Howgill Fells & Westmorland Walks

The Calf

Date: 16th November 2009
Distance: 6.6 miles
Ascent: 1969 feet
Time: 3 hours 30 mins
With: Lisa
Start Grid Ref: SD698969

Walk Summary:
A visit to The Calf, the highest point in the Howgill Fells, via a steep climb alongside the spectacular waterfall of Cautley Spout.

Route Summary: Cross Keys - Cautley Holme Beck - Cautley Spout - Cautley Crags - Great Dummacks - Calders - Bram Rigg Top - The Calf - Bowderdale Head - Cautley Holme Beck - Cross Keys

Photos: Click on the photos below to enlarge.

Walk Detail: While I'd covered most of this ground 2 years before with Matt towards the end it had all been a bit rushed whereas today we were able to move at a decent pace but still enjoy the stunning views. It was also nice to show Lisa such a unique area and it was also especially nice because the wild ponies put in a few appearances for her.

The climb up Cautley Spout was easier than we both thought and it was much more agreeable climbing up than it had been going down. We had some problems crossing Red Gill Beck but eventually we got over it and up to the rim of Cautley Crags.

We had a good march along the crags and on to Great Dummacks where, unsurprisingly, there was no cairn on the top. From Great Dummacks the walk over Calders and Bram Rigg Top to The Calf was supremely easy. It was a lovely stride with the glorious views, particularly of Lakeland, increasing with every step.

By the time I reached The Calf I was in fell walking ecstasy and the view from the top was magical with a full view of Lakeland to the west.

The walk down was fairly quick though the steep pathless section to Bowderdale Head was perhaps a bit too much for Lisa's knee which began to hurt a bit. After the next section of descent it was then a fairly simple walk back along our initial outward route.

A brilliant day out.

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