Fat Bike's outing to a rather damp Kielder

Its been a few years since we have been to Kielder. We used to go every year for a short break and get some trails ridden. You cannot go in the summer months unless you want to get bitten alive by the killer midge. We set off just after 7am as the forecast was dry until 1pm but the further North we travelled the rain was getting heavier. By the time we reached the dam end the waves were lashing over the wall and onto the road, not a good sign! We parked up at the top end of res near the Castle. First route was the Red Lonesome Pine trail. We have done this several times before and knew what to expect. The singletrack is still very rough going and the forset fire road climbs still as hard as ever. By the time we got to the top of the board walk you could hardly stand up for the wind but the rain eased for a while for the downhill. Back to the village to get some bacon to make up some butties. After a refuel it was onto the Blue Osprey Trail, we have done this one a couple of times. Its a hard climb on the forest drive to get onto the first singletrack which is fast flowing on the first half. The forest drive then the fire road climbs before you get onto the next singletrack are very long and boring but good training. In the eyes the blue is harder than the red, its longer and more feet to climb. The last section of singletrack is very good before to come out onto the Lakeside way trail back to the village. Time to call it a day, got changed into dry clothes and get the chicken soup on the boil. On the way back we called in past Leaplesh for a swim and sauna to warm / relax our cold and aching bones. By the time we got back in it was dark again. Great day out and some tough training miles in. Below are some photos from the days action  

Now then, which way to go?

XX1 already for blast off

The start of the Lonesome Pine trail from the Lakeside Way

Poor light conditions in the woods

First of many fallen trees blocking the trails

Climbing in the rain, it should be snow at this time of year

Finally onto the boardwalk, rather slippery today!

At the very top, very windy & cold, didnt stop long to check out the views

Down we go, very slowly as well, in the dry we fly down here

Bacon buttie time

Then onto the Osprey Blue trail

Front tyre wiped out on the soft verge, 8m front end wipeout into the ditch!

back on and away again

Chicken soup time

Not many people on the water today