Wednesday, September 7, 2011

Strange long haired chickens at Stonethwaite Farm

Arriving in Borrowdale

The view down to Borrowdale

The descent to Borrowdale

The saddle of the mountain

As we crossed the saddle of the mountain we made our way along paths that were running streams and boggy ground. The wind was strong and the conditions bleak..

Views back to the Irish Sea

When we got to the top of Loft Beck we were rewarded with fabulous views back over where we had walked to the Irish Sea.

Black Sail Youth Hostel

We walked up the valley at the headwaters of Ennerdale Water and had our packed lunch at the Black Sail Youth Hostel. It was a welcome respite in warm dry surroundings as the weather closed in. After luck we ascended Loft Beck and climbed out of the valley.

Local sheep grazing

Heather and bracken

Ennerdale Water

The hills beside the lake were beautiful. Foggy at the top and covered in pink heather. Sheep were dotted about even at the highest point of the hills.

Day 3 Ennerdale Water to Stonethwaite, 8.5 hours, 26.5km

Andy and Les pacing it out leading the way to Ennerdale Water. We took the northern route along the lakes edge as the southern route is crossed by deep streams co ding off the fells. We walked the length of the lake then followed a stream up the valley. Spectacular hills all around. Occasional showers only.