We had a return to the Wayside at Whitbeck this weekend, to do a bit more West Lakeland riding. I like the western edges of the Lakes a lot, a bit further to travel than the usual honeypot destinations but worth it for the lack of thronging masses.
Saturday was spent returning to my youth, riding the trails from the coast up to Miterdale and then making the most of the dry conditions with a traverse of Burnmoor Tarn which was just about as non bog like as I can ever remember. It was on the bridleway by the tarn that we met the only other riders (and Singletrack readers, Hi there!) that we saw all day shortly before we dropped down the Coffin Road into Eskdale.
Crossing the Esk we headed back down the valley, across Muncaster Fell and back to the luxury of the Wayside for some warmth, great food and very welcome beers.
Sunday saw us heading over to cosmopolitan Coniston, we were willing to put up with a bit of company on the fells for the pleasure of climbing Walna Scar on the way back over to the Duddon Valley. Wall to wall blue sky, the perfect temperature for expending effort without sweat and views to die for were the feature of the day. It’s a classic loop that’s well worth riding especially while the conditions are this good.
Great riding, uncrowded trails and a forecast for the coming weekend that looks promising. What are you waiting for?
Great photos Dave. I’m heading up that way (Skelwith Bridge) with the family in three weeks – can’t wait. I think I’m going to have to hang the bike on the back of the car when the’re not looking though 🙂
Stunning. Don’t think I could be more jealous..
Looks fantastic – wondered if you could post a map or gpx plesae ?
That was my pal Pete and I that you met up there – nice to meet you!
Not a bad day at all for a ride 😀
coylumbridge – here ya go 🙂
http://www.singletrackworld.com/trailguide/uk/north-west/south-west-lake-district/