Skiddaw Round

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As we've both finally shaken off colds we decided on a slightly harder walk today. The fells were covered in low cloud as they came into view so we decided on a straightforward round on Skiddaw. Parking on the A591 we set off steeply up Ullock Pike at a steady pace. The views north into Dumfries and Galloway were fantastic but ahead the cloud was down and we were soon walking in it along Longside Edge. Below Carl Side we started to encounter snow and for the final steep climb onto Skiddaw we put Microspikes on for a better grip. The summit was cold and windy so we didn't linger and headed down to Broad End were we stopped for a 'piece' and a hot drink.
As we dropped down into Barkbethdale we again got some great views north into the Border Hills some of which still hold snow. From the dale floor we cut across country back to the car.

Climbing up Ullock Pike.


The final steep snow covered pull onto Skiddaw.


Not a great day for summit views.


Heading back to the car with clear views north into Scotland.

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