Sunday, 9 April 2017
12.55 miles/20.2 km
2,867 ft/874 m ascent
6 hours 32 minutes
Early morning start from Grasmere. Accompanied by a trio from the Isle of Man who were looking for the route to Stonethwaite – we took them as far as the bridge over Far Easedale Gill. Having set them on the right path we started our ascent of Tarn Crag (1,801ft/549m).
From Tarn Crag we climbed towards Codale Head where the Langdale Pikes became visible. First stop Sergeant Man (2,415ft/736m) and from there across to the lunar landscape of Thunacar Knott (2,372ft/723m). And then crossing Harrison Combe towards the distinctive rocky summit of Pike of Stickle (one of our favourite scrambles). Fabulous views from the top including a rock window framing Bowfell.
Heading towards Loft Crag (2,231ft/680m) with the dramatic cliff of Gimmer Crag falling away. Partly retracing our steps to climb Harrison Stickle (2,415ft/736m) and following the confusing tracks leading to Pavey Ark (2,297ft/700m) and sheltering behind a rock for lunch.
Followed tracks and sheep trails around the fell, passing below Sergeant Man and crossing the col dropping down to Easedale Tarn. Ran (nearly ran) back down to the start and a great ice cream in the sunshine.
gappet 