A ride around the back of Skiddaw. Starting from Threlkeld in Cumbria, climbing up the track and bridleway to Skiddaw House, then over moorland to Mosedale. A section of tarmac then a combination of tracks and minor roads anti-clockwise around the extremity of the Caldbeck fells to the start of the climb up the valley where Dash beck runs down. The main climb on the way back then runs up the side of the valley past the spectacular Whitewater Dash waterfall. After the high point of the climb it's an easy ride back to Skiddaw House and Threlkeld. Good tracks, remote moorland, wet riding, great views and a nice cafe in Threlkeld to finish.

Looking over to Derwentwater and the fells beyond

Track up the side of Blease Fell

First of many streams to cross, recent rain meant there was plenty of run off

Heading up to Skiddaw House

The trail has a real sense of remoteness as it heads over the moor

From the hamlet of Mosedale, tarmac north then off road again at Calebreck

Lunchstop

Losing count of the number of fords

Quiet backroads and hamlets

Track again and huge fat sheep

The climb up to Whitewater Dash waterfall

A long climb but only steep nearer the top

The waterfall

Heading back to Skiddaw House

This 'cafe' ?

Almost back with the valley of St John's in the vale in the distance

A tiring but satisfying ride