, at 873 m (2,863 ft), is the 13th highest
Mountain in the
Lake District , according to
Wainwright 's
List .
It is most commonly ascended by a popular walk, the Fairfield Horseshoe, which makes a circuit of the valley of
Rydale to the south. This route takes in the neighbouring
Fell s of
Hart Crag ,
Dove Crag and
Great Rigg .
An alternative route comes from Deepdale to the northeast, over
St Sunday Crag . This gives a full view of the impressive northern crags of Fairfield, which contrast starkly with the grassy south slopes seen from the Fairfield Horseshoe. Fairfield may also be cimbed from the west, via Grisedale
Tarn at the head of
Grisdedale . From this direction a link to the hills of
Helvellyn Range is possible.
The view is impressive, but the top is very flat and there are many cairns; it is easy to get lost in mist. The cautious walker should beware of the presence of precipices.
The fell lies on the Threlkeld - Kirkstone Walk, which continues over Fairfield summit to
Dove Crag and
Red Screes .
