Date: Friday 30th December 2022
Company: Myself and Ann-Marie
Distance: 8.5km, Ascent: 325m
Time: 2Hrs 5Mins
Another very wet and windy day in the Lakes warranting picking-off another low Wainwright. We drove from our base in the West Lakes to the South Lakes for an ascent of Black Fell.
We parked in the National Trust Glen Mary car park.
Route:
National Trust Glen Mary car park:
There are two tracks from the car park leading to Tarn Hows. We fortunately took the track which passed several waterfalls which were very much in spate.
Tarn Hows fall:
Tarn Hows fall:
Ascent towards the Tarns:
It didn't take long to reach the tarn. Despite the poor weather, I was surprised to see lots of people walking round the tarn. Apparently, this is one of the most popular parts of the Lake District!
Tarn Hows:
On leaving the Tarn Hows track to make our way towards Black Fell, we passed a number of cattle on the track. I am usually nervous of cattle, having been attacked previously by one while walking with my dog, but I assumed these cattle would be used to walkers. The cattle were not in the least bit interested on passing them by.
Cattle on track:
Beyond the cattle we joined a wide track which I believe is part of the Cumbria Way. We followed this track uphill for a few hundred metres as far as reaching a track signposted, Iron Keld.
Cumbria Way track:
Track to Iron Keld:
We then followed the track leading to Iron Keld, which was more stream than track given the torrential rain. We then passed through a gate and followed a path leading towards the summit.
At the summit of Black Fell:
From the summit we returned to the car via the same route.
Tarn Hows from Cumbria Way track:
We again passed the cattle on our return and they again paid no interest even when getting their photo taken.
Cow:
On again reaching Tarn Hows, the rain stopped and there was a brief spell of blue sky. It didn't last.
Tarn Hows:
We again visited each of the waterfalls in descent to take more photographs.
Tarn Hows fall:
Myself at one of the Tarn Hows falls:
It was good to reach the car and take off our wet waterproofs and boots. The highlight of the walk was definitely the falls.