Tarn Hows, Black Crag & Ivy Crag: Wainwrights, Waterfalls, and Waggly Tails!
Tarn Hows, Black Crag and Ivy Crag Circular on AllTrails
Distance: 10.5km
ETA: 4-5 hours
Elevation: 522m
The Lake District is a walker's paradise, offering everything from gentle lakeside strolls to challenging mountain climbs. This was one of our first proper fell walks and it certainly made a lasting impact, we explored a fantastic circular route encompassing Tarn Hows, Black Crag, and Ivy Crag, a trail that perfectly blends stunning scenery, a touch of Wainwright bagging, and plenty of opportunities for the dogs to cool off.
This particular route offers a delightful mix of terrain. While it does involve some fairly steep ascents, particularly up to Black Crag and Ivy Crag, the challenge is well worth the reward. We adopted a slow and steady pace, taking plenty of breaks to catch our breath and, more importantly, soak in the breathtaking panoramic views. Trust us, the views from the top of Black Crag are simply magnificent!
One of the highlights of this walk is undoubtedly Tarn Hows itself. This picturesque beauty spot is a must-see, and the path meanders alongside it, offering numerous photo opportunities. We even stumbled upon some lovely little waterfalls cascading down the hillside – a truly magical sight.
For those keen on ticking off a few Wainwrights, this route is a winner. With a bit of clever planning, you can conquer both Black Fell (just off Black Crag) and Holme Fell (just off Ivy Crag), bagging two Wainwrights in one go! It adds a satisfying sense of accomplishment to an already rewarding walk.
Our Alfie was in his element too. The route offers several ideal spots for dogs to take a refreshing dip. We came across numerous little watering holes perfect for a quick paddle, which our he thoroughly enjoyed. Seeing his happy, soggy face made the hike even more enjoyable.
A few things to note about this walk:
- Parking: There's ample parking available, which is always a bonus, especially in popular areas like the Lake District.
- Toilets: Be aware that there are no toilet facilities on the route, so plan accordingly.
- Stiles & Livestock: There's one stile at the beginning of the walk and you'll likely encounter some livestock along the way, so keep dogs on leads where necessary.
- Steep Sections: As mentioned, there are some fairly steep climbs, so a moderate level of fitness is recommended. Take your time, enjoy the views, and you'll be fine.
Overall, the Tarn Hows, Black Crag, and Ivy Crag circular walk offers a fantastic day out in the Lake District. It's a perfect blend of scenic beauty, Wainwright bagging, and dog-friendly fun. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or simply looking for a beautiful walk with your furry friend, this route has something for everyone.
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