17/02/25 - Dow Crag

Walna Scar Road - only for the fearless

Every year, I like to walk at least one Wainwright. I currently sit at 87 completed. There are 214. I need to get a wriggle on.

Today's walk begins at the end of Walna Scar Road. My god. Whoever designed it clearly wasn’t thinking of a Seat Ateca. Should I ever attempt it again, I’ll be sure to take a longer run-up—and possibly say a small prayer.

As we set off, snow flurries dance in the air. A picturesque sight, but also a reminder that even the slightest dusting would have left us stranded at the top, contemplating a new life in the fells. "Take up walking to lower your stress levels," they say. Right.

For cars, Walna Scar road runs out at a rather large car park. Now Ringo Controlled and they must have put a mast in somewhere. Didn't stop at least three cars winging it. Yellow penalty notes on drivers side windows are going to ruin your afternoon. At least I know the app works.

From this point on, its a historical pack horse track that leads from Coniston to the Duddon Valley.  A gentle introduction to the days walking.

Ruby on Walna Scar Road - Dow Crag behind

We head North West to Goat Tarn. Photos taken - the Hause behind our access point to the tops.

Mrs M unconvinced there is a path

But look, she is on it and above me

Few photos from this point on. It all gets a little survivalist. On a summer's day, this would have been a near perfect introductory walk to the fells. Slightly challenging, but once the height is gained, a great ridge walk with some super views over the Coniston Massif. 

In February - and contrary to the forecasts - the wind was fierce. Dry your eyes fierce. Now you know why everyone coming in the opposite direction is so rosy cheeked fierce. On completion Mrs M asks if her face is a red as mine. Wind blasted.

The last walk photo..... I'm going for a walk and I may be some time

Even Geocaches needed to be ignored. Not that I could feel my fingers to open tupperware boxes.

But every step down is a step out of the wind. And prizes await once we toboggan back to town, hoping to Christ we don't meet anyone coming in the opposite direction.

The Black Bull, Coniston

I've got many favourite pubs, but the Black Bull has to be in my top 10. Bluebird Bitter is available in bottle conditioned format for export, but it doesn't taste the same as on cask, in its place of birth. Bluebird XB, its slightly stronger brother, is rarely seen elsewhere.

This, and a roaring fire, a fitting reward to a fine day.

The Line Up in the Black Bull. If you are on the bus, go for Old Man

Walk Details

Distance - 6.5 Miles

Dow Crag Height - 2552 Feet

Geocaches - Too Windy to Look

Walk Inspiration - Pocket Mountains - 40 Walk in the Southern Lake District