Scafell Pike

From the moment we arrived to the moment we left it pretty much rained but we had come to climb Scafell Pike and the weather wasn't going to stop us. Top tip for anyone who is having to overcome the morale sapping zero visibility and lashing rain is to take someone along who turns up only wearing a pair of shorts John McEnroe would be proud of and a cheap plastic poncho....

The route we took started at the Wasdale Campsite and went straight up Lingmell Gill, up Brown Tongue and then onto the top via Mickledore and Death Valley (newly named by the group). This was a steep gully which required climbing and dodging loose falling rocks.....definitely the most enjoyed part of the walk.

Seven started but only six finished which was down to a complete lack of fitness from one of the add on members to the group, so if you are attempting this route or any other up Scafell Pike do remember to get yourself into shape before hand.

The new sport of Scree Running was also created on this walk, this is something which certainly has great potential....the secret is to go with the flow of the scree, slide well and stay light on the feet.

We didn't see many others all day, in fact we didn't see much all day so views were not apart of this walk....however it did open up for us as we were approaching camp

Time to get the next adventure planned.

Helvelyn via Striding Edge.

When the sun shines in the Lake District it is as good as any outdoor playground in the world. This was certainly the thoughts of the 14 who woke on Saturday morning ready for the day ahead. Within the group there was a mixture of experience but not a mixture of excitement as we headed out to climb Helvelyn.

The route we took went from Patterdale up towards Striding Edge and then onto the top of Helvelyn. Our route down then took us down White Face and back into Glen Ridding, via the Travellers Rest Pub for one of the most enjoyable pints going.

If you are thinking of taking this route my advice would be to keep going until you get to The Hole in the Wall, and then give yourself a break before you start heading towards Striding Edge. The first bit is tough but if you stick to this general plan you will feel like you have cracked the toughest part of the walk.

Striding Edge and the final climb up onto Helvelyn provide an altogether different experience. I think it is fair to say that this provides a great sense of achievement and some very impressive photo opportunities.

Although the paths and route are clear when the weather is good, this is not a casual stroll in the country and experience and fitness are both required for this. Go and Play......

Mont-Blanc - The Mistress of the French Alps

Later this month Chris Raybould, 62 will be heading to the French Alps to tackle one of the most impressive lumps of rock in Europe. He goes alone to take on the challenge which he describes as an amazing adventure and a once in a life time opportunity.

The aim first off is to enjoy some high altitude trekking and to carry out some glacier training and then if conditions are favourable and his health and state of mind are in top form then he will take on the mistress of the French Alps.

His progress, the highs and lows will be posted on The Outdoor Playground. I for one have full admiration for him and I cant wait to hear the tails which such an adventure will create.

The Yorkshire 3 Peaks....

One of the best days walking I have had. It started at 7.30 and I was surrounded by hundreds of fellow 3 Peakers all setting out with the aim of completing the summit of Pen-y-ghent, Whernside and Inglebrough totalling 25 miles in a time of under 12 hours. We decided to do it totally unsupported which meant we had to carry all food and drink, which due to the hot weather meant a lot of litres.

My three top tips for succeeding are

• Eat lots of pasta the night before
• Electrolyte tablets in your water
• Change your socks (this was brilliant)

The fact that there were over a 1000 people on this trail meant there was an incredible atmosphere and buzz which gave everyone I think the encouragement to continue and succeed. I am glad the mountains are not usually this busy but it was something very special this time around.

So we completed all 3 peaks in a time of 10hours 25minutes by the official clock in the Horton in Ribblesdale Cafe. This place does a great coffee by the way. Please get in touch if you are thinking about taking on this challenge as I would love to hear about it.