Judging by the height of the bracken ferns and the general disappearance of the path, I'd say that not many people are climbing at Hare Crag during the summer months!
After some fierce bushwhacking (as well as passing several grassy areas laden with Orchids), we made to the base of the crag. At one point it looked like we might not make it!
Once on the rock, we enjoyed what we came for - solid, sun kissed granite climbs.
My friend from University days, John, also joined us for the day which was a brilliant way to catch up and get a bit of extra local knowledge,
We climbed several pitches together on amazing rock. The friction was incredible and the long slabs reminded us of being in California. Protection however was a bit sparse, which help the leader to concentrate.
After John had left, we did one more route, before calling it a day. The heat was also feeling a little bit Californian and we needed to cool down as well as save some energy for tomorrow.
After a slightly easier jungle bash down to the van, we drove a short distance to where John had tipped us off about a good swimming spot.
The shady little gorge was one of the best places we've ever swum! It was so deep, I couldn't dive to the bottom. There were plenty of fish to see as well as beautiful shafts of sunlight that went to the bottom of the turquoise waters. What a bit of local knowledge and what a way to cool off!
Hare Crag Climbs:
- Fireball XL5, VS (4c)**
- Slab Route, Severe*
- Left Hand Route, VS (4b)* - Bold!
- Upper Slab Route 1, VS (4b)* - Bold!
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