Eel Crags Trig Finally Topples

A friend who has slowly been working through his Wainwright list asked me if I'd like to accompany while he aimed for Grasmoor. As summer has finally arrived I couldn't really refuse :) The trig point on Eel Crag which has slowly been deteriorating has finally toppled - probably helped.

Crummock rewards the early start...

Grisedale Pike & the new lagoons

Grisedale Pike was a spur of the moment decision, I originally intended on Lingmoor from Elterwater which I hoped would be below the forecast cloud. It was a surprise to see Grisedale Pike looming over the mist boiling up from the forestry plantations above Wythop. All the other hills were well & truly obscured so the decision was made for me - it also gave me an opportunity to have a closer look at the current works around Force Crag Mine. 

Over the last year or two the mine road had been improved, there has been a period of drilling/boring, and last summer I saw people taking samples from the beck. The latest ongoing project is for the construction of a series of lagoons to capture various metals (3 tonnes a year) being washed out of the mine and improve the water quality flowing into Bassenthwaite. It will be interesting to see how well it all blends in.

Some info:-

Newcastle University - New Lagoon

The Plight of the Vendace

Slightly annoying, roadside parking it is...

Brocken Spectre's & a circuit of Rannerdale

After two walks that lacked in both interest and views it was time for something a bit special to lift my spirits. If you are ever in need of a 'hill pick me up' then the Buttermere Fells are the tonic of choice & coupled with a fine forecast these hills will lift the darkest of moods.

An empty car park - always a great way to start a walk - I didn't see anybody all day...