~Raven Crag~
13th August 2010
The first walk from a weekend's camping trip in the Lakes. The weather forecast wasn't really good enough for a camping trip but how long do you wait for the skies to clear? I headed for Grange Campsite in Borrowdale, new territory for me, set up the tent then headed back out to Thirlmere for an ascent of Raven Crag....
Thirlmere Dam
Scroll down for photos and a description of the walk
Parking
It's 17:35, I parked in a lay-by next to the A591, near Legburthwaite, then crossed the road and made my way to Thirlmere Dam.
Raven Crag and Thirlmere Dam
This dam has had quite a year - water washed over the roadway last November, by January the surface was froze and, by June the level was very low and now the reservoir is filling up again.
Thirlmere
Do not adjust your set, this is a colour photograph on a non-colour day.
An Inside Job
I asked a passer-by to go down to the water level and take a photo for me.
The Climb
It's an unrelentingly steep climb up through the woods, with this one break in the foliage for a view towards Helvellyn.
Castle Crag Fort
I was suitably disappointed with what is said to be an ancient British Fort. Cutbacks, perhaps.
Skiddaw
From the backside of the Castle Crag Fort, there is a good view of Skiddaw (in cloud) with Bleaberry Fell on the left.
Raven Crag Summit
Thirlmere from Raven Crag
The Dam
Excellent view down to the dam, watch where you're walking.
Wretched Trees
The Benn
The Benn is a neighbouring bump, also aforested.
Bosdin?
And we thought some poor kids nowadays were getting odd names. Back across the dam and back towards the car.
High Rigg
One of just two remaining "Central Fells" that I have yet to explore and conquer.
Walkers: Just Me
Time taken: 1hr 57 mins over a distance of approx. 3.5 miles.
Route: Roadside parking, road over the dam, footpath up through the woods, Castle Crag Fort, Raven Crag summit and then back down the same way.
Weather and conditions: Grey, occasional spots of rain.
Greetings Count: Nil
Richard's Refreshment Review: Nothing to report after this one.
All photos copyright Richard Ratcliffe 2010 ©
Take me back to the start ....