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Sunday, 10 April 2016

Sun 10 April - Cat Bells to High Spy: A "Star Wars" Ridge Walk


















Route Description
This route takes in some of the hills used as a key backdrop to the main battle scene in Star Wars: Episode VII.
From Gutherscale, we ascend up to Skelgill Bank and then head southwards to reach Cat Bells (451 m), our first summit of the day. Gaining height as we go, this broad, grassy ridge continues for about 3 more miles, going over Maiden Moor (576 m) and the highest point of our day, High Spy (653 m).
The ridge offers great view across the Derwent Fells to the west, the Skiddaw massif to the north, Derwent Water to the east and beautiful Borrowdale to the south – and who knows, if we are lucky we might even catch a glimpse of an X-wing or a TIE fighter whilst we are up there!
We continue southwards until Dale Head tarn, and then return to the start point via the miners’ track in the secluded Newlands valley, taking in a lovely waterfall as we go. After the walk we will find a spot for a drink and slice of cake (at the Mos Eisley Cantina, perhaps?!?)
May The Force Be With You! 

Car Parking: Gutherscale car park (free), below Cat Bells, grid reference NY 246 211 (Gutherscale is south of Portinscale, near Keswick) 
Start Point: At the Gutherscale car park, grid reference NY 246 211 
Meet Time: 08.45 am 
Start Time: 09.00 am 

Distance: Approx. 9.5 miles (15 km) 
Height Gain: Approx. 850 m 
Time: Approx. 6 – 7 hours 

Grade: Strenuous 
Note: This walk has been graded as strenuous as it is a relatively long walk, with a fair bit of ascent. However, the walk won’t be rushed, so those people who are used to my “moderate” walks and want to try something a little bit harder might like this. 

Leader: Wayne
Please text Wayne (07753 121 168) by 6.00 pm on Saturday if you are coming on this walk.
If the conditions are bad I reserve the right to modify the route or cancel the walk. If insufficient interest is shown in the walk it may be cancelled.

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