What can I say about Loughrigg! A delightful short hill walk with extensive views all around. We have climbed this hill on many occasions, never tiring of the experience. Today we were accompanied by my brother, sister in law and nephew. We took our usual tried and tested route.
Park at White Moss car park (on the right heading towards Grassmere). Immediately across the main road a path descends toward the river and White Moss wood. The river is crossed by a substantial, but narrow, wooden bridge and the path meanders up through the wood up to a kissing gate. Unfortunately this part of the walk is usually far to busy with other folk to take full advantage of gate's description.
Through the gate a path leads left down to Rydal Water and one to the right to Loughrigg terrace (our route back). Straight on, however is our route contouring round the lower slopes of the fell to the large cave, the entrance recently fenced off because of the dangers of falling rocks. A path heads upwards to the left of the cave ascending the right hand side of the gully. Height is soon gained and the views over Rydal water and the valley to the Fairfield range become more and more impressive. It is better to take a right and fork in the path at one point to avoid boggy ground higher up. After the initial steepish ascent the path levels for a few hundred yards across wet ground but the way ahead is seen ascending steeply up to the summit plateau. This is soon reached and after a short stroll round the corner, the summit cairn is visible with the vista over the Langdale Pikes, Bowfell and Crinckle Crags opening up before your eyes. (Assuming they are not all in mist!).
The way down is north west down the steep main path which leads to Loughrigg Terrace. I prefer to descend this way as the view across Grasmere Lake to the village and the fells beyond, constantly holds the gaze.
Once down to the terrace turn right for a delightful walk back to the kissing gate encountered on the ascent. Take care on the terrace as there is a danger of being mown down by mountain bikers or runners running with full packs!
Autumn in White Moss Wood
Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Memories Autumnal colours looking down on White Moss Wood
Grading Excellent
Completed 12 To Go 202
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