Calf Crag – Lake District Walks
November 19, 2023
A walk up to Calf Crag gave us the perfect opportunity to walk up the Far Easdale valley. This is a valley we had admired from both sides. From our walk up to Gibson Knott and Helm Crag, and then on the other side the view from our walk to Tarn Crag.
On both occasions we looked down at the river running along the valley bottom and thought a walk along its course would surely be a lovely thing. The fact that Wainwright describes it as having “impressive rock scenery” encouraged us all the more. Love a rock. The craggier the better.
Calf Crag via Far Easedale
We love walking up a valley. We get to walk by water and all along the way there are views of the mountains ahead. Walking to Calf Crag along the valley bottom did not disappoint. From the moment we entered the valley we were accompanied by the Far Easedale gill, which further up delighted us as it cascaded over rocks and formed some beautiful waterfalls. The more we climbed, the snowier our path became. I don’t think it’s possible to take bad photos when there’s snow.
An easy path to follow, but described by Wainwright as “wet underfoot in many places. Always“. I think for us this was easier as the ground was frozen. Although where icy, it was a little precarious. We survived. Take a stroll with us to Calf Crag:
The view from Calf Crag
Don't miss
- Stythwaite steps – a lovely way to cross the gill. There is also a bridge for those not sure-of-foot.
- Waterfall spotting the whole way up.
- Rock scenery a-plenty
- The stunning ridge walk over Gibson Knott and down via Helm Crag.
The way home..
Always in love of making our hikes a circular, we opted to continue along the ridge to Grasmere. Once we reached Gibson Knott we were on familiar ground as we headed to Helm Crag. I once again did not attempt to climb its highest rock (see the Helm Crag post for a full explanation).
A delightful way to end our walk; a sunset shot from the ridge. Not recommended for anyone who is slow on the down…fading light being the enemy.
Very nice!