Spring is in the air.

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We've had some great sunshine in Cumbria over the weekend and, although there was a dusting of snow on the fells on Sunday morning, there has been a definite feeling of Spring in the air. We even heard our first Skylarks of the season on Blencathra.

Saturday started bright and sunny so we headed for the fells quite early given that the forecast predicted rain for later in the day. We decided on Blencathra so parked at Threlkeld and then headed up Doddick Fell ridge. This route is always quiet and gives some great views. The sun shone all the way to the summit of  Foule Crag and Skylarks were singing away. As we sat and had a drink, however, clouds could be seen building to the south and soon the sun disappeard and the temperature dropped. We both added a layer and then head over the summit of Hallsfell to Gategill top where we had lunch before dropping via Blease Fell back to the car. By the time we reached Keswick light rain was falling so we had timed it perfectly.

Susan powering up Doddick Fell, Blencathra.


Hallsfell ridge and summit from Doddick Fell top.


The view north to Sharp Edge and Bowscale Fell.


Cloud builds as we head along the superb summit ridge of Saddleback.


Sunday was forecast to be a good day so after a wee lie in we again headed for the fells. The sun shone in a blue sky as we pulled up below Barrow and the view across to a snow dusted Skiddaw was stunning. Our chosen route was the Coledale Horseshoe taking in Grisedale Pike, Crag Hill, Sail, Scar Crags and Causey Pike.
The first climb up Grisedale Pike is always tough but we set a steady pace and passed several parties  out enjoying the superb weather. There was still some snow near the summit and the views were fantastic. On a day like this the going is always much easier and we were soon on Crag Hill eating lunch looking across the whole of Lakeland. There were quite a few people out enjoying the day but it never felt busy and we had the last top to ourselves.
A great weekend on the Lake District Fells.

Climbing Grisedale Pike.


Looking back to Skiddaw and Blencathra.


Looking to Hopegill Head from near the top of Grisedale Pike.


Heading for Crag Hill on a great day on the fells.


The view west from Crag Hill.


Not a bad lunch view.


On route to Causey Pike.


Susan on Causey Pike with stunning a Lakeland view.


Enjoying the last top of the day.


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