23rd August 2009

Walk:	Low Pike, High Pike, Dove Crag, Hart Crag, Fairfield, Great Rigg, Heron Pike, Nab Scar
Start Point:	Rydal Road, Grasmere	Grid Ref:	NY 364 062
Distance:	10 miles	Ascent:	3,600 feet
Weather:	Wet, windy and misty for most of the day
Accompanied by:	6 members of the group, led by Marie
Comments:	With a forecast of gale force winds, very heavy rain and mist over the fells, we are pleased to make a start in relatively dry conditions. However, this was not to last and before long the waterproofs are put to the test. With the wind initially behind us the rain is not too much of a problem and a wall guides us to Dove Crag. From here the climb over rocks to Hart Crag is made more difficult by the ever increasing mist and navigation from the summit is the most difficult of the day. Making the most of the wind shelters on Fairfield it isn't long before a group of Scouts arrive - they do carry such big packs these days!!! Heading south we continue on to Great Rigg with the wind now in our faces - not a pleasant experience as the rain searches out any gaps between skin and garment, trickling down the neck and, for those using trekking poles, down the sleeves. Ray eventually gives up the battle with the umbrella and becomes as wet as the rest of us! Heron Pike, having no cairn, is elusive and we find a cairn that could be Nab Scar. From here it is downhill all the way and we eventually drop out of the mist to see the very welcome sight of Rydal and the cars (with a set of dry clothes just waiting for us!)

Sunday, 23rd August 2009