A Family Hike up Gowbarrow and Aira Force

With suitably attired children (walking boots, waterproofs and lots of layers), a mum who knows the route and an aunt to drive us we headed up to Aira Force at the edge of Ullswater. We were carrying a picnic and bribes snacks in our rucksacks. My 3 year old chose to do the full route which is approximately 3.5 miles and about the limit he can do at the moment. For a detailed route check here. 

The walk is considered moderate hence the need for proper footwear. At times the path was extremely boggy with wet rocks to scramble over and small streams to cross. My 7 year old found these easy to cope with but the 3 year old struggled at some points and was a lot slower than her. They both needed an emergency snack about half way up the fell. We were taking the slightly more circuitous but child friendly route and its quicker to take a more direct route.

Both children were very proud to get to the top but also tired and not very keen on the wind. A nibble of special chocolate from Granny soon restored their get up and go. We had to find a sheltered spot below the summit to eat some lunch and then descended to the Aira Beck. My son found the steps on the path quite large and slid down some as stepping was not an option.

The waterfalls of Aira Force are amazing for both adults and children. My daughter had to make a speedy dash down to the toilets back in the car park with Granddad and missed them! The rest of us made the most of a steady meander down over various bridges playing Pooh sticks at every opportunity.

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There were plenty of families of all ages visiting the National Trust land. Most stayed around the waterfalls area and weren't heading out on the fell. The majority of fell walkers were adults without any children. I'm glad to be introducing my children to the joys of hiking. Let's hope they carry on enjoying it for many years to come!

Part of the Tots100 Outdoor Adventures Blog Hop!