The night was windy and when I looked out of the tent first thing couldn't see anything because of cloud. I didn't have a long day ahead so took my time getting ready. The weather forecast was rather vague with some rain forecast but no time given. I set off at 8:40am and started my descent to Stickle Tarn which soon appeared through the mist. By the time I got there I was below the cloud base and could see my surroundings. The path was well used and before long was at the road, the summit of Kiln Bank Cross. I'd seen Stainton Ground Quarries from my last camp and decided to investigate before continuing too far.

The Quarry at Stainton Ground.

The mine building and heading on Caw.

There was a sign saying 'dangerous quarries, keep away etc' which is rather daft because that an advertisement to visit the site by the average curious person. All the workings were long since abandoned but interesting to look at. One large heading was blocked by an iron grill but it didn't look like much effort would be needed to get in. I rejoined Park Head Road, which is a rough track and followed it to Long Mire. Ahead was Caw with its summit in cloud. That was my objective but I didn't want to continue along the track and lose altitude. I took a diagonal line up the west side of the mountain until I came to the old access road to the disused quarry shown on the map. It was wonderfully made and an easy way up the mountain. At the quarry some of the buildings were still up to roof level. The mine heading was fully accessible and open to anyone wanting to venture inside.

I followed a stream up the mountain and kept to it as its highest point would be where I would collect water for my high camp, as I'd have to carry it from there. When the stream was just a trickle I collected a bag of water and continued up. I was surprised to see how soon I could see the summit trig point and reached a nice grassy area to pitch my tent. I had to wander around for a while to find the best shelter from the wind. After the tent was up the rain started and for most of the afternoon I was in cloud again.

The summit of Caw.
Trig point and wrong sky (on purpose)