Black Crag from Tarn Hows

1 January 2009

A frosty scene at Tarn Hows, with Black Crag behind

There is a heavy frost on the trees, with the temperature several degrees below freezing

But suitably dressed it is a grand day to be out, as George will atest

The frozen tarn

Frost falls from the trees and coats the edge of the tarn with ice crystals

Leaving the main, engineered, path around Tarn Hows, we make our way towards the byway

Looking towards Wetherlam

From the byway, we make our way onto the bridleway through what remains of the Iron Keld forest. In places the path was very icy, but these patches were avoidable with care - George didn't bother.

Heading towards the summit

Continuing to ascend, a slightly misty look across Holme Fell to the Coniston Fells, with the Old Man left, and Wetherlam appearing higher on the right.

Across Little Langdale, with Lingmoor Fell almost centre, and the Langdale Pikes beyond it on the right, with the Scafells and the other Eskdale fells lost in cloud.

Looking north from the summit of Black Crag. We popped over the ladder stile (which is in need of some repair work) to inspect the view from further north, but I can't say that it was dramatically different.

Part of Windermere from the summit of Black Crag

360° degree panorama from Black Crag - click image for larger version

We returned to the bridleway and descended towards High Arnside. The hoar frost on the stone wall and barbed wire fence was beautiful. Pike O'Blisco is the high point towards the left.

Descending the farm road from High Arnside

Holme Fell as we near the main road

We then took to the footpaths either side of the main road, returning through the woods. Another look at Holme Fell across Yew Tree Tarn.

Zoom in for more detail, or click to view larger map in new window

A delightful outing on a beautiful day. Total distance 9.2 km and 442 metres of ascent in 2 hours 44 mins.