Start point: Birks Bridge, Duddon Valley (SD 235 992)
Harter Fell from Birks Bridge
Distance: 4.9 miles Total Ascent: 477 metres Time Taken: 2 hours Start Time: 09:30
Clear Temperature 3 ℃ Felt like 0 ℃ Wind Speed 8.6 mi/h Wind Direction NNW
It was the calm before the storm weather-wise today with it being cold, crisp and settled for one day only. I managed to get out for a walk to Harter Fell in the Duddon Valley, I know this offers some of the finest views of the Scafells and today did not disappoint. I felt sure I would be alone today in this remote fell at the head of a hidden valley – it didn’t quite turn out that way in the end but the day was enjoyable nevertheless.
On the top the conditions were baltic with a cold northerly wind blowing which meant we didn’t hang around for too long but I did manage to shelter from the wind and enjoy lunch looking across to the Scafells. Today I was with both furry companions as Dougal had an outing alongside Fletcher.
The south-west descent from Harter Fell. This was the steep way and I followed the wall - my recommendation for anyone thinking of it is...don't bother! It is too steep and rough to be enjoyable.
A room with a view - Grey Friar from Birks.
Autumn turning to winter.
Hardknott Forest is being returned to native woodland.
This is the steep way up!
Fletcher heading for the summit.
Cockley Beck and Wrynose Bottom from Maiden Castle.
I was thinking on the way up, you hardly see a soul up here. In fact I was thinking I don't think I have ever seen anyone up here apart from Chris Jesty who I bumped into one time. That thought was shattered when we reached the top - there was easy a dozen people up there, not sure where they all came from but I guess the day was too good to miss, like this fantastic view of the Scafells from the top.
A panoramic view - Scafell, Scafell Pike, Esk Pike and Bowfell.
The summit of Harter Fell.
Looking across to the rocks that are the true summit of Harter Fell.
The daring duo back together - Dougal and Fletcher. I think this is about the limit for Dougal now as he was flagging a bit towards the end.
Looking to the west coast from the summit along the Eskdale valley, Devoke Water visible.
Sun over the Duddon Estuary.
Looking across Eskdale with Eel Tarn and Burnmoor Tarn visible.
The forest road on the return to Birks. This soon changed into a boggy mess of a path.
Little Stand and the River Duddon .
The River Duddon below Birks Bridge, the perfect place for Dougal and Fletcher to have a dip at the end of the walk.
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