20th April 2017 - Elterwater

Jamie B, Grant and George met on Elterwater Green.  Jamie led the ride so we set off on the tarmac and over Red Bank. At the top we took the bridleway down Loughrigg Terrace about three quarters of the way down we took a steep path on the left which led down to the bridge at the foot of Grasmere. A quick tour of Whitemoss before crossing the main road to join the track up to the coffin road. The steep climb was cleared by Jamie while Grant and George ended up walking. We then took the coffin road back towards Ambleside taking a short cut through the park to join the back road to Rydal here we took a left up the bridleway over Loughrigg and down to the bridleway around the tarn to the top of Red Bank.  Taking a left past the Yha and then down Red Bank using off road tracks where possible back to the cars. The weather was excellent the tracks were dry even across the common.

Next ride Staveley for Sadgill ride

13th April 2017 - Staveley

Three of us made it out, Jamie Mac, Andrew and CT, we thought we may have more as Andrews family came out to see us and the little 'un was on his scoot along bike, but Mrs Andrew did not have her bike so they went back for an early bath night:) Which route asked Andrew what about that ride to Ambleside...well it's a far bit from here, perhaps start with Brow foot lane, then we headed up to Borrans, then up Dubbs and onto Garburn, nice steady climb and managed to clean it, at least to the gate, well cuffed until the others arrived and said that it seemed easier! Onward over the top and start the descent, Andrew found some new lines by following CT :O), it's a bit technical and requires some balance especially with weight distribution and speed, too far forward and front wheel dives in the loose stone, but still entertaining (at least I think so;), it was getting dark so some lights were going on, we made it down and then turned right at the church for three rivers, 'steady away' climb;) then 2 river crossings and watch the descent back. All good, back at cars, Andrews Garmin suggested around 15 miles, grand!
Next ride Elterwater

Looking up Garburn

View back to Troutbeck

View north towards Yoke

Troutbeck Park

Action shot

6th April 2017 - Gilpin Bridge

A couple of us rode out and met the others near Gilpin Inn, Andrew, Jamie Mac and George met JB and CT, some folk had shiny clean bikes...we set off along sustrans bridge and the usual start up the slope track in the trees, drop down into the village and sharp right, amble along the lane, slight detour into the trees to see how much mud there was...and yes there was! Another detour to follow some tyre tracks which ended up taking us up hill and a bit of a walk (hike-a-bike;), George had a brake mishap half way up, JB assisted with new pads, all OK and the views we grand at the top, then we decided to head south and see where we got to as it was a grand evening and no one was about. We trundled along enjoying the view and headed for the descent, slight detour around the edge and we found our way down, a great end into the quarry and back to the cars. Less than 10 miles, unless you rode out;).
Next ride Staveley

Nice initial view

It was a lot steeper than it looks!

Easter cakes = reward :)

The old quarry in daylight