Wainwright remarked that the western slopes of Bowscale Fell are drained by the Caldew which ultimately flows to the east, while the eastern slopes feed the Glenderamackin which soon turns west for Keswick and the River Derwent. Being on the Derwent - Eden watershed, Bowscale Fell has further topographical significance by providing the link between the Northern and Eastern Fells. The eastern ridge continues almost imperceptibly beneath Raven Crag, crossing the road before rising again to form Little Eycott and Eycott Hills. From here the watershed runs south across Great Mell Fell and ultimately climbs onto Great Dodd in the Helvellyn range. Summit The summit of the fell bears a rash of stones although all else is grass. There is a windshelter at the highest point and a cairn a little to the north, marking the direction of Bowscale Tarn. The view of Blencathra and Sharp Edge is excellent, together with a surprising vista of the North Western Fells through the Glenderaterra gap. Ascents A number of alternatives are available when starting from Mungrisdale. The easiest follows a gently rising track to the depression at the head of Bannerdale, while a variation is to turn off and climb steeply up the terminal slope of The Tongue. Bullfell Beck can also be followed to give the most direct ascent to the summit, but the best route is perhaps to follow the east ridge over its undulating tops. From Bowscale, a little along the road to the north, the Victorian pony route to Bowscale Tarn can still be followed, continuing up a grassy rake that bisects Tarn Crag. If a much longer walk is required, the ridge between Bowscale Fell and Bannerdale Crags can be reached from the Caldew Valley to the west. This makes Mosedale, or even Skiddaw House and points west into possible starting points. Ecology Bowscale Fell is included in the Skiddaw Group Site of Special Scientific Interest. Unusual features include Young Wood which has been claimed to be the highest wood in England. References Fells of the Lake District Nuttalls Hewitts of England Mungrisdale