Emma | Stepping Outside

Gavel Fell from Loweswater

Emma — Tue, 07 Apr 2020 11:43:14 +0000

In a quiet corner of the Western Lake District, this circular route climbs one of the lesser known Loweswater fells. Starting just outside of Loweswater Village, the route runs alongside a stream and through High Nook Farm before climbing across open moorland to reach the summit.

Start and End Location: Maggie’s Bridge National Trust car park
Start Postcode: CA13 0RU, approx. only. When approaching Loweswater village from the south, take the left hand turning approximately 200 metres after the village hall. Maggie’s Bridge car park is at the end of the lane.
Distance: 7.2km
Time: 2.5-3 hours
Facilities: The Kirkstile Inn is a short stroll from the car park.
GPX Download: Link below map
Grade: Easy Mountain Walk with a few faint paths so good navigation skills are needed.

Download file: Gavel%20Fell%20from%20Loweswater.gpx

From Maggie’s Bridge car park, take the left hand path, signposted for High Nook Farm.

The gravel road runs through farming fields and alongside Highnook Beck to reach High Nook Farm.

Continue straight ahead between the farm buildings and bear right to go through the gate. Follow the wide, rocky path uphill and go through the next wooden gate.

Take the left hand fork to climb the grassy path uphill, with great views back across the fells.

Turn right to follow the very faint path towards Black Crag.

The path, which becomes increasingly more well-defined, climbs across the moorland with brilliant views of Grasmoor behind.

The path eventually reaches a large cairn and then begins a short descent before climbing again across the heather to reach a fence line.

Go over the fence and turn left to the summit of Gavel Fell, which is marked with craggy rocks.

Retrace your steps for a few metres and, keeping the fence on the right, follow the wide path to descend across the (often boggy) moorland. There are great views down to Ennerdale and out to the coast.

After approximately 700m, take the narrow, right hand grassy path. Keeping Highnook Beck gully on the right, follow the path as it zig-zags downhill towards the sheepfold and small tarn.

If you want to extend the route and bag another summit, ignore the right hand turning and continue straight ahead to climb to Blake Fell summit. Retrace your steps downhill to the junction and turn left.

At the bottom of the valley, use the stepping stones to cross the river and, keeping the river on the left, continue straight ahead to join a wide farm track and on to a wooden gate.

Go through the gate and retrace your steps through High Nook Farm and back to the car park.

The post Gavel Fell from Loweswater first appeared on Stepping Outside.

Deepdale Horseshoe – St. Sunday Crag and Fairfield from Patterdale

Emma — Tue, 04 Feb 2020 17:41:49 +0000

Starting just south of Ullswater, the route follows a quieter climb to Fairfield. The wonderful views across Helvellyn and Grisedale Tarn as well as the dramatic, exposed path to Fairfield summit makes this walk one of the best ridge walks in the Lake District.

Start and End Location: Patterdale. There is a pay and display car park on the left hand side of the A592 when driving from Glenridding.
Start Postcode: CA11 ONN approx.
Distance: 15km
Time: 5-6 hours
Facilities: Toilets at the start of the route, approximately 50 metres from the car park. Small shop and pubs in Patterdale.
GPX Download: Link below map
Grade: Hard Mountain Walk, with exposed paths and challenging navigation in poor weather.

© OpenStreetMap contributors

Download file: Deepdale%20Horseshoe.gpx

From the car park, turn left and follow the road into Patterdale. After passing the White Lion pub, cross the road and take the right hand track (the toilet block is on the left). The track bears right and then turns left onto a narrow public footpath.

Keep left and then bear left through the gate.

The path steadily climbs alongside a dry stone wall. Ignore the right hand gate and continue uphill, heading towards Oxford Crag.

After passing below the crag, continue straight on to reach a faint grassy junction where the path levels out. Take the right fork.

The grassy path gradually bears right around the top of Trough Head before dropping down to a ditch.

Take the steep right hand path to climb towards Birks. The path soon meets a dry stone wall. Turn left, keeping the wall on your right.

The grassy path bears left and reaches a junction, marked with a low cairn. Turn left and follow the footpath to the summit of Birks, marked with a low pile of rocks.

Continue straight on, heading to St. Sunday Crag. The path, grassy and faint in some places, eventually reaches a junction.

Go straight ahead, following the rocky path upwards, with wonderful views back across Ullswater.

The path levels out and reaches a large cairn, marking the summit of St. Sunday Crag, with great views of Grisedale Tarn and the Deepdale Hause ahead.

The well defined rocky path descends gradually before steeply climbing towards Cofa Pike; there are sections of very exposed, narrow paths and loose scree. And wonderful views back across St. Sunday Crag.

The path eventually levels out and reaches Fairfield. Turn left and after passing the summit (which is marked with a cairn and a shelter), take the left hand footpath heading east towards Hart Crag.

Turn left just below Hart Crag summit and follow the narrow rocky footpath along Hartsop above How. The path, although faint in a few grassy sections, is generally easy to follow.

The route eventually reaches a dry stone wall and a wooden ladder stile.

Go over the stile and continue straight ahead through the woods and across the field to reach Deepdale Bridge.

Follow the road for a few metres and then take the left hand track. Turn right at the junction and continue downhill to meet the road.

A narrow pavement runs alongside most of the A592 to return to Patterdale and the car park.

The post Deepdale Horseshoe – St. Sunday Crag and Fairfield from Patterdale first appeared on Stepping Outside.

Thirlmere and Harrop Tarn

Emma — Sat, 10 Aug 2019 15:33:08 +0000

Rather than the standard Thirlmere Reservoir circuit, this walk follows the quieter west shores of Thirlmere and then climbs to the secluded Harrop Tarn. The path down from the tarn offers wonderful views of the reservoir and the Helvellyn range.

Start and End Location: Armboth Car Park on the west shore of Thirlmere
Start Postcode: CA12 4TW
Distance: 9.2km
Time: 2.5 hours
Facilities: Public toilets in Armboth Car Park and Dobgill Car Park. Both toilets are currently closed for a refurb (August 2019)
GPX Download: Link below map
Grade: Medium lake walk with a few uneven paths.

Download file: Thirlmere%20and%20Harrop%20Tarn.gpx

Take the footpath at the south edge of the car park, signposted for ‘Thirlmere loop Lakeshore path’.

With the reservoir to the left, the path runs through woods and alongside picturesque stone beaches.

At the junction, turn left, following the sign for Dobgill.

Continue through the trees, with great views of the northern tip of Thirlmere and Deergarth How Island.

The path narrows and keeps following the treeline. After a short climb, the path reaches a wooden gate to the road. Turn left and immediately go through the second wooden gate. The steps climb to a bench and a small viewing point.

Retrace your steps to the road and turn left, following the road only for a metre or two.

Turn left through the wooden gate, following the direction of the signposts.

The very uneven and often overgrown footpath continues for approximately 1.3km before turning right to Dobgill car park.

Go through the large wooden deer gate on the left side of the car park.

The path climbs towards a dry stone wall.

Continue straight ahead, zig-zagging up the hillside, with the waterfalls on the left.

The path levels out and the trees clear just as Harrop Tarn comes into view.

Turn right and follow the wide forestry track.

At the junction, bear right, staying on the wide track.

Continue straight ahead, following the direction of the yellow arrow signposts.

Go through the wooden gate. The path gently weaves down the hillside, with great views of Thirlmere.

Continue through the next gate and go straight ahead, following the track as it bears right.

The track eventually reaches the road.

Turn left. The quiet road leads back to the car park.

The post Thirlmere and Harrop Tarn first appeared on Stepping Outside.

The Ullswater Way

Emma — Mon, 08 Jul 2019 17:43:32 +0000

The Ullswater Way is a recently opened route which loops around Ullswater lake. The 20 mile hike is well marked and follows lakeside paths, woodland trails and ridgeline footpaths, all with spectacular views across the lake and surrounding fells.

Start and End Location: Pooley Bridge Car Park
Start Postcode: CA10 2NE
Distance: 33 km
Time: 7-10 hours
Facilities: Public toilets in Pooley Bridge, Aira Force and Glenridding
Map: The majority of the route is well signposted but a map is always useful (OS OL5 and the Ullswater Way site provides a more basic map).

Grade: Easy, with well marked paths for the majority of the route.

Starting Point and Which Direction?

The Ullswater Way can be started at any point and walked in either direction. However, I think the best views are gained from walking anticlockwise, starting at Pooley Bridge.

Pooley Bridge to Aira Force

The first section of the walk begins on the north-east side of Pooley Bridge.

The easy to follow ‘Ullswater Way' signs lead you through woodland, past Waterfoot park and across farming fields.

The route follows the road for a short section before turning left through a wooden gate and crossing fields once again.

After a short ascent, the path reaches Swinburn's Park. The climb through the woods offers wonderful views across Ullswater.

At the edge of the wood, the route offers two options; a climb to Gowbarrow Fell or a high level path traversing the hillside. As I have already bagged Gowbarrow Fell, I followed the path looping around the hillside, with brilliant views of the lake and the Helvellyn range.

The path approaches Aira Force and this is the only section where the route isn’t clearly signposted; at the junction, turn right to visit Aira Force waterfall or turn left to go straight to the National Trust car park and toilets.

Aire Force to Glenridding and Patterdale

From Aira Force National Trust car park, the path turns right and follows the road before bearing right through a wooden gate.

Continue along the gravel path through the park.

After crossing the road, the path runs alongside the lake before joining the pavement to Glenridding and then on to Patterdale.

Patterdale to Howtown

After leaving Patterdale, the road bends around to the right. There's a signpost for the Ullswater Way, pointing left.

Follow the path between the buildings to reach a wide farm track.

The route continues through a farm and then bears left. The well defined stone path runs along the east side of Ullswater to Howtown pier.

Howtown to Pooley Bridge

Directly behind Howtown pier, the route crosses the road and climbs through farming fields before turning left and eventually following a dry-stone wall.

After once again crossing farming fields, the path bears left around a farm and then turns left down a track towards the lake.

Turn right and follow the road to reach a camp site. Turn left into the camp site and continue on the lakeside track to return to Pooley Bridge.

The post The Ullswater Way first appeared on Stepping Outside.

Podcasts for Adventure Travel

Emma — Mon, 13 May 2019 15:55:22 +0000

One of the odd realities of hiking is that you often spend a lot of time in the car. Most of my weekends begin with a drive to the start of a hike or to a new area to explore. The positive part of all this travelling is the time to catch-up on podcasts. These are my go-to favourites.

SHE EXPLORES

The podcast interviews women who love the outdoors. Episodes include awe-inspiring guests who run ultra-marathons, tackle long distance thru-hikes and manage successful outdoor companies. There are also plenty of episodes which cover more day-to-day outdoor experiences; guests talk about getting lost, what they learnt from their first camping trip and how they became weekend adventure warriors.

POD SAVE AMERICA

Three former Obama staffers discuss the current political shitshow in America. They talk Trump, Mueller, the 2020 race and everything in-between.

It’s funny, thought-provoking and I’ve gone from having a broad understanding of American politics to confidently being able to debate the policies of most members of Congress.

WOMEN ON THE ROAD

As someone who is completely fascinated with the ‘van life’ movement, this podcast is very additive. Each episode interviews women about their experiences of life on the road. There are tales of travelling solo, raising young kids while living in a camper, dealing with chronic illnesses and grief, summer adventures and managing businesses from the back of a van; it’s inspiring, candid and often makes me daydream about throwing the dog and a backpack in the car and just driving off.

GRIEFCAST

This one is a little niche but it’s saving my ass at the moment. Host Cariad talks to comedians about someone who they have lost. The podcast explores the weird world of grief and, as someone who has recently joined the grief club, it’s incredibly helpful to hear how others are processing the enormous range of emotions that come with losing someone. It’s funny (really!), honest and incredibly raw.

S-TOWN

I’m half hoping that there isn’t anyone left who hasn’t listened to S-Town! If you’re one of the few who hasn’t, stop read, download it and listen now. It’s essentially one of the best pieces of journalism I’ve ever come across.

The post Podcasts for Adventure Travel first appeared on Stepping Outside.

Pen yr Ole Wen, Carnedd Dafydd and Carnedd Llywelyn from Llyn Ogwen

Emma — Wed, 27 Mar 2019 13:35:16 +0000

Starting at the east side of Llyn Ogwen, this route climbs the three highest mountains in the Carneddau range. With brilliant views of Tryfan, an exciting scramble to Pen yr Ole Wen and fantastic ridge paths, this is one of my favourite routes in Snowdonia.

Start and End Location: Lay-by parking alongside the A5 at the east side of Llyn Ogwen.
Start Postcode: LL24 0EU, approx. only
Distance: 14.2km
Time: 5-6 hours
Facilities: Public toilets next to the Ogwen Partnership Centre at the west side of Llyn Ogwen.
GPX Download: Link below map
Grade: Hard Mountain Walk, with a few short scrambles

Download file: PEN%20YR%20OLE%20WEN,%20CARNEDD%20DAFYDD%20AND%20CARNEDD%20LLYWELYN.gpx

At the east edge of Llyn Ogwen, head north on the road to Glan Dena. Continue over the wooden ladder stile and follow the wide gravel track.

When the track bears left, continue straight ahead on the stone path, marked with a National Trust pole.

The path runs alongside Afon Lloer and crosses the river once. Use the ladder stile to cross the drystone wall and continue north, following the stream.

The path gradually bears left, away from the stream. At the fork, go left and scramble up across the rocks. There are a few narrow gullies to climb – if you have a dog with you, it will probably need a ‘boost’ to reach the top.

The path reappears, with great views of Tryfan and the lake to the left.

Follow the well-defined footpath to reach the summit of Pen yr Ole Wen, which is marked with a small cairn.

Continue straight ahead and then bear right along the ridge to Carnedd Dafydd.

The path, often very faint, heads east and runs along Cefn Ysgolion Duon ridge and Bwlch Cyfryw.

Zigzag along the loose scree path to reach Carnedd Llewelyn summit, which is marked with a cairn and stone shelter.

From the summit, head south-east. The path is very clear and crosses the moorland before narrowing to follow the ridge.

Scramble down the rocks; the route slightly left of centre is the most straightforward.

Looking back at the scramble down.

At the junction, take the steep, right hand path down to Ffynnon Llugwy Reservoir.

The path runs alongside the reservoir and crosses a small bog before reaching the road.

Turn left and follow the quiet farming road back to the A5.

Cross the A5, turn right and continue along the road to return to the car parking area.

The post Pen yr Ole Wen, Carnedd Dafydd and Carnedd Llywelyn from Llyn Ogwen first appeared on Stepping Outside.

Red Pike, High Stile and High Crag from Buttermere

Emma — Mon, 18 Feb 2019 15:12:38 +0000

This high-level ridge walk offers stunning views across Crummock Water, Buttermere and the surrounding fells. The ridge is fairly straightforward, but this makes it no less spectacular. Scrambling across the loose, ruby red rocks to reach Red Pike is challenging and I would recommend picking a dry day for this route.

Start and End Location: Car park behind the Bridge Hotel in Buttermere. Approaching Buttermere from the north on the B5289, turn sharp right at the Bridge Hotel and take the first right to the car park.
Start Postcode: CA13 9XA approx.
Distance: 11.5km
Time: 4-5 hours
Facilities:Toilets in the car park
GPX Download: Link below map
Grade: Hard Mountain Walk

Download file: Red%20Pike,%20High%20Stile%20&%20High%20Crag.gpx

From the car park, follow the road back to The Fish Inn. Go through the wooden gate to the left of the pub and follow the gravel footpath to the edge of Buttermere lake, ignoring the right-hand fork.

Cross the footbridges and, with Buttermere lake to the left, continue straight ahead on the stone steps, climbing through Burtness Wood.

After approximately half a mile, the path reaches a wooden gate and the edge of the treeline. Go through the gate and follow the stone path, with great views back across Buttermere and Fleetwith Pike.

The path becomes increasingly steep and bears to the right to meet Sourmilk Gill. Follow the path to climb alongside the gill to reach the edge of Bleaberry Tarn.

Take the well-defined, right-hand path towards Red Pike. The path reaches The Saddle, with Dodd to the north-east and Red Pike to the south-west.

Turn left to continue to Red Pike.

The footpath quickly becomes very steep and more challenging; loose red scree and narrow gullies mark the final ascent to the summit.

The views however, definitely make the climb worthwhile!

From the summit, which is marked by a large cairn, head south-east. The path runs along the edge of Chapel Crags.

The final stretch of the path is hard to follow as the ridge is covered in scattered rocks. Essentially, keep going straight ahead to reach the summit of High Stile, which is marked by a large pile of stones.

From the summit, head south. On a clear day, the ridge path can be seen to your left.

The path is wide, well-defined and follows Comb Crags to reach High Crag summit.

From the summit, continue straight ahead. The descent steeply zigzags downhill. The picture below is looking back towards at the footpath and gives you an idea of how steep it is!

The footpath eventually levels out and crosses grassy moorland, before climbing again with great views of Haystacks ahead.

At the junction, turn left to follow Scarth Gap Pass directly down to reach Buttermere lake edge.

Turn left and follow the wide gravel, shoreline path into the woods.

At the junction, keep left and follow the path to reach the footbridge.

Retrace your steps to return to the car park.

The post Red Pike, High Stile and High Crag from Buttermere first appeared on Stepping Outside.

Great Gable from Seathwaite

Emma — Tue, 08 Jan 2019 08:25:39 +0000

Great Gable is quite rightly one of the most iconic fells in the Lake District. The summit boasts spectacular, panoramic views of Wast Water, Crummock Water, Buttermere and Haystacks. The mountain is also home to one of the Lakes most well-known remembrance services – on Remembrance Sunday, the Fell and Rock Climbing Club hold a service to honour all those who have perished in wars around the world.

Start and End Location: Layby parking just before the entrance to Seathwaite Farm
Start Postcode: CA12 5XJ, approx. only.
Distance: 8.5km
Time: 4-5 hours
Facilities: Toilets in Seathwaite Farm camp site
GPX Download: Link below map
Grade: Hard Mountain walk, with a few mild scrambles

Download file: Great%20Gable.gpx

From the parking layby, follow the road to reach Seathwaite Farm.

Continue straight ahead between the farm buildings and, about half way along, turn right through the metal farming gate. Follow the narrow track towards the river.

Cross the footbridge and continue on the stone path, keeping the wall to the left.

Use the ladder stile to cross the wall.

Follow the Seathwaite stone slabs to climb alongside Sour Milk Gill. There are a few mild scrambles along the way.

The path bears left to run alongside a stone wall, with Base Brown directly ahead. Turn right through the wooden gate, with great views back across Seathwaite valley.

The path continues north west to reach Sour Milk Gill waterfall.

Follow the footpath to bear left and climb through the valley of Gillercomb, towards Green Gable.

Looking back at Gillercomb valley

Turn right at the junction and follow the rocky path, marked with cairns, to the summit of Green Gable. From the summit, the views stretch along Buttermere and Crummock Water.

Continue on the rocky, and often slippery, path to descend to Windy Gap. At the junction, go straight ahead on the well-marked path to climb Great Gable.

The footpath soon reaches large rocks; continue, scrambling upwards.

The path becomes clearer and eventually bears left to cross a boulder field to reach the summit.

From the summit, head south east, following the rocky footpath to Sty Head, with great views of Great End and the Scafell range in the distance.

Turn left at the junction and, keeping Styhead Tarn on the left, follow the path to reach the footbridge.

Cross the bridge, turn left and continue down the valley, following Styhead Gill.

The path bends to the left just below Greenhow Knott. Continue on the stone steps to go through the wooden gates and across Stockley Bridge.

The footpath follows the gill to return to Seathwaite and the parking area.

The post Great Gable from Seathwaite first appeared on Stepping Outside.

Langdale Pikes

Emma — Wed, 25 Jul 2018 12:27:44 +0000

The Langdale Valley is one of the most popular hiking areas in the Lake District. This route, which climbs to Stickle Tarn and on to Harrison Stickle, has breathtaking views across the Langdale Pikes, Windermere and out to the coast. The path continues to the distinctive Pike of Stickle before joining the Cambria Way to climb down the valley.

Start and End Location: National Trust car park on the B5343, a few hundred metres west of the New Dungeon Ghyll.
Start Postcode: LA22 9JX, approx. only.
Distance: 11.5km
Time: 3-4 hours
Facilities: Public toilets in the car park
GPX Download: Link below map
Grade: Medium Mountain Walk, with a few mild scrambles.

Download file: Langdale%20Pavey%20Ark,%20Pike%20of%20Stickle.gpx

Take the footpath at the far end of the car park, to the left of the toilet block. Go through the wooden gate and follow the path to climb alongside the river.

Looking back at the footpath

Cross the wooden bridge and continue on the well-defined stone path, with the river now on the left. The path climbs steeply and crosses the river a few times before reaching Stickle Tarn, with Pavey Ark directly ahead.

Turn right at the edge of the tarn and use the stepping stones to cross the stream. Follow the path as it bears left around the shoreline. At the fork, keep left and cross the moorland. Use the stepping stones to cross the river. After approximately 100 metres, the footpath bears left up a steep, rocky path to Pavey Ark summit.

The views down to Stickle Tarn are superb.

From the summit, continue on the main path as it bears left.

The path, faint in places but marked with low cairns, continues south to reach Harrison Stickle, with views across Windermere.

From the summit of Harrison Stickle, head west, following the grassy path as it drops down across the moorland. The path bears left and joins a more defined stone footpath to Pike of Stickle.

Just before the path turns left to scramble to the summit of Pike of Stickle, turn right and head north-west across Martcrag Moor.

Keep left at the fork to reach the four-way junction, where the path meets the Cumbria Way. Turn left and follow the Cumbria Way alongside Stake Gill to reach the base of the valley.

Turn left to cross the footbridge and continue on the Cumbria Way for approximately 3.5 miles to return to the car park.

The post Langdale Pikes first appeared on Stepping Outside.

Why I love the outdoors…

Emma — Thu, 28 Jun 2018 15:36:21 +0000

In April, I climbed my final Wainwright. I bagged all 214 summits in 11 months. It’s safe to say that I spend a huge amount of time outside!

I love the whole process of spending time outdoors, from planning a trip to the final push to the summit.

If you haven’t planned a hike, it’s a lot like planning a holiday but you get to do it every weekend. For me, the ritual starts with mapping out a route, obsessively checking the weather and packing my gear the night before. On the day of the hike, I creep out of the house before dawn and drive down deserted country lanes as the sun rises, watching the beams stride across the mountains; I’m always shocked that anyone would want to sleep through this spectacular light show.

Then there’s the hike itself. Yes, there’s blood, sweat and occasional tears but there’s also an enormous sense of accomplishment and a calm that’s hard to find anywhere else. When I’m focusing on where to put my foot next and only stopping to occasionally take in the view, everything else shuts up. Any background noise, the constant urge to check your phone and those niggling anxieties, all disappear. And that silence, that peace, is extraordinary.

I’m fairly certain that marching through the wilderness keeps me sane.

There have definitely been moments when I’ve wished I had another, perhaps warmer, indoor hobby. I’ve hiked through persistent rain, reached summits in zero visibility, battled through snow storms and been knocked to the ground by gale force winds. But it’s always a short-lived complaint; I’ve never returned from a hike and not started thinking about the next one.

I came across this quote the other day, “The climb speaks to our character, but the view, I think, to our souls.”

Perhaps that’s all I’m trying to say. Reaching a summit makes me feel completely alive and free. The climb to the summit is often only a day or two, but I know these feelings are going to stay with me forever.

And one day, when I can't climb mountains anymore, I’m going to trace my finger across a map, remember all those summits and all those views and think, damn, I did all of that.

The post Why I love the outdoors… first appeared on Stepping Outside.

The Dodds and Clough Head via Sticks Pass

Emma — Wed, 30 May 2018 12:19:09 +0000

Stybarrow Dodd, Watson’s Dodd and Great Dodd are just north of Helvellyn. This route climbs to Sticks Pass and follows a relatively quiet path, with far-reaching views across Skiddaw, Derwent Water and Thirlmere.

Start and End Location: Thirlmere Recreation Hall Car Park
Start Postcode: CA12 4TJ, approx. only. From the north, turn left off the A591 onto B5322 and then right at Stanah Lane.
Distance: 17km
Time: 5-6 hours
Facilities: The Lodge in the Vale café, approx. 100 metres from the car park.
GPX Download: Link below map
Grade: Medium Mountain Walk, with good navigation skills required.

Download file: Dodds%20and%20Clough%20Head.gpx

From the car park, turn right and follow the farming track uphill. When the track bends left, continue straight ahead to climb across the stile.

The grassy path gradually bears right to reach a wooden gate in the far-right hand corner of the field. Go through the gate, turn left and follow the path to another wooden gate. Go through the gate and climb to the public footpath signpost.

Ignore the direction of the signpost and take the left-hand path to continue straight ahead. The faint footpath climbs steeply, with Stanah Gill to the left and great views back across the northern fells.

The path levels out and reaches a stone sheepfold. Continue straight ahead, gradually climbing to reach Sticks Pass.

Take the left-hand path to Stybarrow Dodd summit.

From the summit, bear left. At the junction, continue straight ahead to reach Watson’s Dodd summit.

From Watson’s Dodd, turn right. The path drops down and soon merges with a wider footpath to climb to Great Dodd.

From Great Dodd summit, turn left. The path is very faint here. Head south-west and after a few metres, the path becomes more defined. If the weather is clear, the path can be seen ahead, bearing right across the hillside.

Turn left at the fork and head straight for Calfhow Pike's rocky summit. Take the right-hand, narrow path next to the fence line.

Bear right and follow the wide, grassy path to reach Clough Head, marked with a Trig Point.

Continue on the grassy track, which gradually drops down towards White Pike, a rocky mount directly ahead.

Bear left at White Pike and follow the faint path around the edge of the rocks. The boggy path drops down to the Old Coach Road. Go through the metal farming gate and turn left. Follow the rocky, and often very eroded track.

Continue past the disused quarry. Continue straight ahead at the crossroad.

The track eventually reaches a large wooden gate. Go through the gate and immediately take the left hand track into the woods. At the T junction, turn right to join the more defined, gravel track.

Continue straight ahead, ignoring any paths merging from the sides, to reach the road. Turn left and follow the quiet road to return to the car parking area.

The post The Dodds and Clough Head via Sticks Pass first appeared on Stepping Outside.

The Chilterns: West Wycombe Circuit

Emma — Fri, 27 Apr 2018 07:21:57 +0000

Climbing past the Dashwood Mausoleum and Church of St.Lawrence (rumoured to be a meeting place for the Hellfire Club), the route weaves through woodlands and farming fields.

Start and End Location: Car park behind West Wycombe School on Church Lane. NB: This car park is only available on weekends. For weekday parking, use the National Trust West Wycombe Hill Top car park at the top of Church Lane.
Start Postcode: HP14 3AH
Distance: 13 km
Time: 3 hours
Facilities: Toilets in the car park behind West Wycombe School on Church Lane
GPX Download: Link below map
Grade: Medium Country Walk

Download file: West%20Wycombe%20District.gpx

From the car park, return to Church Road, turn right and follow the road uphill. Take the left-hand grassy path opposite the school gates and turn almost immediately right to follow the faint path uphill.

At the junction, bear right and climb the steps.

Turn left and take the wide grassy path to the Dashwood Mausoleum, a hexagonal structure based on Constantine's Arch in Rome.

Keeping the mausoleum on the left, follow the faint path into the graveyard.

At the entrance of the church, turn right and follow the track out of the graveyard. Continue around the car parking area and bear right to follow the road downhill for just over 100 metres. Take the left-hand footpath opposite the passing place.

Follow the path into the woods and bear right through the gap in the trees to reach a field.

Turn sharp left and continue on the faint grassy path which runs alongside the woods. At the end of the field, so straight ahead, into the woods and follow the well-defined track.

At the junction, go straight ahead on the narrower path.

At the T-junction, turn left to climb uphill.

The path reaches a wide track. Turn right and follow the track, which continues through a gate to reach Nobles Farm.

Continue straight ahead and follow the road for just under half a mile. When the four-way footpath signpost appears on the right, turn left and follow the direction of the signpost to leave the road and take the narrow path through the woods.

Climb over the stile and cross the field, diagonally downhill to meet the road.

Turn left and follow the road uphill. When the road bends to the left, take the right hand public footpath. The narrow path runs alongside the edge of a field and climbs through gates to reach a wider track and then the road.

Continue along the road and turn right at the junction. The narrow footpath runs alongside the road for half a mile.

After passing the entrance for Pankridge Farm, cross the road and take the left-hand footpath. Ignore any paths merging from the side and continue downhill to reach a road.

Turn left and follow the road for a few metres. Turn right at the footpath signpost and follow the grassy path alongside the hedge and through the fields.

The path eventually reaches a gate.

Turn left and continue along the quiet road until you reach Ashridge farm. Take the narrow footpath to the right of the farm entrance.

Continue straight ahead to go through the wooden gate and then between the farm buildings, following the direction of the white arrow.

Go through the wooden farming gate directly ahead and follow the track downhill. When the track bends to the right, leave the track and go through the wooden gate ahead. Follow the grassy path alongside the hedge to another gate.

Go through the gate and into the woods.

At the junction, turn left and join the wide, well-defined (and often very muddy) footpath.

Follow the track through Bottom Wood, continuing straight ahead and ignoring any paths merging from the side.

The track eventually bears left and merges with a farming track.

After the cattle barn, turn left into the farm courtyard and diagonally cross the yard to a stile in the far-right hand corner.

Go over the stile and follow the fence line to cross another two stiles.

Continue uphill, following the fence. Cross the stile straight ahead and continue to the next stile leading to a narrow footpath between fences. The path merges into a field and continues uphill, with great views back across the Chilterns.

When the path levels out, cross the right-hand stile and follow the track.

As the track bends to the left, continue straight ahead on the faint footpath between the trees and bear right into the woods.

At the junction, turn left. Follow the well-defined path through the woods.

Continue straight ahead at the junction. The path bears left and reaches the edge of the woods.

Join the track for a few metres. When the track bends right, continue straight ahead on the grassy footpath.

The path becomes more defined and continue straight ahead to reach the road.

Turn left and follow the road to the junction with Church Lane. Cross the road to return to the car park.

The post The Chilterns: West Wycombe Circuit first appeared on Stepping Outside.

The Chilterns: Coombe Hill Circuit

Emma — Tue, 10 Apr 2018 07:26:42 +0000

This route follows sections of the Ridgeway, thought to be Britain’s oldest road and offers panoramic views of the Chiltern Hills from Whiteleaf Hill and Coombe Hill.

Start and End Location: National Trust Coombe Hill Car Park
Start Postcode: HP17 0UR, approx. From Missenden Road, turn onto Lodge Hill and continue following the road to reach the car park.
Distance: 12.5 km
Time: 3.5 hours
Facilities: None
GPX Download: Link below map
Grade: Medium Country Walk

Download file: Chilterns%20Coombe%20Hill.gpx

Facing the road, go through the right hand wooden gate at the entrance of the car park, next to the public footpath signpost.

Bear left, following the direction of the signpost. Keep left to go through a gap in the trees and follow the fence line path.

Turn left to go through a metal kissing gate.

The path continues through the woods, marked with wooden posts, and leads directly to the road.

Cross the road and turn right. After a few metres, turn left, following the signpost for the Ridgeway Footpath.

Continue through the woods, following the signs for the Ridgeway at each junction.

The path eventually bears right downhill and reaches a road. Go straight ahead, taking the narrow footpath just to the right of the Buckmoorend Farm Shop sign.

The footpath runs to the left of the hedge and bears left at the end of the field.

Continue alongside the road. At the footpath signpost, turn right to cross the road.

After a few metres, bear right to leave the main track and take the narrow footpath which runs between the fences. Follow the well-defined path through the woods.

At the junction, go straight ahead, following the direction of the Rider’s Route.

The path passes through a narrow gap in a wooden fence to reach the road.

Turn right and follow the road for a few hundred metres. At the footpath signpost, turn left and follow the Icknield Way Rider’s Route.

Continue straight ahead, ignoring any paths merging from the side.

At the T-junction, turn right, following the direction of the public bridleway sign.

After a few metres, the path reaches another T-junction. Turn left to climb up through the woods.

At the top of the hill, turn right and follow the Rider’s Route through the woods.

The path eventually narrows and runs between wooden posts. Bear slightly right to reach a wider track.

Turn right and follow the track. Go through the wooden gate ahead and bear left for a great view across the Chilterns.

Turn sharp right and follow the direction of the Ridgeway signpost to a metal gate. Go through the gate and bear left to follow the well-defined track through the woods.

At the fork, turn right, following the Ridgeway Footpath.

Go through the metal kissing gate and turn right, following the track past The Plough pub. Cross the road and after a few metres, take the narrow right-hand footpath.

Continue through the woods to a wooden kissing gate. Go through the gate into Rifle Butts Nature Reserve and bear left to meet the wider track.

Follow the track to reach a wooden farming gate, with a smaller gate to the left. Go through the gate and then through the second gate directly ahead.

The well-defined path runs alongside the trees.

Go through the wooden gate, up the steps and turn right at the junction.

Turn left almost immediately through a metal kissing gate.

Continue straight ahead, crossing the wider track and following the faint path downhill.

At the T-junction, turn right. The path, marked with a Ridgeway signpost, runs alongside the fence.

Turn left through the wooden kissing gate and follow the path as it bears right to climb the hill. When the path begins to level out, turn sharp right and follow the faint footpath downhill to reach a gate at the corner of the field.

Go through the gate and follow the narrow fence line path, which bears left into the woods.

Go through the gate ahead and then straight ahead at the junction. Continue through the wooden kissing gate and bear slightly left to cross the field to reach a small wooden gate between the trees.

Follow the narrow path through the woodland.

Go through the gate and bear right around the edge of Beacon Hill.

Continue through the wooden kissing gate, through the trees and bear slightly right to follow the grassy path towards the church.

Carefully cross the road and take the narrow path into the church grounds.

Turn left at the fork and follow the fence line path through the graveyard.

At the bottom of the steps, go through the gate and continue straight ahead to the metal farming gate.

Turn sharp right and go through the kissing gate. Follow the road past the cottages.

When the road bears right, continue straight ahead on the footpath.

The path narrows and continues through a series of gates to reach the road. Carefully cross the road and turn left.

Take the first right-hand turn and go through the metal gate. Continue straight ahead on the farm track and through the gates.

Cross the stile and turn sharp right.

Continue across the next stile and into the golf course. The footpath runs to the right of the wooden hut and ends just to the right of the main golf club building.

Cross the road and take the left-hand fork. The narrow, sunken footpath climbs through the woods.

Ignore any paths merging from the side and continue to the four-way junction. Turn right, following the Ridgeway footpath sign. Continue on the well-defined track to the Boer War Monument, with great views across the hills.

From the monument, turn sharp left and follow the wide track.

Bear left through the trees and continue straight ahead to return to the entrance of the car park.

The post The Chilterns: Coombe Hill Circuit first appeared on Stepping Outside.

High Street from Mardale Head

Emma — Wed, 28 Mar 2018 07:52:38 +0000

Beginning on the shores of Haweswater Reservoir, this is one of my favourite hiking routes. The views are outstanding, stretching from Windermere and the Langdale Pikes to Helvellyn and the Skiddaw range.

Start and End Location: Mardale Head car park, at the southern end of Haweswater.
Start Postcode: CA10 2RP, approx. Continue following the road around the reservoir, past the Haweswater Hotel. The road ends at the car park.
Distance: 11.5km
Time: 4-4.5 hours
Facilities: None
GPX Download: Link below map
Grade: Medium Mountain walk with a few steep, rocky sections.

Download file: High%20Street.gpx

Go through the wooden gate at the far corner of the car park, just to the left of the noticeboard. The footpath soon splits; take the middle, less-defined path, heading south-west. The path soon becomes more defined and gradually climbs, with stunning views back across Haweswater.

Continue through the gate and climb alongside the stream to the edge of Small Water.

Turn right and use the stepping stones to cross the edge of the tarn.

Bear left and continue alongside the tarn.

The path gradually moves away from the tarn and climbs to Nan Bield Pass, marked with a stone wind shelter. The views back across Small Water and Haweswater are spectacular.

From Nan Bield Pass turn right, with great views of Kentmere Reservoir and Ill Bell summit to the left.

After approximately 400ft, take the right-hand path and climb to Mardale Ill Bell, marked with a low stone cairn.

From the summit, continue straight ahead. Keep right at the fork and follow the path to gradually bear right and climb to a dry-stone wall.

Turn right and follow the stone wall to High Street summit, marked with an OS trip point.

From the summit, turn sharp left to go through a gap in the dry-stone wall and then immediately right to follow the wide ridge path, with great views across the Langdale Pikes and Helvellyn range.

After descending for a few hundred metres, the path begins to climb again. Turn right and follow the path through a gap in the dry-stone wall. Continue straight ahead. The path gradually bears right to reach Kidsty Howes.

Keeping Kidsty Howes to the right, follow the wide ridge. Eventually the path begins to steeply climb down across rocky terrain. After a few mild scrambles, the path becomes easier and continues across a field towards Haweswater shore.

Turn right to cross the wooden bridge and follow the well-defined path, ignoring the left hand shoreline path. Go through the wooden gates, with Haweswater on the left.

Ignore any paths merging from the side and continue straight on.

The path bears right and follows the reservoir shore, with the car park coming into view on the far left.

At the end of the reservoir, turn left and follow the path through the gates and across the bridge.

Join the initial path and turn left to return to the car park.

The post High Street from Mardale Head first appeared on Stepping Outside.

Latrigg from Keswick

Emma — Wed, 14 Mar 2018 08:25:02 +0000

This little fell offers stunning, panoramic views of Derwent Water and Keswick. The route follows a well-defined path which steadily climbs to the summit. At the moment, this is a linear walk as paths through Brundholme Wood are closed due to damage caused by the 2015 floods. Information on when paths could reopen can be found here.

Start and End Location: Keswick Town Centre. There are numerous car parks in Keswick. Rawnsley Hall on Main Street, just before the Co-op is the closest to the start of the walk.
Start Postcode: CA12 5NP
Distance: 8 km
Time: 2-2.5 hours
Facilities: Public Toilets in Keswick
GPX Download: Link below map
Grade: Easy Mountain Walk

Download file: Latrigg%20from%20Keswick.gpx

From Rawnsley Hall car park, turn right down Main Street.

Turn right onto Crosthwaite Road and then right again at Brundholme Road. As the road starts to climb, take the left hand public footpath, signed for Skiddaw.

Follow the gravel track and go through the wooden gate.

Continue straight ahead, ignoring any paths merging from the side. Great views of the lake and surrounding fells soon appear.

The path eventually bears left to cross a small stream and continues through a wooden gate.

After just under ¼ of a mile, turn sharp right, following the signpost for Latrigg Summit.

The well-defined track gradually climbs towards a bench.

Continue along the track, which bears left to climb to the summit. There are impressive views across the Derwent Water, Keswick, Skiddaw and Bassenthwaite Lake.

After taking in the view, retrace your steps to Keswick.

The post Latrigg from Keswick first appeared on Stepping Outside.

Burnsall, Hebden and Grassington Circuit

Emma — Mon, 26 Feb 2018 14:00:42 +0000

Showing off Yorkshire’s farming valleys, traditional market towns and Linton Falls waterfall, this leisurely stroll begins at Burnsall Bridge. After visiting Hebden and Grassington, the route returns to Burnsall alongside the River Wharfe.

Start and End Location: Burnsall. There is a car park on the south side of the village and street parking next to the river.
Start Postcode: BD23 6BS
Distance: 11.5km
Time: 3-3.5 hours
Facilities: Public toilets in Burnsall car park and Grassington. Pubs, shops and cafes in Burnsall, Hebden and Grassington
GPX Download: Link below map
Grade: Easy, with one short, steep ascent.

Download file: Burnsall,%20Hebden,%20Grassington%20Circuit.gpx

From Burnsall car park, turn right and follow the river to Burnsall Bridge. Cross the bridge and immediately turn sharp left next to the public footpath sign. Go down the narrow steps and through a wooden gate. Turn right and follow the grassy path alongside the stone wall through two wooden gates.

After the second wooden gate, turn sharp right and follow the stone wall to the corner of the field. Turn left and walk steeply uphill to the gate, just behind the bench.

Go through the gate, cross the road and through the gate straight ahead. Continue straight on to a stone stile. Cross the stile and, again, continue straight on to cross a stone stile with a small wooden gate. Head diagonally left to a small wooden gate and stone stile.

Cross the stile and follow the direction of the footpath sign to cross another stile on the other side of the field.

Ignore the direction of the footpath sign and continue straight ahead to a wooden farming gate and ladder stile.

Go over the stile and turn sharp left. Follow the fence line, with stunning views across the valley.

Cross the stile and turn sharp right, following the dry stone wall to another stone stile. Cross the stile and turn left, following the direction of the public footpath sign.

Continue alongside the dry stone wall to a metal farming gate.

Go through the gate and follow the grassy track, which eventually bears right. Go through the farming gates to the road, with a farm house directly ahead.

Cross the road and continue between the farm buildings to the metal gate straight ahead. Continue straight on to reach the far right hand corner of the field. Go through the gap in the wall and turn left to climb over the stone stile.

Turn right and follow the gravel track. Just before the track reaches a gate, take the footpath on the left, which soon becomes well defined with stone slabs. Cross the bridge.

Follow the grassy path through the wooden kissing gate, between the trees and bear left, keeping the river on the right. Go through the small wooden gate and continue on the now tarmac track to the metal kissing gate.

Go through the gate, turn right and follow the road to the junction. Cross the road and turn left. Continue past the Claredon pub and the coach car park. Ignore the first wooden public footpath sign and turn right at the second, signed for Grassington via High Lane.

Continue straight on, following the path through two small wooden gates. The path eventually goes through a narrow gap in a stone wall, next to a four-way sign post. Take the path to Grassington. Continue straight ahead, following the path across a road and over stone stiles.

The grassy path eventually merges with a track, joining from the left.

Follow the track for a few metres and then continue straight on to a wooden public footpath sign. Bear right and follow the direction of the sign to a wooden gate and stile. Go over the stile and continue on the bridleway, which eventually reaches a tarmac road. Turn right and take the second left, down Main Street through the centre of Grassington village.

Turn left at the junction and follow the road past the National Trust car pack. Turn right down Sedber Lane, taking the tarmac footpath on the right, next to the stone wall.

Cross the bridge, next to the impressive Linton Falls.

Turn right and then left to reach Church Road. Turn left and continue along Church Road, past the car parking area and toilet block.

As the road begins to bear left, take the gravel road on the right.

Continue straight on and follow the grassy track uphill. Ignore the gate on the right and continue uphill, through the gate and across the field towards the stone barn.

Go through the narrow wooden gate in front of the barn and continue along the grassy track, which passes through wooden gates and gaps in the wall before bearing right to the road.

Turn left and follow the quiet road for just over half a mile. Turn left through the wooden gate at the footpath sign for BW Hebden. Continue on the grassy track through wooden gates to reach the river. Turn right and follow the riverside path back to Burnsall Bridge.

The post Burnsall, Hebden and Grassington Circuit first appeared on Stepping Outside.

What to Wear Hiking: Basic Guidelines

Emma — Mon, 19 Feb 2018 17:32:59 +0000

Different brands work for different people. Picking the right clothes for hiking is more about following a simple set of guidelines.

1. Cotton is not your friend

I really can’t stress this enough; do not wear cotton hiking. Cotton absorbs moisture and dries very slowly so if your clothes get damp through rain, sweat or snow, they’ll stay damp. In warm weather, this means you’ll be extremely uncomfortable and your body isn’t able to regulate temperature effectively. On cold days, damp material covering your skin can cause hypothermia. So one more time...do not wear cotton hiking.

Instead of cotton, pick materials which can dry quickly and remove moisture from your skin. Polyester or merino wool are brilliant, especially for base layers. Most gym tops and hiking t-shirts, like North Face tees, are 100% polyester.

2. Seamless Socks/Flat Seams

If your walking boots are fitted correctly but you're still getting blisters, socks made from the wrong material and thick seams are going to be the culprit.

Before buying any socks, always check around the toes; there shouldn’t be any lumps where the seams join as this will cause rubbing and blisters.

I generally wear two pairs of socks; a thin base layer to keep cool and remove moisture (IsoCool walking socks are great for this) and a second layer of wool socks, which are padded for comfort and stability.

3. Layers

The temperature at the base of a mountain or hill will be dramatically different to the summit, even if you’re only climbing a few 100 metres.

For most walks, you’ll need a base layer top, long sleeve t-shirt, down or synthetic jacket and a waterproof. The only specific brand I’ll mention here is Icebreaker; the lightweight, quick-dry, long sleeve tops are brilliant.

For the lower body, shorts or trousers – again, no cotton! I always prefer hiking in shorts and when it’s absolutely too cold for shorts, I switch to polyester gym leggings or synthetic hiking trousers.

4. Waterproof Trousers

I once spent 12 hours declaring my love for waterproof trousers while walking through torrential rain in Scotland.

So, yes, we all know that waterproof trousers will never look great and can take up quite a bit of space in your backpack, but they’re a game changer when you get caught in a storm.

If you’re buying your first pair of waterproof trousers, slowly lunge in the changing room when you’re trying on the trousers. You need to be able to scramble and climb steep ascents in your clothes and the trousers need to be roomy enough for this.

The post What to Wear Hiking: Basic Guidelines first appeared on Stepping Outside.

Castle Crag and High Doat from Rosthwaite, Borrowdale

Emma — Mon, 12 Feb 2018 20:14:46 +0000

The route follows the edge of Johnny Wood before climbing to High Doat, with spectacular views across the Borrowdale valley. The final ascent to Castle Crag crosses loose slate and offers breathtaking views of Derwent Water and Skiddaw.

Start and End Location: Rosthwaite National Trust Car Park
Start Postcode: CA12 5XB
Distance: 6.9km
Time: 3 hours
Facilities: Toilets in the car park
GPX Download: Link below map
Grade: Medium Mountain Walk

Download file: Castle%20Crag%20from%20Rosthwaite.gpx

Turn right out of the car park and follow the road. The road bears left, right and then left again. Take the right-hand track next to Stone Croft house.

Go through the left-hand wooden gate about a metre or so down the track. Follow the grassy path alongside a stone wall to another wooden gate. Go through the gate and bear right, crossing the field to a gap in the wall.

Turn left and continue on the path to reach the road.

Turn right, cross the bridge and then turn left towards the Youth Hostel. Continue past the Hostel into the woods.

The path goes through a wooden gate and follows the edge of the river. There are a few steep sections with chain rails to help out.

Bear right at the fence and continue along the rocky track. The path eventually leaves the woods and reaches moorland. Take the steep right hand, grassy path to reach a wider gravel track. Turn right and follow the track through a wooden gate.

Turn sharp right and follow a grassy path uphill through the bracken, with great views back across High Crag and Stonethwaite Fell.

The path passes through a gap in a dry-stone wall and climbs to High Doat, with views towards Castle Crag, the next destination.

From High Doat summit, the path bears left and drops down to a stile. Cross the stile and continue to a ladder stile in the stone wall ahead.

Go over the stile and turn right to cross the bridge. Follow the very defined rocky path. At the junction, continue straight on to go through the wooden gate and across the bridge.

The path eventually levels out, with spectacular views back across Borrowdale and towards Derwent Water.

Just before the track begins to drop, take the faint right-hand path to climb towards the craggy rocks.

The path weaves uphill towards a stile. Do not cross the stile. Instead, turn left and follow the fence line to a ladder stile in a stone wall. Cross the stile and follow the path to climb in-between the slate.

This angle makes the path seem a lot steep than it really is!

The path levels out by a large slate cairn.

Bear left and follow the faint path between the trees to reach the summit. If the weather is clear, there are great views of Keswick, Skiddaw and Derwent Water.

From the summit, retrace your steps to the slate cairn and down between the steep slate walls. At the fork, turn left and cross the ladder stile.

Continue downhill. The grassy path soon becomes more defined with stone steps and eventually bears right to reach a wooden farming gate. Go through the gate and turn right to join the main track, running alongside the river. Turn left to cross the footbridge.

Continue along the track, which soon joins the road back to the car park.

The post Castle Crag and High Doat from Rosthwaite, Borrowdale first appeared on Stepping Outside.

Interactive Map of all Walks

Emma — Sun, 11 Feb 2018 21:06:44 +0000

Interactive map of routes across the Isle of Skye, Lake District, Peak District, Yorkshire Dales, London, Snowdonia and Swiss Alps. Walking directions, maps and free GPX downloads available for routes.

The post Interactive Map of all Walks first appeared on Stepping Outside.

Scafell Pike from Wasdale

Emma — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 16:13:01 +0000

Climbing Scafell Pike from Wasdale Head is the shortest and easiest route to the summit of England’s highest mountain. The route runs alongside Lingmell Gill and includes a slippery river crossing before following a path between boulders to the summit trig point. On a clear day, views stretch across the coast and most of the Lake District fells.

Start and End Location: Wasdale Head Village Green
Start Postcode: CA20 1EX
Distance: 8.6km
Time: 4-4.5 hours
Facilities: Toilets just south of the car park
GPX Download: Link below map
Grade: Easy Mountain Walk – while the navigation is straight forward, and the route isn’t particularly steep, Scafell Pike is England’s highest mountain and the walk shouldn’t be underestimated. Always check the mountain forecast, especially the wind speed and visibility.

Download file: Scafell%20Pike%20from%20Wasdale%20Head.gpx

Head south from the car park, back along the road. Go through the left hand wooden gate, marked with a public footpath sign for ‘Scafell Pike via Lingmell’.

Follow the grassy path across the field to reach a wooden bridge. Cross the bridge, turn right and go through the gate. Continue on the rocky path as it climbs uphill, with great views over Wast Water lake.

The path joins a wider track and bears left to go through a wooden gate. The rocky path climbs next to Lingmell Gill and eventually turns right to cross the river; there are plenty of stepping stones but cross carefully as the rocks can be very slippery.

Continue to climb, with Lord’s Rake soon looming on the right. Go left at the fork and continue straight on. The path gradually bears left and then to the right. Cairns mark the way but they can be difficult to see between the boulder covered landscape.

Looking back at the path from Wasdale

At the junction, turn right (the left hand path leads to the more difficult corridor route) and continue to the summit, which is marked with an OS trig point and a small stone shelter.

After taking in the views, retrace your steps, remembering to turn left at the first junction and bear left downhill.

The post Scafell Pike from Wasdale first appeared on Stepping Outside.

Tips for Winter Hiking with your Dog

Emma — Wed, 17 Jan 2018 19:41:33 +0000

With more snow storms and freezing temperatures on the way, it’s essential to keep your adventure dog safe during winter hikes.

Paw Protection

To protect your dog’s paws and reduce the chance of frostbite, I would recommend using a paw protector wax or boots.

I use Musher’s Secret Pet Paw Protection. The wax, which is applied to the paws and in-between the pads, acts as a protective barrier and reduces ice build-up. Even with the wax, it’s important to regularly check your dog’s paws and remove any clumps of ice and snow.

Buying a Coat

The age, weight, type of fur and size of your dog will affect how well they tolerate cold weather. Large dogs with double-layer coats, like a Husky or Golden Retriever, will find a cold day significantly easier than a small dog with a thin coat. Based on what type of dog you have, you may need to ‘top-up’ their protection against cold and wet weather. I’m a big fan of Ruffwear rain and snow jackets for mountain hikes and Danish Design waterproofs for lower level walks.

When buying a coat for your dog, make sure you check the type of material; the outer layer needs to repel moisture and the inner layer should be synthetic to keep your dog warm.

Keeping your Dog Hydrated

Always ensure you have enough water for your dog, especially when puddles and rivers are frozen. As a general rule, always offer your dog a drink when you have one.

To check if your dog is hydrated, lightly press your finger on your dog's gum. When you remove your finger, the colour should instantly return to the gum. If it takes a few seconds, this is a sign of mild dehydration. Symptoms of severe dehydration in dogs can be sunken eyes, weakness, tiredness and collapsing often.

Hazards

Snow drifts, frozen lakes and icy scrambles are all potential hazards and should be avoided. Keep your dog close and under control.

Post Hike

At the end of a walk, always wash your dog’s paws in lukewarm water to remove ice, snow and any traces of salt and antifreeze, which can be toxic.

Start Slow

If your dog hasn’t seen snow before, a day hike might be too much! Introduce your dog to the snow and slowly build up the distance. It's just about knowing your dog and understanding what they are comfortable with.

The post Tips for Winter Hiking with your Dog first appeared on Stepping Outside.

Hiking Gear Checklist: Three Essentials

Emma — Wed, 10 Jan 2018 15:25:27 +0000

As well as picking the right clothes for hiking, you’ll need the basic gear. These three items are the key essentials to get you started.

1. Walking Boots

The best advice is to get your boots fitted. Most outdoor stores, like Cotswolds, have staff who are trained to help you find the right boots. As well as measuring the length and width of your feet, they’ll discuss the type of terrain you’ll be walking on and get you to test the boots on small slopes.

With their advice, you’ll need to decide what type of material your new boots should be made from and how flexible the material is. As a general rule, hill walking requires a more flexible boot and mountain hiking, across rocky terrain, requires a sturdier boot. Also, make sure you ask how long it will take to wear in the boots; leather boots can often take 10-15 miles of walking.

2. Choosing a Day-Rucksack

Size

For a day hike, you will need a rucksack between 20L and 26L to carry your essentials (water, clothing layers, maps and food).

I use a 26L Osprey pack as an all year round day hiking rucksack. I’ve gone for the larger capacity as I do a lot of walking in Wales and the Lake District so I always need space for waterproof layers and I often take a Nikon camera.

Ventilation

Always choose a rucksack with an air ventilation across the back. The mesh panel, which presses against your back, reduces sweat build-up and keeps you more comfortable.

Side Pockets and Compartments

Side pockets and internal compartments are a huge help when organising your gear. External pockets also mean that you don’t need to stop and open the main compartment of your rucksack to grab something small, like a dog treat.

Fitting

I would avoid buying a rucksack online and, instead, visit a store and ask one of the team to help you fit a rucksack. They will be able to correctly adjust the bag so the weight is distributed evenly and sits centrally on your back. Make sure the straps are padded and fit comfortably on your shoulders.

Hydration System

If you’re buying your first hiking rucksack, space for a hydration system (essentially a bag of water which fits inside your rucksack and has a drinking hose) may seem unnecessary. However, if you’re planning to do day-hikes, a hydration pack is really useful as the water weight is evenly distributed across your back and access to the water is much easier than stopping to open a bottle. Even if you’re not thinking about buying a hydration system at the moment, I would recommend getting a rucksack which accommodates one in case you change your mind.

Rain Cover

Rucksacks are generally rain resistant, rather than waterproof. Ensure that the rucksack has a detachable rain cover, which is often hidden away in one of the front pockets. Even with the rain cover, the bag won’t be 100% waterproof. See below for info on a dry bag…

3. Dry Bag

Even with a water resistant rucksack and a rain cover, your gear is still at risk of getting wet if you’re walking through heavy rain. Dry bags are light weight, long lasting and always keep your gear dry. Pack your clothing layers, phone etc in the dry bag before placing the bag inside your rucksack.

The post Hiking Gear Checklist: Three Essentials first appeared on Stepping Outside.

Five of the Best Winter Walks in the Lake District

Emma — Wed, 20 Dec 2017 11:47:21 +0000

With a little snow across the fells, the Lake District looks even more spectacular. These five walking routes make the most of the winter hiking conditions and include strenuous climbs to some of the Lake’s famous summits as well as more relaxing lake side walks.

Helvellyn from Thirlmere

More straight forward than approaching Helvellyn from Striding Edge, this is one of my favourite winter hiking routes. The climb to the summit offers spectacular views across Thirlmere, Raven Crag and the north west fells. While the navigation and the climb is fairly straightforward, this route shouldn’t be underestimated in winter months; there is often plenty of snow on the summit and the descent from Grisedale Tarn can be incredibly icy. Full Walking Directions and GPX Download...

Low Fell and Fellbarrow from Thackthwaite

I had mistakenly dismissed this route a few times as both fells are fairly low. In reality, the climb to Low Fell ends at one of the best viewpoints in the Lake District. Full Walking Directions and GPX Download...

Whinlatter Forest

With a little snow, Whinlatter Forest is transformed into a winter wonderland. The forest has numerous well-marked hiking trails, ranging from short kid-friendly routes to more strenuous walks with spectacular views. Walking Directions and map...

Loweswater Circuit

The majority of this route follows a shoreline trail around Loweswater, with great views of the surrounding fells, including Black Crag, Mellbreak and Carling Knott. Keep a look out for red squirrels and deer while walking through Holme Wood. Full Walking Directions and GPX Download...

Buttermere Lake Circuit

A circuit around Buttermere lake is the perfect afternoon stroll. This route climbs through Burtness woods before following the shoreline path towards Haystacks and around the eastern side of the lake. Full Walking Directions and GPX Download...

The post Five of the Best Winter Walks in the Lake District first appeared on Stepping Outside.

Low Fell and Fellbarrow from Thackthwaite

Emma — Wed, 20 Dec 2017 11:42:49 +0000

I had mistakenly dismissed this walk a few times as both fells are fairly low. When I eventually walked the route, I discovered that the climb to Low Fell ends at one of the best viewpoints in the Lake District, especially if there’s a fresh coat of snow.

Start and End Location: Limited lay-by parking just north of Thackthwaite. Additional lay-by parking can be found further north of the village.
Start Postcode: CA13 0RP
Distance: 8.2km
Time: 2.5-3 hours
Facilities: None
GPX Download: Link below map
Grade: Easy Mountain Walk

Download file: Low%20Fell.gpx

From the parking lay-by, continue south along the road. As the road begins to climb, take the right hand public footpath, marked with a wooden signpost. The path passes between houses and climbs alongside a stream. Go through the wooden gate and follow the grassy path as it bears right through a field, with great views of Grasmoor Fells to the left.

Go through the second wooden gate and continue straight on to a third gate. Go through the gate and turn right. The wide grassy path gradually bears left around the hillside and begins to climb through the bracken.

The path eventually reaches a fence line with a wooden kissing gate. Go through the gate and continue on the well defined path to a stile and then directly to Low Fell summit.

I would recommend continuing along the path for another hundred metres or so for a great viewpoint of Crummock Water and Buttermere.

After taking in the view, retrace your steps to Low Fell and then to the fence line and wooden kissing gate.

Go through the gate and turn left. Take the lower path heading north west. The footpath soon reaches a fence and bears right. Continue alongside the fence to climb to Fellbarrow, with stunning views of the fells behind.

The summit trig point is on the other side of the fence (there's a stile if you want to hop over).

Continue following the fence line. The path bears right and descends to a stone wall and ladder stile. Do not cross the stile. Instead, turn right and follow the faint path, which runs a metre or so from the dry stone wall. The path becomes more defined and gradually moves away from the wall and towards a stream.

Cross the stream, continue straight on to meet the initial path. Turn left and retrace your steps to the parking area.

The post Low Fell and Fellbarrow from Thackthwaite first appeared on Stepping Outside.

Whinlatter Forest

Emma — Mon, 18 Dec 2017 19:56:34 +0000

With a little snow, Whinlatter Forest is transformed into a winter wonderland. The forest has numerous well-marked hiking trails, ranging from shorter, kid-friendly routes to more strenuous walks with spectacular viewpoints.

Start and End Location: Whinlatter Forest Park Visitors Centre
Start Postcode: CA12 5TW
Distance: 5.6km
Time: 2 hours
Facilities: Toilets, café and gift shop next to the car park
Grade: Easy Mountain Walk
Map: Provided by Whinlatter Forrest

The Seat How Summit Trail is one of the most rewarding walks in Whinlatter Forest. From Whinlatter Forest Park visitors centre, the route is well marked with green arrows. After weaving through the heart of the forest, the path reaches a large clearing with impressive views across Skiddaw and Helvellyn.

The post Whinlatter Forest first appeared on Stepping Outside.

Helvellyn from Thirlmere

Emma — Mon, 18 Dec 2017 19:16:53 +0000

Approaching Helvellyn from Thirlmere is more straight forward than climbing Striding Edge and it's one of my favourite winter hikes. The circular route offers spectacular views across Thirlmere, Raven Crag and the north west fells.

While the navigation and climb aren't too demanding, this route shouldn’t be underestimated in winter months; there is often plenty of snow on the summit and the descent from Grisedale Tarn can be incredibly icy.

Start and End Location: Swirls Car Park
Start Postcode: CA12 4TW, approx. Approaching from the north, continue south on the A591. After passing a pay-and-display parking area on the right, the road bends left and Swirls car park entrance is on the left hand side.
Distance: 15km
Time: 5-5.5 hours
Facilities: Toilets in the car park
GPX Download: Link below map
Grade: Medium Mountain Walk

Download file: HelvellynThirlmere.gpx

Cross the footbridge in the far left hand corner of the car park. Follow the two footpath signs to Helvellyn. The well defined rocky path climbs towards the summit, with stunning views across Thirlmere and the surrounding fells.

The path levels out and bears right to the summit trig point. Striding Edge, Red Tarn and Swirral Edge are all visible on a clear day.

From the summit, continue following the path along the ridge. The path bears right and descends south. At the fork, continue straight ahead (the fainter left hand path climbs to Nethermost Pike if you are bagging Wainwrights).

The path continues just below High Crag and then bears south-east towards Grisedale Tarn.

The fairly steep path zigzags down to the north-west shore of Grisedale Tarn. At the junction, turn sharp right, keeping the tarn on the left. The path follows the shoreline before bearing right towards metal posts.

Continue straight on. The rocky path runs next to a stream and descends towards Dunmail Raise.

Eventually, the path reaches the road and a wooden ladder stile. Do not cross the stile. Instead, turn sharp right and follow the grassy path to a wooden kissing gate. Go through the gate and follow the direction of the public footpath sign, bearing right toward the river. Carefully cross the river using the many stepping stones and continue straight on.

Keeping the stone wall on the left, follow the footpath across the fields.

The path approaches a dry stone wall and then turns right to cross a wooden bridge. Go through the wooden gate and turn right to follow the gravel track through the woods.

Thirlmere soon comes into view and the track continues to Swirls Car Park.

The post Helvellyn from Thirlmere first appeared on Stepping Outside.

Buttermere Lake Circuit

Emma — Sun, 17 Dec 2017 13:55:17 +0000

This loop around Buttermere lake is the perfect afternoon stroll. The route climbs through Burtness woods before following a shoreline path towards Haystacks and around the eastern side of the lake.

Start and End Location: Car park behind the Bridge Hotel in Buttermere. Approaching Buttermere from the north on the B5289, turn sharp right at the Bridge Hotel and take the first right to the car park.
Start Postcode: CA13 9XA approx.
Distance: 7km
Time: 2 hours
Facilities: Toilets in the car park. Pubs and cafes in Buttermere
GPX Download: Link below map
Grade: Easy

Download file: Buttermere%20Circuit.gpx

Follow the road back out of the car park and turn right. Take the left hand track next to The Fish Inn and go through the wooden gate. Continue on the gravel track to another wooden gate, ignoring the right hand fork.

Go through the gate and turn right. Cross the bridge, bear left and cross a second bridge. Go through the wooden gate and continue straight ahead on the rocky path climbing into the woods. After a few metres, take the first left hand path. The path levels out and climbs through the woods a few metres above the shoreline path.

Ignore any paths merging from the sides and continue straight on. The path eventually begins to descend and reaches a wooden gate, with Fleetwith Pike looming ahead.

Go through the gate and follow the grassy path through the bracken. When the path merges with the gravel shoreline path, turn right and continue on the main track.

At the south edge of the lake, the path reaches a junction. Turn left and go through the gate (the right hand path leads to Haystacks and Fleetwith Pike).

Follow the track to the road. Turn left and continue along the road for approximately half a mile. As the road begins to bend left around the lake, take the left hand shoreline path.

The well defined path continues through a series of gates and follows the edge of the lake.

The path eventually leads into the woods and through a short, but fairly dark tunnel.

As the path approaches the northern tip of the lake, take the right hand fork. The narrow, rocky footpath moves away from the lake and runs alongside a fence to another wooden gate.

Go through the gate and turn left. Continue between the farm buildings and past the café to reach the road.

Turn left and follow the road back to the Bridge Hotel and car park.

The post Buttermere Lake Circuit first appeared on Stepping Outside.

Mellbreak and Crummock Water

Emma — Tue, 12 Dec 2017 11:52:09 +0000

Rather unfairly Mellbreak is often forgotten about, perhaps because it looks so foreboding from a distance. This means, as well as offering stunning views across Crummock Water and Buttermere, the route is in a quiet corner of the Lake District.

Start and End Location: Lay-by parking just past the Kirkstile Inn in Loweswater. Continue south from the Kirkstile Inn. Turn right at the fork and cross the bridge. There is free parking on the right.
Start Postcode: CA13 0RU, approx.
Distance: 10km
Time: 3-3.5 hours
Facilities: Kirkstile Inn
GPX Download: Link below map
Grade: Medium Mountain Walk.

Download file: MellbreakandCrummock.gpx

From the parking lay-by, continue along the road, heading south. As the road climbs and bears left, Mellbreak looms in the distance.

The road passes through a farm and merges with a gravel track. Continue until the track ends at a large wooden gate.

Go through the gate and follow the path straight ahead between the trees. The footpath becomes grassy and climbs through the bracken. Take the first right hand path, heading south/ south-east. The wide grassy path becomes fainter and crosses areas of loose scree, with Mosedale Beck weaving through the valley below.

The footpath eventually meets a wider path, climbing from the valley floor. Turn sharp left and follow the wider path steeply uphill.

The path levels out and reaches a junction. Turn right and follow the grassy, and often boggy, path as it weaves across the moorland. The path eventually approaches the small summit cairn.

Keeping the cairn on the left, continue straight on towards Scale Knott, ignoring any forks on the right. Crummock Water and Buttermere soon come into view.

Follow the footpath downhill to eventually reach a junction. Go straight ahead and continue to a fence. Step over the fence and follow the well defined path downhill. The path bears left and reaches a fork. Take the left hand fork and continue downhill towards a stream and wooden bridge.

Do not cross the bridge. Instead, keeping the stream on the right, follow the rocky path. Ignore the next wooden bridge and continue straight on. At the third wooden bridge, bear left, away from the bridge. The boggy path soon becomes more defined. Ignore any paths on the left and follow Crummock Water shoreline for just under 1.5 miles.

As the path approaches the northern end of the lake, turn left at the fork. The path climbs away from the shoreline and towards a dry stone wall. Go left at the next fork and follow the grassy footpath into the woods.

The grassy path leads to a wooden gate. Go through the gate and follow the wide track past the cottage to meet the road. Turn left at the road and continue to the junction just below the Kirkstile Inn. Turn left to cross the bridge and return to the parking lay-by.

The post Mellbreak and Crummock Water first appeared on Stepping Outside.

Loweswater Circuit

Emma — Tue, 05 Dec 2017 13:57:45 +0000

The majority of the walk follows a shoreline trail around Loweswater, with stunning views of the surrounding fells, including Black Crag, Mellbreak and Carling Knott. Keep a look out for red squirrels and deer.

Start and End Location: Lay-by parking next to a phone box, just past the Grange Country House, Loweswater.
Start Postcode: CA13 0SU, approx.
Distance: 6.4 km
Time: 1.5 hours
Facilities: None
GPX Download: Link below map
Grade: Easy

Download file: Loweswater%20Circuit.gpx

From the parking lay-by, take the public footpath to Holme Wood. The well defined trail runs alongside a small stream before bearing right through a wooden gate. The footpath crosses a bridge and continues uphill to a wooden farming gate. Go through the gate and continue straight ahead, joining the road. Follow the road as it bears left uphill. When the road ends, take the gate on the left, marked with a stone footpath sign. Follow the rocky track downhill. The lake soon comes into view.

The path leads through a gate and into the woods, with the lake on the left. Ignore any footpaths merging from the sides. The track eventually crosses a wooden bridge. Continue straight on, with great views across the fells.

At the south end of the lake, go through the wooden gate and bear left, following a faint footpath across the stream. Join the wide farming track and turn left. Follow this track through a series of gates to reach a small car park.

Bear right out of the car park and follow the road to the junction. Turn left and continue along the road for just over half a mile. After passing a stone barn on the right, the road begins to climb. When the farming fence ends on the left, take the very faint, rocky path on the left hand side, down to the lake.

Turn right and follow the rocky path, which becomes more defined, for approximately half a mile. When the path ends at a dry stone wall, turn sharp right and take the faint, steep path back to the road.

Turn left and follow the road to the parking lay-by, with stunning views back across Loweswater.

The post Loweswater Circuit first appeared on Stepping Outside.

Newlands Horseshoe Circuit from Cat Bells

Emma — Mon, 13 Nov 2017 19:29:47 +0000

This variant of the Newlands Horseshoe climbs Cat Bells, Maiden Moor, High Spy and Dale Head before following the ridge to Robinson. After descending to the valley, the route continues through Little Town and crosses farming fields to return to the base of Cat Bells. Although the climb to Cat Bells can be very busy, the crowds almost immediately disappear as the path climbs to the next summit. The route offers superb views across the Newlands Valley, Derwentwater and Crummock Water.

Start and End Location: Lay-by parking between Hawes End Centre and the main Cat Bells Car Park. After passing the sign for Hawes End Centre, follow the road as it bends right and there is lay-by parking for 5-6 cars
Start Postcode: CA12 5UE, approx. only
Distance: 18km
Time: 6-7 hours
Facilities: None
GPX Download: Link below map
Grade: Medium/Hard Mountain Walk - there are a few mild scrambles on the descent from Robinson.

Download file: Newlands%20Horseshoe.gpx

From the parking area, continue following the road to a cattle grid with a wooden gate on the left. Go through the wooden gate and turn right, taking the middle path through the bracken.

Cross the road, turn right and pick-up the footpath to continue through the bracken. The well-defined stone path climbs the hillside to Cat Bells summit, with superb views across Derwentwater.

From the summit, continue straight on, following the clear path. There are a few hands-on scrambles before the path bears right and climbs across rocky terrain.

The path levels out at Maiden Moor and then turns left to cross the moorland.

Eventually the path climbs the hillside and bears right to High Spy summit, marked with a large cairn. From the summit, continue straight head and then bear slightly right, following the path downhill in a south/south-west direction. The path is often very faint; the goal is to reach the river just before Dalehead Tarn.

Use the small stepping stones to cross the river and, keeping the tarn on the left, follow the footpath around the north-east shore of the tarn. After a flat, boggy area, follow the stone steps to climb the hillside. At the junction, turn left and continue to Dale Head summit cairn, with great views across the Newlands valley.

From the summit cairn, continue straight on, heading west along the ridge.

The path drops down and hugs the edge of the cliff before bearing slightly right and following a fence line to climb to Robinson.

Turn right when the path reaches the flat summit.

The wide gravel path passes a stone semi-circle shelter, with spectacular views of Crummock Water to the left.

Continue across the moorland towards Blea Crags, ignoring any forks to the right. The path becomes increasingly rocky and there are a few mild scrambles.

After a steep scramble down to Blea Crags (approximately one mile from Robinson summit), the path levels out on a small grassy saddle. Do not continue straight on. Instead, turn sharp right and follow a faint grassy path between banks of scree. The short, steep path, which isn't marked on OS Maps, has worn footholds and leads directly down to the dam at the base of the valley.

At the edge of the dam, turn left, keeping the river on the right and follow the grassy path through the bracken. The path widens and reaches the corner of a field with a dry stone wall.

Looking back at the path across the valley

Continue along the path, with the stone wall on the right. The path eventually reaches a road. Follow the road downhill and past Newlands Church.

At the junction, turn right. The road crosses the river and bears left uphill to Little Town. Continue following the road through Little Town. As the road leaves the hamlet and begins to bear left, take the footpath on the right to Skelgill, marked with a wooden footpath sign.

The path is approximately one mile and crosses farming fields to reach a metal gate, leading to a narrow lane. Go through the gate, turn right and then almost immediately left. Continue along the lane past the base of Cat Bells to reach the cattle grid. Cross the cattle grid and retrace your steps to the parking lay-by.

The post Newlands Horseshoe Circuit from Cat Bells first appeared on Stepping Outside.