Derwent Headwaters from Bull Stones
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After a wettish April , which hardly gave the most scenic walking opportunities , today was not an opportunity to be missed . So a high level trip to the Barrow Stones felt right , although it was pretty likely that the path to Swains Head might be a little sticky . In fact , it was quite reasonable .It clouded over with the odd shower later , and the wind kept the edge all day , but no complaints . The sun came out to accompany the descent down Upper Small Clough and my feet were still dry after fording the Derwent . Perfection .
While there are no difficulties with Upper Small Clough , there is no path , and the sides are steepish . So perhaps best avoided if in a hurry in the dark .Coldwell Clough Head has a deep network of groughs to consider . When heading for the Hoar Stone from the Horse Stone there is , in theory , a straightforward path between them , and the Stainery Clough system . In practice , this can lead to embarrassing and worse mistakes in mist and rain . So I just head slightly northwest (ish) , keeping between two north flowing channels , until I hit the deep grough , turn right , and follow it up until I come to an easy crossing point .
While there are no difficulties with Upper Small Clough , there is no path , and the sides are steepish . So perhaps best avoided if in a hurry in the dark .Coldwell Clough Head has a deep network of groughs to consider . When heading for the Hoar Stone from the Horse Stone there is , in theory , a straightforward path between them , and the Stainery Clough system . In practice , this can lead to embarrassing and worse mistakes in mist and rain . So I just head slightly northwest (ish) , keeping between two north flowing channels , until I hit the deep grough , turn right , and follow it up until I come to an easy crossing point .