High Pike

The Northern Fells are all mine says Sean McMahon. That is to say, lead mine, tungsten mine, silver mine…

- Sean McMahon

The legend carved on the trig point a top High Pike reads, ’Caldbeck Fells are worth all England else’. This probably doesn't refer to the views, which are quite extensive to the north and east, but rather to wealth generated by the abundance of minerals that have been mined in the area.

This circular walk starts from the Caldew Valley and utilises the highly recommended Rake Trod as a means of ascent. It’s a simple climb to reach the top of Carrock Fell, which has much interest to those who like history as it's encircled with a ring of stones, which are the remains of an Iron Age fort. Continuing along the ridge is as easy as it gets, but beware that more often than not the ground will be wet and boggy.

A simple climb brings you to the summit of High Pike, the main attraction of this walk and second Wainwright you tick. Vistas aside, there is much interest all along the way, including stones from old and now-disused mine workings, the ruins of a cottage on the summit, and, surprisingly, a handy slate bench, to rest awhile on.