Foxes Tarn is well known to fell-walkers due to its location on one of the standard routes between Scafell Pike and Scafell, the two highest mountains in England. The direct ridge route crosses Broad Stand, which can only be negotiated safely by rock-climbers. Two main alternatives exist for walkers, one being via Lord's Rake, and the other involving a descent to Foxes Tarn before a re-ascent. The tarn is at a significantly lower elevation than Mickledore, the col between the mountains, so while the Foxes Tarn route is easier, it also requires more re-ascent.