Stony Cove Pike is a vastly underrated fell on the eastward side of Kirkstone Pass and commonly referred to under its less-exciting name, Caudale Moor. But don’t be fooled by the flat top: it has far more going for it than is immediately apparent. No fewer than six ridges radiate from the top: one to the east, two to the north and three to the south. There are also five distinct valley approaches intermingling the ridges. And it is the southernmost of these that guides our ascent here.
Ridges have airy views but, in hot weather, the cooling presence of water is a major impetus to cling to the valleys. This ascent allows you to drink and paddle to within a few minutes of the summit. The constant presence of water also increases the likelihood of wildlife. This ascent will almost certainly afford you a close encounter with red deer and, in high summer, the upper valley is fat with dragonflies.
Last January I walked up the Troutbeck valley, a hidden gem, all the way up to Threshthwaite Mouth, then back over Thornthwaite Crag and down the Roman Road as you describe. The side valley that you followed up onto Stoney Cove Pike looks very intriguing, definitely something for the future.
