An Early Autumn walk in Epping Forest

Twelve members met at Loughton Station on Saturday 5th October for a circular walk in Epping Forest.  We joined the forest from The Stubbles, wending our way out to Connaught Waters. Near to Connaught Waters we encountered quite a few runners on some of the paths who were apparently either doing a 25K or 50k route.  Glad to be walking instead of running, most of us walked around the lake, a couple of members opting to do the short side.  After a quick snack break, we cut through the forest to join the Green Ride, taking this path all the way through onto the ‘Ups and Downs’, although a couple of members did the ‘level’ road-route from near the biker’s hut to avoid the hills and the cardio workout.   We all met together for lunch at the cycling hut, after which we visited the Visitors Centre before carrying on via the Mount Pleasant Ride and down the Big Hill/Green Ride to Earls Path Pond and on to Strawberry Hill Pond. On this pond - which locals call Stubbles Pond - there were lots of Mandarin ducks, which was nice to see.  A final push through to and across The Stubbles took the group back to Loughton Station.  By my step counter the route was 6.5 miles; the weather was lovely, and it was a joy to be walking and enjoying good company and the forest.

Sue S.  5th October 2024.    Photos: Trevor