NEARING THE FINISH-DAY 13

DAY 13 - STONETHWAITE TO ENNERDALE BRIDGE

Another rainy morning to begin our hike!  Not surprised to read that the Lake District is the rainiest spot in an already very rainy England.  So, full rain gear again to start the day and off for our final climb out of the Lake District.  The first climb was up to Honister Mine, one of the last working Slate mines in England.  From there, we hiked up the old mining tramway and eventually picked up a trail to get us up and over the mountain.  The views back to the Lake District were stunning, despite the rain, as we said good-bye to the Lake District and headed down the other side of the mountain towards Ennerdale Bridge.  Previous reports from other hikers hiking in the opposite direction, warned of many paths underwater, but today along our route we were pleasantly surprised.  Although wet, most trails were easily passable so we were able to keep our feet relatively dry today.  We continued through a large forested area, then along the Ennerdale Water (lake), up and over the so called, “Robin Hood’s Chair” and finally into the tiny hamlet of Ennerdale Bridge and our destination for today, The Shepherds Arms.  Stats today; 15 miles, 2100 feet ascent, no slips or falls into the stream.  One day left to the Irish Sea!!!


 

The girls posing for the same picture they took here 10 years ago.



Walking up past the Slate Mine






 


Don standing by the roots of a fallen tree due to the soggy ground


Forested track on the way to Ennerdale Bridge





Good-by to the beautiful Lake District








Racing to the pub at the end of the day!

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