Tropical October afternoon on the Whinfell Ridge

[Broggy1]

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Working and fishing at the weekend and had originally hoped to take Friday afternoon off but a look at the forecast put me off that idea.

A quick rethink and Wednesday looked positively belting so it was a 1pm finish and a quick drive up the M6 to do the terrific Whinfell Ridge. Starting at the M6 side and walking over the high ground to the A6 before back to the M6 via beautiful Borrowdale.

This is one of the best routes around anywhere and I'm always amazed it isn't more popular.

Awesome weather for the time of year with barmy temperatures.

Steep ascent route directly up Grayrigg Pike

Cairn on Grayrigg Pike gives a good view of the M6

Grayrigg Forest - the Marilyn of the ridge - with the rest of the ridge ahead

Whinfell Beacon looking back to the Howgills

On route to Castle Fell

Castle Fell summit looking to Mabbin Crag

Getting on to Mabbin Crag is probably the only slightly awkward moment on the ridge. The slight path heads into forestry which I know from past experience is quickly blocked. It is better to descend to the right and head up via a gap in the trees - pathless and slightly boggy but quickly over.

Mabbin Crag summit

Ahead to Ashstead Fell

Cairn on Ashstead Fell

Descending to Huck's Bridge - this route can be done in reverse from here

Borrowdale

Borrowdale

Looking up at Whinfell and Castle Fell

Nearly back at the start and looking at my route up Grayrigg Pike.

A fantastic afternoon.