Smardale Nature Reserve and Smardale Fell
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A lovely circular walk through Smardale Nature Reserve using a disused railway. The reserve is a haven for wildlife and flora. A narrow pathway offers great views to the impressive Smardalegill viaduct, then we follow an old packhorse trail back over the fells.
A moderate grade is given mainly due to just one short part of the route which is a little precarious and there is a fairly stiff climb to return. The path is thin just after the viaduct and traverses a steep slope, so care is needed, especially after rain or snow.
The viaduct itself is sadly closed at the moment because of safety concerns with the railings.
There are plenty of information boards along the way to fill you in about the local wildflowers, wildlife and the limekilns (which are just beyond the viaduct but can be seen from the path this route uses).
It's a good walk for dogs but they should be on leads, at least on the open farmland. Some folk allow well-behaved dogs free along the railway nature reserve where it's well enclosed and away from livestock.
Some of this walk would be accessible for people with wheelchairs and pushchairs, but going beyond the viaduct would not be possible as there are steps to climb and stiles to be crossed. However there's no reason you can't take the outward journey to the viaduct and come back the same way.
England - North England - Cumbria - Eden Valley
Features
Birds, Butterflies, Flowers, Great Views, Hills or Fells, Industrial Archaeology, Mostly Flat, Nature Trail
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