Easedale, Castle How and Silver How

Last time I ventured up Easedale and Castle How I came as close as I ever have to understanding the dangers of even relatively low lying fells. Having set off up Easedale in the most picturesque snowy conditions I endured a complete white out, winds so strong they ripped my waterproofs apart and hit the potentially fatal point where I contemplated lying down in a sheltered spot to 'rest my eyes'. Fortunately I didn't, and eventually glimpsed stickle tarn through the blizzard, before descending to Langsale for a most welcome pint. The point of this introduction is to make it clear that even the gentlest of mountain walks present dangers. 

With that in mind, on a gorgeous sunny winters day, I needed to find a walk giving amazing views, no scrambles to speak of, and which would keep me pretty much below the snowline. 

Our route took us up an icy Easedale, beside the spectacular falls, to the tarn. We stopped for a quick play with the ball before heading up steeply to Castle Crag. This time the weather was perfect, with Crincle Crags and Bowfell glistening in the snow. 

We then enjoyed an excellent walk along the wide ridge to Silver show, with stunning views over a fogbound Windermere. 

The path down to Grasmere was a delight, with great views over Rydal before finally returning to the car. 

I have to say this was as far away from the horrendous walk of 25 years ago as it could be. A perfect day.