Cam Crag Ridge - and other classic Lakeland scrambles
We've just had a coupe of 'lad & dad' days with Tony, Dom, and Spencer. It's been such a pleasure to show these guys some of the wonderful scrambling on offer here in the Lake District. No, it's not all. roadside like many of the North Wales scrambles are. And it's all the better for it. A proper walk-in, often of an hour along beautiful valleys, and that's just to reach the start of a route. Mountaineering isn't supposed to be convenient, that's part of the attraction. And that's what these guys were after. The Lake District delivered in fine style, with immaculate rock, jaw-dropping scenery, good value approach walks, and sunshine. We can't promise that last feature!!
First up was Cam Crag Ridge in the secluded Langstrath. We stopped off at the swimming spot of Black Moss Pot, not for a swim, just for a look. Then moved on to the short ascent to the base of Cam Crag Ridge. We geared up with helmets and harnesses before the main event. Mostly we moved without ropes, but we did take in some harder sections, one of which required the rope. If aiming for this fine scramble, it's quite easy to keep the scrambling easy, at grade 1, just keep left. If wanting more challenge, move further right and get ready for some steep and at times very challenging terrain.
On such a clear day, views from the top were particularly wonderful. This helped take our minds off the hot descent into 'The Combe' and back to Stonethwaite. It was definitely Ice Cream time for me once back in Ambleside 🙂
Yesterday we ramped up the challenge and headed for the ultra classic 'Pinnacle Ridge' on St. Sunday Crag. This is a serious grade 3 scramble and quite a step up from Cam Crag Ridge. Starting in Patterdale, a leisurely walked warmed us up prior to the steep section from Elmhow and the final super steep section of scree leading to the base of the climb.
Sun shone over the top of Pinnacle Ridge and silhouetted the crags to create a fabulous image beckoning us onwards and begging us to climb it. We obliged, of course.
Once kitted up we moved swiftly up the route, pitching sections almost as a way of slowing us down so the environment could be fully enjoyed. Each section brings different challenges and loads of fun. The rock was super dry and grippy, the sun on us most of the time, and a cool breeze kept us from overheating. If Carlsberg did scrambles.....
The wind speed increased significantly at the top, but thankfully we found a nice sheltered and sunny spot for a lunch break during the descent.
A fantastic couple of days, thanks Tony, Dom, and Spencer. For more about the activities we offer see here
Mark
