Innholdsfortegnelse for May 2018 i Trail

Jeremy Ashcroft, Trail’s Mountaineering Editor, delivers some of the best views in Britain and shows you how to get there p28 Ben Weeks fires up his pipe in honour of Mr Wainwright and spends the night on Haystacks p40 Twitter @GingerheadBen Hannah James puts her navigation to the test and gets all misty-eyed on the Glyders, Snowdonia’s most atmospheric mountains p50 Graham Thompson heads out into the Lake District and puts the world’s lightest two-skin tent through its paces p82…

Kit made partly from recycled fabrics isn’t new news. However, the Sierra Trail jacket goes one step further. Part of Jack Wolfskin’s Texapore Ecosphere collection, it’s made using a 100% recycled outer fabric, 100% recycled liner, and even a 100% recycled membrane. In fact, it’s the world’s first 100% recycled jacket, and that’s quite an achievement. The outer and lining are produced from recycled plastic bottles, so not only does the Sierra Trail not rely on new raw materials, it provides a purpose for old plastic, and manages to reduce C0 emissions in the process. We 2 may be fighting over who gets to keep this jacket, but there’s certainly no argument over its eco credentials – we all agree they’re impressive and, in an increasingly environmentally aware world, can…

Wild places to me are everything. I spend 11 months of the year working in wild environments all over the world. I have been working in the outdoors since I was 15, and being outside is where I feel most at home. My strongest friendships have been forged in the wilderness, and the moments that define who I am to myself occurred outdoors. My relationship with the wilderness is complex. Nature is supportive, and has provided moments of deep calm and clarity, but at times she has pushed my limits so far I thought I wouldn’t come out alive. I truly believe the UK is one of the most extreme environments. It’s subject to ever-changing weather, and you can experience four seasons in an hour. It is hard to get…

Q I’m looking to complete the Three Peaks Challenge this year. Can you recommend how to prepare for it? Jane Hopescott, Glossop Rob says The Three Peaks Challenge requires a pretty good level of personal fitness, as well as the ability to sit in a car for long periods of time between each mountain of course! There are alternative challenges – the Yorkshire Three Peaks or the Welsh 3000s (below) for example, that don’t necessitate as much driving, or the resultant environmental impacts. Whichever hillwalking challenge you opt for though, your fitness will need to be at a level that allows you to climb and descend multiple summits, at a continual steady plod, over 24 hours. It may sound obvious, but this type of fitness can only really be achieved…

Q How should I pack for unpredictable weather? Christopher Giles, via email Graham says In the UK’s hills and mountains it’s always best to assume it’s going to be wet, cold and windy. This is partly because mountain weather is so unpredictable, but it will also likely be cooler, wetter and windier the higher you climb. So even in summer, you need to pack some warm, windproof and waterproof clothing. Make sure you pack a warm hat, a fleece or thin insulated jacket, a waterproof jacket with a waterproof hood and waterproof overtrousers. I take waterproof gloves on almost every hill, too – even in summer, it only takes wind and a ‘summer’ shower to chill fingers. Finally, you need to keep your gear dry. There’s nothing worse than getting…

Q What are the best online resources to check weather conditions? I’ve been caught out a few times and don’t want to make that mistake again! Jo Marlett, via email Paul says The weather has a major impact on your safety, success and enjoyment on the hills. Yet surprisingly, according to the Met Office, 31% of outdoor enthusiasts have found themselves in danger by failing to plan for the weather, while only 20% say checking the weather forecast prior to heading out is a top priority. There are many resources for checking forecasts. Firstly, and most accessible, are online forecasts, with the two leading providers being the Mountain Weather Information Service (MWIS) and Met Office Mountain Weather . MWIS arguably has had the edge for accuracy, but the Met Office…

“SURROUNDED BY DARKNESS AND MYSTERY, THERE HAS BEEN HIDDEN TO THIS DAY A GIANT AMONG MOUNTAINS” I first visited the magical Virunga National Park in 2014. This was soon after its southern section was re-opened after two decades of constant conflict in that eastern swathe of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). I stood just yards from a family of mountain gorillas munching bamboo in lush forest, and was transfixed by the almost human intelligence behind their eyes. I was on the peak of the Nyiragongo volcano at night, staring awestruck as the world’s largest lava lake bubbled and boiled in the crater far below me. But, I was also told about the third great wonder of Africa’s oldest national park, one that had been – and was still…

All Trail tests are completely unbiased and independent. As Trail’s Technical Editor, GT has been testing our outdoor equipment for over 25 years, and is proud to be a bit of a geek when it comes to kit. GT's reviews have earned him recognition as one of the most influential people in the outdoor industry. He has collaborated with the Leeds University Performance Clothing Research Group, worked as an outdoor instructor and in outdoor retail, and has authored books on scrambles and a backpacking guide to the Lake District. GT’s love of hillwalking and backpacking has taken him all over the world, but the Lake District is his passion.…

WHAT TO EXPECT: UP TO £100 At this price, you are getting the basics needed to walk comfortably along footpaths that are not too rough underfoot. The shoes are generally well-cushioned and quite flexible in the sole when flexed from toe to heel, as well as when twisted between the forefoot and heel. This makes them gre at for walking on level surfaces, but less suited to rougher terrain. The lugs on the sole will be relatively shallow, which again is fine for easier paths, but for more rugged ground deep lugs will offer more grip and longer-term wear. The upper may have more mesh for low weight and improved comfort, but it’s less likely to have any additional reinforcement – such as rubber rands, for example – to increase…

12 km/ 7½ miles 4 hours This is no big summit to bag, but the chance to enjoy a quieter corner of the Lakes. Starting in Grasmere, you wind your way up towards Lang How, before making your way across to Blea Rigg. The paths are good and the terrain around you is wild. As you reach Lang How and work your way towards Little Castle How, you’ll forget you’re in the British hills, as it seems so cut off from the outside world. As you approach Blea Rigg, make sure to spot the little stone shelter that’s built into the craggy hillside. It’s from here that the views make the journey truly worth it. The beautiful lush valley to your left is a fine example of an ancient glacial…

16 km/ 10 miles 7 hours The impressive Llangattock Escarpment, in the south-east corner of the Brecon Beacons, forms a great sweep of limestone above the woods and pastures by the River Usk. But this high, ragged edge is only one facet of the sprawling massif known as Mynydd Lllangatwg (aka Llangattock Mountain). In contrast to the prominent Sugar Loaf and the long ridges of the Black Mountains, the hills on the south side of the Usk are often empty and pathless. Here, way beneath your feet, eons of underground erosion have carved a vast system of caves and passages which bubble to the surface in the form of shake holes and swallow holes. Some of these are almost big enough to qualify as lunar craters and, back at home,…

Edinburgh’s a fantastic place for a weekend city break, but for those who need their fix of hills the Pentlands is a peaceful oasis of grass-green calm and rolling mountainside steeped in fascinating history. Don’t be duped by the diminutive heights of these hills – steep climbs and craggy tops await you, with awesome panoramas of the surrounding relatively flat landscape, leading to distant, grey shadows of higher summits at the horizon. The Pentland Hills are a fantastic walker’s play park a stone’s throw from Scotland’s most exciting metropolis. On the last route there are birds-eye views of Edinburgh, so I highly recommend taking a headtorch and watching the sunset fade into twinkling city lights from Allermuir Hill. ROUTE 7 Scald Law and the Kips ROUTE 8 Carnethy Hill &…

14.3 km/ 9 miles 5 hours 1 NT233631 From the info centre, turn right (west) to walk towards Glencorse Reservoir along the road. Almost 1km from the info centre, just after the wood on your right ends, is a gate on the right. Go through it past an info sign in the gorse bushes, up the path. Strangely, this path features on the 1:50,000 map but not the 1:25,000. But it’s definitely there! It leads you to Castlelaw Farm where you are directed around the buildings via clear signage, popping out into a car park for Castlelaw Hill Fort and Souterrain. 2 NT229638 Definitely veer off the path here and explore the passage inside the Souterrain (French for underground), accessed from the north. Historians believe it was used in the…

1 You can reach Allt Daim and the base of Pinnacle Ridge from the North Face car park, but the easiest option is to take the Nevis Range Gondola and then traverse in via the path that passes the viewpoint at Meall Beag. 2 Head up the steep scree-covered slopes to gain the left-hand side of the base of the Pinnacle Ridge. Clamber on to the ridge and follow its crest directly. 3 The first pinnacle consists of large granite blocks. There is some loose rock at this point, so check holds before loading them. 4 The second pinnacle is more defined. The situation along its crest is exposed but mostly on the right-hand side. An airy summit is followed by a short down climb to a narrow col. From…

ALPKIT / DEFINITION With its price and attention to detail, this is a must-see jacket. The Definition has good stiffness and is tough, while the cuffs and hem barely ride up when scrambling. The wired-peak is well designed and the two big chest pockets sit usefully above a rucksack belt. There’s also a third smaller pocket and side zips for venting. We love it! Trail tested? 92% Trail Approved (Nov 17) £225 / 529g (L) / Men’s S-XXL / Women’s 8-14 ARC’TERYX / BETA AR For almost 20 years the Beta AR has been a proven all-rounder of a waterproof jacket, with Gore-Tex Pro fabrics at its core to repel the rain impressively. This hip-length jacket also offers a solid and durable feel, conveniently-placed hand pockets and an adjustable hood…

ALT-BERG / KISDON This is what a solid, no-nonsense 3-season walking boot looks like – and it’s one from a British manufacturer. The Kisdon is constructed from a nubuck leather for maximum breathability, but with minimal stitching and a full rubber rand for maximum durability. Add a Sympatex waterproof membrane and Vibram sole to Alt-Berg’s quality build, and you have a boot that’ll serve you well on many a yomp. Trail tested? 88% (May 2017) £220 / 1622g (pair) / Men’s 4-14 / Women’s n/a ARC’TERYX / ACRUX AR MOUNTAINEERING BOOT Designed to be light and durable for summer alpine, Scottish winter and high altitude mountaineering, this boot carries the B3 stiffness rating for use with climbing crampons when tackling snow, ice and steep gradients. It comprises of a polyethylene…

ARC’TERYX / BRIZE 25 The Brize works as both a trekking pack and an everyday bag. However, the design is very much weighted in favour of a hill-pack. It’s hydration bladder compatible, the Aeroform system helps prevent a sweaty back, the side pockets will hold poles or flasks, and the bungee straps lets you attach extra gear – including an ice axe. Trail tested? Not tested £110 / 905g / 25ltr / Unisex ARC’TERYX / NORVAN 7 HYDRATION VEST If you’re moving fast and light and all you need to carry is a 2-litre hydration bladder (included), one or two lightweight layers (not included) and a pack of energy gels (also not included), then this is for you. If you’re carrying a tent, it probably isn’t. Trail tested? Currently on…

CRUX / X1 RAID Tents usually come with an inner and outer flysheet. However, using the new X-tec fabric, this one-skin tent tackles the problem of condensation by actively moving water away using activated carbon technology. The Raid is actually a two-person summit assault tent, but use it as a one-person tent and there’s room to keep gear! Trail tested? Not tested £495 / 1480g / pack size 45x12cm HIGHLANDER / DRAGONS EGG SLEEP SYSTEM An almost all-in-one bivvying solution, this sleep system is a waterproof bivvy bag with a built-in self-inflating sleep mat. All you need to add is a sleeping bag and you’ve got a shelter you could put into use almost anywhere and in no time at all. Popular with the military, for obvious reasons. Trail tested?…

Smell that? That’s summer adventure. It’s coming, nearly baked, ready for you. What does it smell like? Maybe the nylon of a tent and the dew of dawn grass. The green smell of a bothy, a meal cooking, the tang of whisky on a cool night. Maybe it smells like the northbound services on the M6 near the Scottish border (don’t ask me why – my summer trips to the north always seem to stop here so indeed, why not?), fresh fish and chips on the pier at Ullapool, the salty breeze off the sea in North Wales, the warm mountain air as you watch the mountains turn red from the summit of Scafell Pike unfathomably late on a summer evening. Whatever adventure smells like to you, you’ll find the…

As served at Chesters by the River, Skelwith Bridge, Ambleside, Lake District We love Chesters! Two years ago, we found this superb café in the Lake District by accident, after walking a route from Elterwater in the worst rain imaginable. The staff hung out our wet clothes for us and we had a meal there – finished with the lemon meringue. It was seriously fantastic. Since then we return to Chesters at every opportunity – all their food is to die for, but it’s the lemon meringue pie we return again and again for! > Know any top post or pre-walk scran? Let us know at trail@bauermedia.co.uk…

OIL BEETLE There are four or five species of this beetle in the UK, but there were nine. Its life cycle is complicated and reliant on bees, so if the bees have a bad year, then so do the beetles. Now’s the time to see them. Fat-bodied with pathetically small wing cases, they waddle along well-drained footpaths looking for buttercups. It’s here they lay their eggs which turn into a grub. The grub waits for a bee, then grabs hold and gets taken to the nest, where they live until the autumn. They pupate, then emerge the next spring. HAWTHORN The hawthorn is at its best in the wilds of Britain at this time of year. Covered in white blossom, with an acrid scent, it never gets very large, but…

WATERTIGHT SEAL Non-wicking roll-top closure for waterproof security and convenient adjustable shoulder strap LIGHT AND DURABLE Technical treatments and PVC-free fabrics purpose built for most outdoor activities STRONG AND RELIABLE Reinforced stitching at all stress points for greater seam strength…

Q When is it safe to cross a river in spate? Actually, is it safe at all? Craig Newman, Poole Jeremy says YouTube is littered with examples of river crossings gone wrong. Even during slow-flow conditions, people get caught out by simple things like hidden water depth and slippery rocks. Imagine being confronted by a rushing burn swollen by snowmelt. You may have crossed a trickle on your way up, but on the way down, the same burn has become a raging torrent. This happens frequently as spate systems can multiply in width, depth and speed three-fold in less than 30 minutes. So, what to do? It’s tempting to risk a crossing, but entering water deeper than your ankles is rarely a good idea. If a watercourse in spate blocks…

Smaller paces 1 Don’t be tempted to stride out when you get to an uphill, as those big steps will really take it out of your thighs. You will use your energy more efficiently by taking smaller paces, even though you have to make more of them. Smaller steps 2 Don’t worry, we haven’t repeated tip number one! If the path you are on takes in a series of steps, whether natural or man-made, choose a route that makes every step-up small (for the same reasons that you should keep your paces small). There’s a reason why we build steps with a height difference of less than nine inches – that’s the least tiring size for most of us. So, look for a route like that up the mountains. Zig-zag…

SAFETY NOTE Virunga National Park is an emerging destination for the adventurous traveller, but there are still many problems in the region and travel here may be dangerous. Due to continuing unrest, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office advises against all travel to the area of the Democratic Republic of Congo bordering Uganda, where the Virunga National Park is located. The situation changes all the time, but going with a reputable expedition company who can navigate the miles of red tape, know local customs and can help keep you safe is absolutely essential for anyone without the relevant experience. You can also climb Mt Stanley from Uganda, which has no travel restrictions. Find the latest travel advice at www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice HOW TO GO Martin Fletcher was a guest of Secret Compass (www.secretcompass.com)…

LOOKING FOR A LIGHTER MORE NIMBLE SHOE? Regatta K ota £80 / 1020g (size 11 pair) • Men’s • Women’s 3-8 t synthetic upper keeps the weight dow while an Isotex waterproof lining keeps feet dry. The sole lugs a re well-spaced and the flexibility of the shoe make s it great for nimble movement. LOOKING FOR AN APPROACH SHOE? Zamberlan Intrepid £100 / 938g (size 46 p air) • Men’s 40-46.5 • Women’s 36-42 ned for approaches, this shoe has a stiff Vibram sole with Megagrip rubber. T here’s also lacing to the toe and a r ubber rand provides durability. DON’T NEED WATERPROOFING?  ndl Nebraska £115 / 956g 11 pair) • Men’s 6-15 • Women’s 3.5-10 ebraska’s nubuck leather and suede up mbined with a rubber toe rand…

11 km/ 6¾ miles 5 hours You are not short of choice when considering climbing Skiddaw, the ‘affable and friendly giant’ of the northern fells, as Wainwright put it. Indeed, one of my guidebooks includes no less than 10 different ascents. But very few walkers take this route, the little-known Randel Crag approach starting near Barkbeth. So if you want to escape the hordes tramping up from Keswick via Little Man, this is the option for you. Viewed across Derwent Water from the south, Skiddaw rises majestically above Keswick, forming a classic, symmetrical mountain scene with its outliers. It’s a vista you will almost certainly recognise. This walk, however, offers a very different perspective of the 931m fell – a quieter, remoter experience with new angles from which to appreciate…

14 km/ 8¾ miles 6 hours It is often said that ‘Capel Curig is a perfect little drinking village with a climbing problem’ and as such there are few better bases from which to explore the mountains of Snowdonia although as a resident I may be a little biased! Capel, however, speaks for itself with pubs, cafés, plentiful comfortable accommodation and, of course, a number of superb hill walks to exhaust before you even think about jumping into your car. This particular walk (one of my favourite ‘straight out of the door’ outings) is an absolute peach which on clear days affords sublime 360° views and an atmosphere which grows wilder with every step. Creigiau Gleision is the day’s high point... and there lies the story of Colin Adams who…

The Pennine Way has earned a reputation as being the toughest of the National Trails and a three-week end-to-end journey is too much for many. But three days in the Yorkshire Dales sounds perfect and is perhaps the loveliest short section. Best of all, accommodation and that all-important end-of-day pint is relatively easy to find. Of course, that does mean it’s likely to be the most popular too! There are tumbling waterfalls and towering gorges, natural caves and peregrines, limestone pavements, mysterious sinkholes, wind-swept moorland, a shapely summit, fabulous views of the Three Peaks and Ribblehead viaduct, and an ancient Roman road. Oh, and of course, some peat bogs! ROUTE 10 Gargrave to Malham ROUTE 11 Malham to Horton in Ribblesdale ROUTE 12 Horton to Hawes TRANSPORT Gargrave is on…

“ he Pennine Way offers caves, peregrines, & fabulous views” 22 km/ 13 miles 7 hours  1 SD808724 Head north to The Crown Inn (take care, no pavement on bend) and through its car park onto a restricted byway. This rises steadily for about 1km before the gradient eases. 2 SD812737 Enjoy the view of Ingleborough to the left as you enter access land, then pass an impressive sinkhole, where the Sell Gill tumbles down a chasm into the ground. 3 SD811743 Take care to locate the correct path leaving Sell Gill, it initially continues beside the ongoing wall line, then stays right and uphill away from the wall. After about 500m, the Three Peaks path joins the route. 4 SD810761 After 1.3km continue ahead as the Three Peaks path…

MARMOT / PHOENIX At a time when being eco-friendly has traversed the periphery to take centre stage, it’s heartening to see the abundance of outdoor gear brands actively endorsing an eco warrior attitude. For examples, see Jack Wolfskin’s Sierra Trail (p11) and, in unveiling its new EvoDry line, Marmot. The lightweight Phoenix is made from recycled nylon in a process that reduces water use and is totally free of harmful PFC products, thus minimising its ecological footprint. There’s no compromise on performance though. A 2.5-layer fabric and fully-taped seams deliver excellent wet weather protection, while you also get two zipped hand pockets, an elasticated drawcord hem, adjustable cuffs and a well-fitting hood. What’s more, you can wear it with pride, knowing that in choosing it you’ve done your bit to…

REGATTA / PACK IT If you need basic overtrousers and don’t want to bust the bank, these are a great, lightwei ght option. You get press stud adjustable ankle cuffs to prevent flapping, but there’s no mesh lining inside or side zips. The Isolite 5000 nylon trousers can’t boast the same levels of waterproofing or breathability as more pricey trousers, but they’ll keep you dry nonetheless. Trail tested? Be st for Low Budget (Nov 2017) £20 / 171g / Men’s XS-XXXL / Women’s S-XL BERGHAUS / DELUGE These have been a stand-out pair of all-round overtrousers for years. They’re well-priced, but offer a lot more than others in a similar bracket. Built using Berghaus’s own Hydroshell nylon fabric, with mesh lining for added comfort, these trousers feature a thigh-length zip,…

1 FINISTERRE / NIMBUS Doing a sterling impression of a fully-featured down jacket, this Primaloft Eco-stuffed layer from underrated Cornish sustainability champions Finisterre carries many excellent features for the regular hillwalker. The insulation stays warm when wet, the shell is windproof recycled ripstop polyester, the hood is fully adjustable, it has a good stormflap, boasts fleece-lined pockets, and all this packs into a built-in stuffsack. Trail tested? Currently on test £180 / 475g / Men’s S-XXL / Women’s 8-16 2 FJALLRAVEN / KEB TOURING DOWN JACKET This top Scandinavian jacket with 800 fill down, sustainable credentials, impeccable build quality and a fine heritage could be all yours (for a price). It’s a classy affair, with reinforcements on key wear areas, a two-way zip, loads of pockets and its own repair…

SCARPA / RIBELLE MOUNTAIN TECH OD We think this is the lightest B2-rated crampon-compatible boot available, but importantly you still get all the grip and support you need underfoot to climb pretty gnarly terrain from via ferrata routes and into alpinism. It is the OutDry waterproof Sock-Fit Plus system that transforms the look and the performance of this boot. In essence, the ankle cuff has been replaced by a soft, flexible gaiter, which prevents grit and grime from entering the boot. But importantly this gaiter also allows plenty of freedom of movement, and so this feels like a beefed-up trail shoe with an attached ankle gaiter. Some may prefer something with more support, while others will enjoy the benefits of flexibility and the lower weight. But for sure Scarpa has…

Outsole Look for lugs that are well spaced and deep, so they can provide a good grip without easily clogging with mud and without wearing away too rapidly. A deep heel breast – the step between the heel and midfoot area of the sole unit – is vital for providing braking power in descents. Upper A leather upper made with minimal stitching will last for many years if cared for well, and will probably outlast the grip on the sole. Conversely an upper that is made of lots of layers of synthetic fabric, mesh and thin strips of suede leather is unlikely to be as durable and can be slow drying. But mesh and sy nthetic upp ers are lig hter and lower in price than leather. Midsole flex Grab…

1 LOWE ALPINE / AEON ND25 The Aeon packs are as versatile as they are technical. Use them for trekking, cycling, running, climbing or commuting – you name it, they’ll do it. This women’s 25-litre zip-top model features an ultra-thin, low profile Flexion harness, a highly ventilated Air Contour back system, and the Multi-Lock attachment system that will hold walking poles, ice axes, or a helmet with no fuss. Trail tested? New for 2018 £100 / 840g / 25ltr / Men’s: Aeon 27L 2 OSPREY / STRATOS 26 Built around its Adjustable AirSpeed trampoline suspended mesh backsystem, the Stratos is comfortable to carry and won’t result in an overly sweaty back. Add in the usual Osprey extras like a detachable raincover, internal hydration sleeve, ice axe loop, twin zippered hipbelt…

1 OSPREY / XENITH 75 On a proper multi-day wilderness expedition, you may need to carry everything bar the kitchen sink. A plethora of pockets gives you plenty of storage space, multiple access points make retrieving your kit easy, and the molded hipbelt and adjustable harness ensure it’s all comfortable to carry over epic distances. If you need the kitchen sink too, 88- and 105-litre versions are also available. Trail tested? Currently on test £220 / 2340g / 75ltr / Women’s: n/a 2 VANGO / PINNACLE 60+10 The price may be cheap, but the performance is anything but. The Pinnacle makes even heavy loads so comfortable and well-balanced that more expensive packs blush. It’s well equipped, adjustable, and far more comfortable and stable than you’d expect at this price. In…

SLEEPING WELL IN 2018 Synthetic insulation is making leaps and bounds. But down is still the gold standard for sleeping bags you would want to carry over distance – but down is changing. Fairtrade manufacture, down treated with PFC-free hydrophobic treatment that is ethically sourced, traceable, and from none-live plucked and none-force-fed birds seems like a long list of ethical and environmental considerations... but almost all major brands are stepping up. Kudos, we say. Yes, it’s pushed the cost up, but it means we’re all working towards a more responsible world. And we’ll all sleep better as a result, right? PATAGONIA / 850 DOWN -7°C This is Patagonia’s first foray into sleeping bags since its founder, Yvon Chouinard, designed and stitched his own in 1972 – and it’s a bold…

VAUDE / SPACE SUL 1-2P SEAMLESS The story here is the unique seam-sealing technology that increases tear strength and waterproofness. The result is a reliably protective dome tent with excellent internal space for a single person, or snug but useable accommodatation for a friendly couple. Trail tested? New for 2 £650 / 1-2 person / 1400 size 40x12cm EUREKA! / DUOTAIRE An interesting and affordable backpacking tent from US stalwarts Eureka! (who made canvas wagon covers for pilgrims, so know a bit). The fly can be rolled back to expose window panels of mesh, giving you a view of the stars. It’s al a good weight for two and an bargain. Eureka! indeed. Trail tested? Currently on tes £100 / 2-person / 2240g / pack size 49x14cm F10 / HELIUM…

A 1in map of Kent became the first to be published by Ordnance Survey in 1801. Since then, OS has mapped the entire 243,241 sq km of Great Britain, and as many as 10,000 changes are made to its database every day. The first ever piece of Kendal Mint Cake was made, accidentally (as all the best inventions seem to be), by Joseph Wiper in 1869. Now a confectionery classic and hillwalker’s favourite, what Mr Wiper was attempting was a boiled sugar recipe. The batch went wrong, and the rest is history. The height of Glyder Fawr was updated in 2010 after a group of amateur surveyors revealed it was actually 1.8m taller than previously thought. The mountain’s elevation was boosted to 1000.8m to qualify it as Wales’ fifth ‘super…

The mountains of Europe are home to a network of huts and refuges which provide shelter, sustenance and overnight accommodation. This makes them ideal for multi-day, point-to-point treks as a way to explore the Alps or Pyrenees. The Mountain Hut Book is for hut rookies and connoisseurs alike. The result of over four decades of research by author Kev Reynolds, the book examines hut life – the facilities you can expect, hut conventions and etiquette, stories of the people who use the huts and stories of the people who run them. For £14.95 you also get a directory of Alpine huts, the top-ten huts in the Alps and Pyrenees, plus ten of the best hut-to-hut walking tours (3-13 days). > www.cicerone.co.uk…

SAVE THE HILLS… SHOP FOR GEAR Is it just us, or in all the doom and gloom of the nine o’clock news is there a tangible movement of goodwill flooding from outdoor brands at the moment? The latest is Montane, which has announced it will donate 1% of all its web sales to the BMC’s Mend our Mountains campaign. So now you can help protect fragile mountain environments simply by buying gear! We’re loving all this peace and love, man! SEE HOW www.montane.co.uk/mend-our-mountains-i689 GET INVOLVED… IN A MOUNTAIN MOVIE Mountain film maker Terry Abraham is embarking on the finale to his Life of a Mountain trilogy. Following on from the beautiful footage celebrating Scafell Pike and Blencathra, Terry has his sights on Helvellyn. But he needs your help…

It was the summer of 1993, and we were on holiday in north Wales with our two young children, Natalie and Stephen. After consulting the ‘things to do in north Wales’ leaflet, we decided to visit the Snowdon Mountain Railway. What we hadn’t considered was that it was the height of the season, and on arriving in Llanberis our hearts sank as the length of the queue snaking across the road from the booking office was revealed. So it was decided that Gail and Stephen would enjoy the day in Llanberis, and Natalie (our 10-year-old) and I would walk to the summit of Snowdon. Having never walked up a mountain before this was completely unknown territory for us both. And suffice to say it proved more arduous than a mountain…

“300 DAYS A YEAR IN THE MOUNTAINS WERE NO LONGER SUSTAINABLE” Rob Johnson’s love for high places developed from a childhood adventure on the Snowdon Horseshoe with his dad at 16. Then after helping with a rescue on the Cuillin Ridge on the Isle of Skye at just 17, the idea was first born that he might even be able to earn a living in the places he loved. So when his 25-year obsession with the hills looked set to come to an abrupt end in 2014, it was time for some creative thinking... A pointy backdrop Rob’s twenties were spent gaining all the mountain qualifications he could, from an Mountaineering Instructor Certificate to International Mountain Leader. “The mountains have been the backdrop to my whole life,” says Rob. “That…

PREMIUM CATEGORY Is it worth paying more for a top quality 3-season boot? We reviewed boots with price tags from £175 to £250 to find what benefits they offer. UPPER A traditional leather upper, made with minimal stitching, will last for many years if cared for well – and will probably outlast the grip on the sole. Conversely, an upper that is made of lots of synthetic fabric, mesh and thin strips of suede leather is unlikely to be as durable – due to extra stitching – and often tends to be slow drying. OUTSOLE Well-spaced deep lugs can bite into soft ground without clogging. A deep heel breast – the step between the heel and midfoot area of the sole unit – is vital for providing braking power in…

DIGITAL OS MAPS – FREE WITH TRAIL SUBS (or £25.99) USED BY Technophobe deputy editor Jenna Maryniak USED FOR 18 months This review comes with a warning, I am not exactly on the pulse when it comes to technology. But moving with the times has great benefits, so planning a trip to the mountains now starts with route planning on my desktop Digital OS Maps. I’ve worked out how to see the terrain in amazing detail in a 3D aerial view, satellite or OS Mapping. I can search for routes, or plot my own, and measure distance and ascent gained. I can then print the relevant section of map in standard 1:25k or 1:50k on A3-sized paper to take out on the hill with me. Until recently, this is where…

Hannah James Outdoors writer and blogger that just can’t get enough of the hills. James Forrest Conquered all 446 Nuttalls in just six months. Steve Goodier Author of seven walking guidebooks, Steve loves the UK hills. Roger Butler Roger likes to tick off remote Hebridean islands as well as mountains. Nick Livesey Acclaimed Snowdoniabased photographer and rarely off the hills. Keith Fergus Author of 15 guidebooks to Scotland’s isles and coastline walks. Claire Maxted Former Editor of Trail Running & Trail writer, Claire’s a mountain pro. Chiz Dakin Award-winning writer, photographer and film-maker. Avid traveller. STRENUOUSNESS How tired will this route make me? The times quoted for Trail Routes are based on estimates of 4km per hour, plus 30 minutes for every 300m of ascent, with another hour for rests…

10 km/ 6 miles 3½ hours The western side of the Howgill Fells offer some remote wilderness walking above the Lune Gorge. And because you are on the escarpment edge and the ground drops away before rising again to the Eastern Lakeland Fells, you also get some stunning views. Tebay is not often thought of as a walker’s village but from it you can bag the remote summits of Blease Fell (1556ft/474m) and Hare Shaw (1548ft/472m), plus the minor tops of Knott and Weather Hill in a wilderness horseshoe that makes a round of Tebay Gill. Once you are free of the houses and elevated farms you will find yourself on an exhilarating hill walk that takes in two parallel ridges and has a stunning viewpoint at its head. Gradients…

20.5 km/ 12¾ miles 8½ hours The Mamores form perhaps the finest range of mountains in Scotland outside the Black Cuillin of Skye. Comprising 10 Munros they have been fused together into a seemingly impenetrable barrier above Glen Nevis and Loch Leven. The majority of routes into this jagged sweep of glorious peaks are accessed from the head of Glen Nevis, near Fort William, but a few also leave from the secluded village of Kinlochleven, including this memorable walk. Kinlochleven developed in the early 20th century through aluminium smelting, which was part of the hydroelectric scheme, and it’s said the village was the first in the world to have every house connected to electricity. Today outdoor activities are key to the local economy (the West Highland Way runs through Kinlochleven),…

15 km/ 9½ miles 5 hours 1 SD932535 Head north into Gargrave from the station, crossing the River Aire then meeting the A65. Cross this at a staggered crossroads onto West Street. At a junction where the major road bears right, go straight ahead to stay on West Street, then pass over the Leeds and Liverpool Canal. At the next junction, go straight ahead onto the dead-end Mark House Lane. 2 SD924550 At the head of a long steady rise fork right onto a footpath, which runs north-north-west for 3km to meet the River Aire at the grassy pasture of Eshton Moor. Although waymarked, the navigation is a bit more awkward than this suggests. So in more detail – a faint path through grassy fields gently diverges from the line…

1 HAGLOFS / ESSENS III VEST A down vest can increase your core warmth and be a life-saving bit of kit. The Essens III adds class and sustainability to the mix with its responsibly-sourced 800 fill water-resistant down, Bluesign-approved materials and Pertex Quantum shell. Trail tested? Currently on test £150 / 180g / Men’s XS-XXL / Women’s XXS-XL 2 MONTANE / SPIDER HOODIE Boasting superlight warmth, with stretch and articulation, the Spider Hoodie is a must for adventurers. Made from Pontetorto Tecnostretch, with Cordura, it’s warm, but tough. Trail tested? New for 2018 £100 / 335g / Men’s S-XL / Women’s n/a 3 BERGHAUS / XTREM 7000 This hybrid mid layer is made from body-mapped Polartec Power Grid that traps air, breathes well, dries fast, and feels instantly warm. It’s…

1 PÁRAMO / ANDINA The jacket of choice for many a hardy mountaineer, Paramo’s waterproofing system employs Nikwax Analogy for awesome breathability, water and wind resistance, with the comfort and warmth of a soft shell. It’s a one-jacket-does-it all design for a wide range of year-round activities, including walking, cycling and climbing. The hood fit and movement is impressive, and the jacket also features large zipped vents and a reinforced back panel to prevent wear from rucksacks. Plus, this women’s version is really well cut. Trail tested? 84% (Nov 2017) £265 / 605g / Men’s none, but Quito is close S-XXL / Women’s XS-XL 2 MONTANE / DYNO STRETCH Scoring an extremely rare perfect 100% in Trail’s soft shell test last year, the Dyno Stretch is an outstanding jacket. Made…

1 MEINDL / SEDONA GTX The Sedona features a full-grain leather upper with minimal stitching to increase toughness, and a rubber rand over the toe for durability over rockier ground. Patterning on the leather upper gives a modern twist to this classic outline, while the use of Gore-Tex inside ensures dry feet and Memory Foam ups the comfort factor. A new Multigrip 3-sole unit from Vibram also provides traction. Trail tested? New for 2018 £200 / 1480g (pair) / Men’s 6-12 / Women’s 3.5-9 2 AKU / TENGU LIGHT GTX Designed for lightweight performance while trekking or following via ferrata routes, the Tengu features AKU’s Elica Natural Stride System to improve load distribution over the foot. The synthetic Air8000 upper is protected by suede and a rubber rand. The sole…

Length The same sock design will often come in different lengths. For hillwalking a medium-length sock that comes to the bottom of the calf is commonly preferred. But you may prefer a knee-length sock if you often wear shorts or just want extra warmth. Short socks may seem ideal in summer but they may not fully cushion your foot against a boot’s high ankle cuff. So choose socks that at least protect against the ankle cuff of your footwear. Sizing It’s vital that socks fit well, as loose areas may lead to rubbing and blisters, so having a sock that comes in a broad range of sizes may increase your chances of finding the perfect fit. Low-priced socks may only be available in a small size range, while others are…

Fit Rucksacks come in different backlengths – some are a one-size-fits-all designs, others, like the Osprey Tempest, are designed for women, and others are adjustable. To check if a pack’s size is right for you, tighten the waist or hipbelt, adjust the shoulder straps and clip the chest strap buckles together. Do the shoulder straps dig into your neck? Is the waistbelt sitting comfortably? Is the hipbelt resting on your hipbone as it should be? The weight should bear down on your shoulders and hips. Osprey’s ‘Pack Sizer’ app (digital pack-fitting tool) can help with this. Ventilation If there is good air movement around your back, you will get less sweaty wearing the pack. The fewer body contact areas, the more airflow there will be. Osprey Exos and Eja have…

DEUTER / ORBIT 0° If you’re after a low-maintenance, durable, all-round sleeping bag then the Deuter Orbit 0° is a great option. The seamless outer lining is soft, water-repellent and crackle-free, while the synthetic fibre fill will keep you warm on cool summer nights. It’s also PFC-free and the almost full-length zip uses an anti-catch strip. Trail tested? On test now £100 / 1400g / 0°C (comfort) HIGHLANDER / TREKKER 250 This new Highlander budget-option bag comes with a soft ‘cotton-feel’ lining to go with polyester fibre synthetic fill and a 20 denier ripstop nylon shell. The Trekker 250 also features a three-quarter length zip with baffle, a drawcord hood and a handy integrated mosquito head net. A good low-price option, especially if you want to keep those pesky Highland…

STAYING OUT IN 2018 When it comes to backpacking tents, we are seeing more and more seamless technology, ever-lighter materials allowing dual-skin tents in slimmer packages, and a focus on liveability and enjoyment from leading brands such as MSR, Vaude and Wild Country. Camping out is cool again – and clearly it’s okay to enjoy being where you get to, as well as being able to get there with ease. TERRA NOVA / LASER PULSE ULTRA 1 Terra Nova’s Laser range has consistently innovated ever-lighter within its class, and the technology employed has filtered down over the years into other, more affordable products. The Laser Pulse is certainly a statement – a translucent flysheet (dye costs grams, see?), true double-skin useability and a pack size comparable to a big courgette!…

JACK WOLFSKIN / LIGHTHOUSE III RT Light for its size, this spacious and attractive tent is made from high-strength, low-weight nylon ripstop coated with silicon for exceptional strength, and is designed to be highly stable in wind. It also has excellent ventilation, two doors and sides that rise vertically at first to increase space. Trail tested? Not tested £725 / 3-person / 3680g pack size 40x20cm LIGHTWAVE / G30 TREK XT Lightwave tents are excellent – they should be, for the price – and this one strikes a superb balance between living space, storage, function, weight and longevity. A true 4-season tent, this inner-pitched first tunnel is deal for weight- conscious backpackers who don’t like compromise. Trail tested? Not tested £575 / 3-person / 3350g / pack size 44x22cm NIGOR…

1 BLACK DIAMOND / STORM This toughie is equipped with a fully waterproof chassis and an impressive 350 lumens of power and 85m range. Ideal for when you’re likely to get (very) wet. On-the-move light adjustment using just one finger tap to the side of the lamp is available, thanks to new PowerTap technology. The storm offers a bright, precise beam for after-dark route-finding, as well as proximity, dimming and red night-vision modes. And, if you turn it off, the Brightness Memory means it will come back on at the same setting. A powerful torch which is great in all conditions. Trail tested? Currently on test £50 / 110g 2 LIFESYSTEMS / INTENSITY 230 LED With its 230 lumens of brightness and seven lighting modes, the water-resistant, rechargeable Intensity offers…

Material Appropriate material choice is vital when choosing a base layer, as each type manages heat and moisture transfer in different ways. As such, matching the correct material to your intended activity can greatly impact performance and enjoyment. Cotton is a bad choice to wear against the skin when hillwalking the UK, as it soaks up water and dries very slowly, leaving you feeling cold and clammy. However it is useful when travelling in warm and dry environments, as the wet fabric held against your skin keeps you cool. Other options are much better suited to the UK. Synthetic materials ‘wick’ moisture very well, but over time bacteria build-up may cause the garment to smell. Many also believe it’s not the most comfortable next to skin. Merino wool is widely…