. Mist or fog is possible in the valleys early on, clearing by about 7am.
Rain and ground
Dry through the daylight hours, but rain arrives after dark. Some forecast models bring rain, so don't count on it staying dry.
Warmth and kit
On the tops it will be around 0 to 4°C, feeling like -4 to 0°C in the wind. The freezing level is close to summit height. Take a hat, gloves, a windproof and a spare warm layer.
Daylight
A short day, with only about 9 hours of daylight. Sunset is around 4:20pm, so allow time to get off the hill before dark, and carry a head torch.
Forecast confidence
It's still six days off and could change, so check again nearer the time.
Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine
The surrounding model grid indicates 0.9 h of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.
Morning · 08:00–12:00
ExcellentSummit winds around 5-15 mph. Gusts around 15-25 mph are possible on exposed ground.
94
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00
GoodSummit winds around 10-25 mph. Gusts around 25-35 mph are possible on exposed ground.
83
Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.
Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaA mixed night to camp, mainly because of the rain: around 10 mm of rain.49Poor · 600 mView detailsHide details
Night beginning Tuesday 10 November 2026
Full overnight outlook
A mixed night to camp, mainly because of the rain. Gusts reach about 30 mph on open ground, so peg out well and use the guylines. Look for shelter from the southeast. Expect a wet night, around 10 mm of rain, with rain while you pitch and still falling when you pack up. Overnight lows of about 6°C at 300 m. A 3-season bag rated to about 2°C comfort, and a warm mat, should do. Allow more if you sleep cold.
Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a 3-season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about 2°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.
Good conditions for exposed scrambling. The rock should be drying, but damp patches, shaded holds and drainage lines may still be wet. Gusts of 25–35 mph could throw you off balance on exposed moves and ridges. The rock around the summit is mostly basalt, a dark volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and can be very slippery when wet. It is often blocky and shattered, with loose rubble on ledges. On the usual routes up you may also cross andesite, which grips well when dry and is fair when wet, though polished holds on popular routes get slippery. These are general notes for each rock type, taken from geological maps around the summit, so the rock on your line may differ.
Rock surfaceDamp or dryingPeak gust25-35 mphRain0.5 mm
Main concerndamp or incompletely dried rock possible
Representative rock around the summit and along available routes
BasaltThrostle Garth Basalt Member
Origin
Igneous
Broad rock-response group
Volcanic rock
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Summit area
Volcanic rock in 100% of 17 BGS samples within 350 m
Basalt is a dark volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and can be very slippery when wet. It is often blocky and shattered, with loose rubble on ledges. These are general notes for each rock type, from geological map samples at and around the summit. The rock on your line can differ, and lichen, vegetation and seepage all change how it feels underfoot.
Rock groups along the sampled routes
These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.
Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
volcanic rock
Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation
6 rock types appear in the mapped samples
Samples around the summit inform the main rock-response profile, with the summit pin shown separately where it differs. Route samples add further context, but this is not a continuous geological survey.
Summit-area sample
BasaltThrostle Garth Basalt Member622–723 m samplesSeen on Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
Basalt is a dark volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and can be very slippery when wet. It is often blocky and shattered, with loose rubble on ledges.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
AndesiteBirker Fell Andesite Formation198–515 m samplesSeen on Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
Andesite is a hard volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and is fair when wet, though polished holds on popular routes get slippery. It is generally solid, but shattered in gullies and on broken ground.
BGS record →
Route sample
DaciteScafell Dacite MemberAround 936 mSeen on Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
Rhyolite is a hard, fine-grained volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and gets slippery on smoother faces when wet. It is hard, but often cracked into sharp, blocky pieces, so some holds are loose.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
Felsic tuffCrinkle Tuff MemberAround 827 mSeen on Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
Volcanic tuff is rock formed from compacted volcanic ash and debris. It is rough and grippy when dry and usually still grips reasonably when wet. It is mostly solid, in slabs and ledges, though weathered patches can be crumbly.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
Rhyolitic lapilli-tuffLong Top Tuff Member
Volcanic tuff is rock formed from compacted volcanic ash and debris. It is rough and grippy when dry and usually still grips reasonably when wet. It is mostly solid, in slabs and ledges, though weathered patches can be crumbly.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
Andesitic lapilli-tuffWet Side Edge Tuff Member
Volcanic tuff is rock formed from compacted volcanic ash and debris. It is rough and grippy when dry and usually still grips reasonably when wet. It is mostly solid, in slabs and ledges, though weathered patches can be crumbly.
Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit
For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.
Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part
Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.
This is about Slight Side on Tuesday 10 November 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.
A mixed day on Slight Side, with burns likely to be in spate and rain for much of the day.
Things to watch
Burns and rivers are likely to be in spate through the day and overnight, so unbridged crossings could be difficult or impossible. Timings are rough. Turn back if a crossing looks unsafe.
Wind
On the summit expect light winds of up to 15 mph, mainly easterly, with gusts of 15–25 mph at the windiest. Lower down on the open hillside the wind will be light, under 10 mph. It gets windier still after dark, with summit gusts of 20–30 mph, so bear that in mind if you will be out late.
Cloud and visibility
The tops are likely to drift in and out of cloud, with the best chance of a clear summit around midday. The cloud base could be as low as 600–900 m early in the morning. In cloud you'll be finding your way without landmarks, so carry navigation you trust and know how to use, with a backup such as a spare battery or a map and compass. Visibility may drop briefly in showers.
Rain and ground
Rain for much of the day, becoming heavier later. Expect 5–10 mm in total.
Warmth and kit
On the tops it will be around 4 to 8°C, feeling like 0 to 4°C in the wind. The freezing level is above the summits. Take a warm layer and a hat for the top. Pack waterproofs too, and keep a warm layer dry in your pack.
Daylight
A short day, with only about 9 hours of daylight. Sunset is around 4:20pm, so allow time to get off the hill before dark, and carry a head torch.
Forecast confidence
It's still seven days off and could change, so check again nearer the time.
Sunshine context Model-grid estimate, not summit sunshine
The surrounding model grid indicates 0 h of sunshine. This is not a forecast of time in sunshine on the summit. Use the cloud and views outlook above for the conditions on this mountain.
Morning · 08:00–12:00
MixedSummit winds around 0-10 mph. Gusts around 0-10 mph are possible on exposed ground. Summit cloud is more persistent early in this period, with better prospects later. Rain is forecast during this period.
50
Afternoon · 12:00–17:00
MixedMore rain is expected. Summit winds around 0-10 mph in the early afternoon, strengthening to 5-15 mph later. Gusts around 15-25 mph are possible on exposed ground. Summit cloud becomes more persistent later. Rain is forecast during this period.
50
Compare an early start with later conditions. The main forecast above covers the day in more detail.
Overnight · 17:00–08:00Wild campingBetaA poor night to camp on open ground: gusts of about 35 mph and around 13 mm of rain.37Poor · 600 mView detailsHide details
Night beginning Wednesday 11 November 2026
Full overnight outlook
A poor night to camp on open ground. Gusts reach about 35 mph on open ground, which makes for a noisy, testing night even in a good tent. Look for shelter from the northeast. Expect a wet night, around 13 mm of rain, mostly early on, so you'll likely pitch in the rain. A frost at every height we checked (300-600 m), down to about -1°C. A warm 3-season or 3–4 season bag rated to about -4°C comfort, and a warm mat, should do. Allow more if you sleep cold.
Warmth planning: As a broad starting point, consider a warm 3-season or 3–4 season bag with an ISO/EN comfort rating at or below about -4°C. Allow more margin if you sleep cold or expect fatigue, and use an adequate insulated mat. Dampness is possible, so keep the sleep system dry and ensure its insulation remains effective if damp.
Mixed conditions for exposed scrambling. The rock is likely to be wet and slippery through the day. Cloud on the tops may make route-finding and retreat harder. The rock around the summit is mostly basalt, a dark volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and can be very slippery when wet. It is often blocky and shattered, with loose rubble on ledges. On the usual routes up you may also cross andesite, which grips well when dry and is fair when wet, though polished holds on popular routes get slippery. These are general notes for each rock type, taken from geological maps around the summit, so the rock on your line may differ.
Rock surfaceWet rock likelyPeak gust15-25 mphRain12.8 mm
Main factorswet rock likelymuch of the route may be in cloud
Representative rock around the summit and along available routes
BasaltThrostle Garth Basalt Member
Origin
Igneous
Broad rock-response group
Volcanic rock
Mapping
BGS Geology 50K · 1:50,000
Summit area
Volcanic rock in 100% of 17 BGS samples within 350 m
Basalt is a dark volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and can be very slippery when wet. It is often blocky and shattered, with loose rubble on ledges. These are general notes for each rock type, from geological map samples at and around the summit. The rock on your line can differ, and lichen, vegetation and seepage all change how it feels underfoot.
Rock groups along the sampled routes
These are mapped rock groups, not separate weather forecasts or a ranking of route safety.
Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
volcanic rock
Geological detail and BGS records
Mapped variation
6 rock types appear in the mapped samples
Samples around the summit inform the main rock-response profile, with the summit pin shown separately where it differs. Route samples add further context, but this is not a continuous geological survey.
Summit-area sample
BasaltThrostle Garth Basalt Member622–723 m samplesSeen on Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
Basalt is a dark volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and can be very slippery when wet. It is often blocky and shattered, with loose rubble on ledges.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
AndesiteBirker Fell Andesite Formation198–515 m samplesSeen on Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
Andesite is a hard volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and is fair when wet, though polished holds on popular routes get slippery. It is generally solid, but shattered in gullies and on broken ground.
BGS record →
Route sample
DaciteScafell Dacite MemberAround 936 mSeen on Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
Rhyolite is a hard, fine-grained volcanic rock. It grips well when dry and gets slippery on smoother faces when wet. It is hard, but often cracked into sharp, blocky pieces, so some holds are loose.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
Felsic tuffCrinkle Tuff MemberAround 827 mSeen on Wainwright Scafell Slight Side Eskdale
Volcanic tuff is rock formed from compacted volcanic ash and debris. It is rough and grippy when dry and usually still grips reasonably when wet. It is mostly solid, in slabs and ledges, though weathered patches can be crumbly.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
Rhyolitic lapilli-tuffLong Top Tuff Member
Volcanic tuff is rock formed from compacted volcanic ash and debris. It is rough and grippy when dry and usually still grips reasonably when wet. It is mostly solid, in slabs and ledges, though weathered patches can be crumbly.
BGS record →
Summit-area sample
Andesitic lapilli-tuffWet Side Edge Tuff Member
Volcanic tuff is rock formed from compacted volcanic ash and debris. It is rough and grippy when dry and usually still grips reasonably when wet. It is mostly solid, in slabs and ledges, though weathered patches can be crumbly.
Recommended kit for this dayWeather-aware packing prompts, plus your core hillwalking kitView kit
For a day hillwalk, not a complete route-specific checklist. Carry navigation and backup you can use, warm and waterproof layers, suitable footwear, food and water, a headtorch, emergency shelter, first aid and a way to call for help. Snow, ice, technical terrain and overnight trips need additional equipment and skills.
Does the weather shape your plans?Optional hill-user research. One answer helps; further questions are up to you.Take part
Help the Mountain Decisions Project understand how forecasts influence hill days, including when plans stay the same. Findings will be shared publicly as summaries, not individual responses.
This is about Slight Side on Wednesday 11 November 2026. It asks about intentions, not whether you actually went out. No name or account is needed.