Trail magazine rates Clougha Pike as one of the 100 best hills in the UK. On a good day it has clear views across Morecambe bay to the Lake District. We will also summit Ward’s Stone, the highest point in the Forest of Bowland with two trig points for those who collect them. The area is known for the bird that is the symbol for the Forest of Bowland AONB. That is the endangered Hen Harrier. I've been fortunate to watch one for 5-10 minutes whilst it was hunting near the path. You might be lucky to see one.
Distance: approximately 12 miles.
Grade is mildly strenuous - the ascent is fairly gradual, though, but the walk is quite long, and likely to be very muddy in places. I'd put it a 3 or less but that is just my opinion.
Please note that dogs are not allowed on this walk. This is not my decision but is part of the access rights due to the area being a grouse shooting estate. You will see plenty of grouse on the walk.
Leave the M6 at junction 34. Turn right at the lights heading towards the East, then continue to Caton. At Caton (just after the 30mph speed camera) turn right towards Quernmore. Follow this road as it bends around Caton then out into the countryside. After a short drive you will come to a junction with signs directing you towards Lancaster and other places. Turn left to take the junction that goes downhill (note that coming back it is difficult to see to your left when exiting this juntion). Follow this road past some cross roads, then a school and a Church, continuing on until you see a narrow road turning off sharply to the left. Take this and the carpark is a short way along the road on the right. If you miss the turning onto this road you will get to a crossroads next to a few buildings (the crossroads earlier have no buildings), if you reach this turn back.
Start time is 9.30am.
Start point is at Rigg Lane car park (free) near Quernmore GR is SD 526 604.
Unfortunately there is no obvious pub nearby for after the walk. We could head to Caton where there is a pub apparently, but I can't remember it (wasn't driving when I went there).
Leader: Paul B (07752 116979)
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