Ard Crags, Robinson and Hindscarth Loop

Starting near the charming village of Little Town in Cumberland, England, the Ard Crags, Robinson, and Hindscarth Loop is a captivating 15 km (9.3 miles) journey with an elevation gain of approximately 1100 meters (3609 feet). This loop trail offers a medium difficulty rating, making it suitable for hikers with a moderate level of fitness and some experience in hill walking.

Getting There

To reach the trailhead, you can drive to Little Town, where limited parking is available. For those relying on public transport, the nearest major town is Keswick. From Keswick, you can take a bus to Newlands Valley, alighting at the Little Town stop. The trailhead is a short walk from there.

Trail Overview

The loop begins with a gentle ascent from Little Town, leading you through lush green pastures and alongside babbling brooks. As you progress, the path becomes steeper, guiding you up to the first summit, Ard Crags. At around 3 km (1.9 miles) into the hike, you'll reach the summit of Ard Crags, standing at 581 meters (1906 feet). Here, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Newlands Valley and the surrounding fells.

Robinson Summit

Continuing along the ridge, the trail takes you towards Robinson, the highest peak on this loop. The ascent to Robinson is more challenging, with rocky sections and a steeper gradient. After approximately 6 km (3.7 miles) and an elevation gain of 737 meters (2418 feet), you'll reach the summit of Robinson at 737 meters (2418 feet). The views from here are spectacular, offering a 360-degree panorama of the Lake District, including Derwentwater and Buttermere.

Hindscarth Ridge

From Robinson, the trail descends slightly before climbing again towards Hindscarth. This section is less strenuous, allowing you to enjoy the rugged beauty of the landscape. At around 9 km (5.6 miles), you'll reach the summit of Hindscarth, standing at 727 meters (2385 feet). The ridge walk between Robinson and Hindscarth is particularly scenic, with sweeping views of the valleys below and the distant peaks.

Descent and Return

The descent from Hindscarth takes you down a well-defined path towards Scope End. This part of the trail is less steep but requires careful footing, especially in wet conditions. As you descend, you'll pass through heather-clad slopes and rocky outcrops, eventually re-entering the verdant pastures of the valley floor. The final stretch of the loop brings you back to Little Town, completing the 15 km (9.3 miles) journey.

Historical Significance

The Newlands Valley, through which this trail passes, is steeped in history. The valley was once a hub for mining activities, particularly for lead and copper. Remnants of old mine workings can still be seen along the trail, offering a glimpse into the area's industrial past. Additionally, the valley is dotted with ancient farmsteads and dry stone walls, reflecting the region's agricultural heritage.

Nature and Wildlife

The trail traverses diverse habitats, from open fell tops to sheltered valleys. Keep an eye out for red squirrels, which are native to the area, and a variety of bird species, including peregrine falcons and buzzards. The flora is equally diverse, with heather, bilberry, and various wildflowers adding splashes of color to the landscape.

Navigation

Given the varied terrain and potential for rapidly changing weather conditions, it's advisable to use a reliable navigation tool like HiiKER to ensure you stay on track. The app provides detailed maps and real-time updates, which can be invaluable in this remote and rugged environment.

This loop trail offers a rewarding mix of challenging ascents, breathtaking views, and rich historical context, making it a must-do for any avid hiker exploring the Lake District.