Innholdsfortegnelse for December 2018 i Trail

Ben Weeks journeys out to the magical island of Rùm and uncovers many of the stories the island is bursting to reveal p26 Twitter @GingerheadBen Sarah Ryan quite literally bottles up an adventure in the Lake District after the weather takes a soggy turn for the worse p34 Twitter @sarah_outside Jeremy Ashcroft visits the crags of Wasdale in an outing to remember a lost generation of Lakeland climbers – and the gift their legacy left us all p46 Tom Bailey ventures onto a paradisal tidal island off Wales and spends a wild night marvelling in a place that could win over any mountain lover p60…

Helly Hansen describes the Verglas as ‘a lightweight shell jacket to be used all year round’, but we think the Norwegian brand is doing the Verglas a disservice. Pull the jacket on and, while by no means heavy, it feels like a tough, solid jacket that will fend off whatever the worst of the weather throws at you. With its 3-layer construction, under-arm venting, and sleek yet practical design, the Verglas appears every bit the dependable hard shell that the British mountains demand. > WE SAY Another bomb-proof product from the Norwegian masters of weather protection.…

In the September issue we poured praise on the retro rucksack that Grivel has created to celebrate its 200th birthday. But our lust for beautiful vintage-styled gear has been piqued once again with this simply gorgeous ice axe, also crafted by the Italian mountain brand to commemorate its second century. Created as a general winter walking tool, it evokes the image of the original 19th century Alpenstock-style ice axes. The ash shaft feels as good as it looks, while the pick has been hot forged for greater strength. Little details such as the embossed logo on the spike and the etched wording on the shaft all add to the impression of quality exuding from the axe, and the leather head cover is the icing on the cake. It’s as much…

As served at… The Woolpack Inn, Eskdale A remote corner of Lakeland is not a place you’d expect to find authentic thin and crispy pizzas. But at the Hardknott Bar & Kitchen in the Woolpack Inn, that’s exactly what’s on the menu. Between noon and 10pm their wood-burning pizza oven is fired up to produce mouth-watering dough-based meals with a distinctly Italian twist. The classics are all there: Margherita, pepperoni, quattro formaggi (four cheese), and Hawaiian (there’s NOTHING wrong with pineapple on a pizza). Plus, you might find some offerings on the specials menu too, such as the Cumbria-meets-Campania fusion, mutton pizza, which is much nicer than it might sound. Aye, buonissimo!…

Send us your 400 words on ‘The Day A Mountain Changed My Life’ and every month we will publish the best. Your story could be one of inspiration, revelation, an epic adventure, or a near-miss! Every published entry will receive a year’s membership to the John Muir Trust (the charity that manages mountains including Helvellyn and Ben Nevis), plus £100 credit to redeem on Mountain Equipment clothing. The author of the best story of the year will win the grand prize of a day of tailored adventure on a John Muir Trust-managed mountain with a Mountain Equipment expert guide, some Mountain Equipment kit and the opportunity to write a full-length feature article for Trail.…

As a result of occupation by Viking settlers, many of Rùm’s place names are heavily influenced by the Old Norse language – not least in its mountains. Dibidil (from diupr dalr) deep valley Ainshval (from àas fjal) hill of the rocky ridge Trollabhal (from troll fjal) troll hill Askival (from askr fjall) ash wood hill Hallival (from hallr fjal) ledge hill Barkeval (from bjarg fjall) precipice hill Ruinsival (from hruna fjall) stone heap hill Orval (from orri fjal) grouse hill…

In his new book Reading The Clouds, Oliver Perkins dedicates a chapter to exploring the truth behind quirky proverbs that have been recited by generations of walkers. “RED SKY AT NIGHT, SHEPHERD’S DELIGHT RED SKY IN THE MORNING, SHEPHERD’S WARNING” This famous proverb first appeared in the Bible, and does have elements of truth to it. For a red sky to occur at night there must be clear skies in the west, with cloud in the east for the setting sun to shine on. This often means the weather will improve through the night as weather systems generally come from the west, pushing clear skies eastwards in time for sunrise in the morning. FACT “NO WEATHER IS ILL, IF THE WIND BE STILL” Lack of wind is a characteristic of…

Leanne Woodall “These are my three hillwalking companions. They never cease to amaze me with how much they love climbing mountains, the little one especially as she is only two and has already climbed over 30 fells. We share adventures, memories and laughs along the way. We encourage each other when we need that push to go further, but most of all we get to spend time together doing something we all love.” Alison Tasker “Lynn Wardle, my sister, is my hillwalking bestie. I’d be lost without her – literally!” David Brice “My good friend Andy is always up for a hike. He’s a great listener and full of encouragement. And he has pulled me up many a hill.” John Heaver “My amazing Liz Moore. Always inspiring, tirelessly photographing and…

Q Can Trail please clarify for me what access land is, and whether there are any times I can’t cross it? Thanks! Josie Fisher, via Facebook Paul says Access land can be crossed without using footpaths, for activities including walking, climbing and fell running. On OS Explorer maps access land in England and Wales is denoted by a yellow-shaded area with a tan-coloured border. It’s not permissible to cycle on access land unless the landowner allows it or there’s a bridle path, local right of access or byway. Neither can you legally wild camp (unless in Scotland) or light fires there. Dogs must be kept on leads no more than two metres long on access land between March 1 and July 31 to protect ground-nesting birds, and must always be…

Q I managed to tear a small hole in my down jacket recently when scrambling on Jack’s Rake. How best can I repair it? Phoebe Watts, Stockport GT says The most important thing is getting a quick fix, as otherwise all your down will pour out of the jacket, which is messy to clean up but also means you are losing insulation. The best option is a strip of humble gaffer tape, the heavy cotton cloth pressure-sensitive tape with strong adhesive and good tensile properties. This stuff works remarkably well and I have pairs of years-old overtrousers where a 10cm strip of gaffer tape has kept them working fine. Wrap a section of gaffer tape around the water bottle in your pack so you always have some to hand. For…

30,000 years ago, the cliffs of the coast here looked out over a vast plain. You could almost have walked to Devon. Here Paeleolithic people followed the herds of whatever animals lived back then. The caves in the limestone gave them shelter. One individual at least was buried in one, along with copious amounts of red ochre. When found back in the Victorian era, so began the legend of the Red Lady of Paviland. Scientists now estimate the remains to be around 33,000 years old, and the red ochre seems to have been an early funeral custom. It’s humbling because, after all, they were homo sapiens, the same species as us and like us in practically every way. Hard to get to, the easiest time is one hour either side…

WEATHER RESISTANCE Soft shell type fabrics that are more wind- and water-resistant and slightly thicker are often used in winter trousers. Some may even have waterproof panels in them. However the more waterproof or wind-resistant the fabric, the less breathable it will be and this can result in a clammy feeling against the skin. So maximum water and wind resistance is not always ideal. You can always throw on a pair of waterproof overtrousers in more extreme weather. DURABILITY For increased durability when scrambling, climbing or mountaineering, look for trousers with knees, seat or ankle abrasion panels. Thicker materials are also often more durable than thinner options. WAIST DESIGN A stretchy waist, either with a belt or the option of adding one, gives all-round adjustability. Some trousers also have a…

Claire Maxted Former editor of Trail Running & Trail writer, Claire’s a mountain pro. Kirstie Shirra Guidebook writer and lover of Scotland’s ‘best small mountains’. Keith Fergus Author of 15 guidebooks to Scotland’s isles and coastline walks. Jamie Rooke This Snowdonia expert works at Pen y Pass and teaches mountain skills. Ronald Turnbull Creator of a whopping 30 guidebooks and 18 unique coast-to-coasts. Robert Hesketh With over 40 published titles, Robert’s heart is in the south-west. Paul Besley Writer, ranger, Mountain Rescue volunteer... and our Peaks guru. Jeremy Ashcroft Trail’s mountaineering editor and a veteran of every classic UK route. BEFORE YOU GO... If you’re likely to encounter snow or ice on your walk you need to take precautions. You MUST have ice axe, crampons and the skills to use…

Distance 12km (7½ miles) Total ascent 750m Time 4 hours Start/finish National Trust car park at New Dungeon Ghyll ( NY294064) Nearest town Ambleside Terrain Mountainous, scrambling, steep slopes, rocky, grassy with a mix of clear and fainter paths Map OS Explorer (1:25,000) OL6, OS Landranger (1:50,000) 90, Harvey BMM (1,40,000) Lake District West Accommodation Ambleside YHA, 0345 371 9620, www.yha.org.uk/hostel/amblesideOld Dungeon Gyhll, 015394 37272, www.odg.co.ukNew Dungeon Ghyll, 01539 437213, www.dungeon-ghyll.co.uk Langdale Bunkhouse, www.greatlangdalebunkhouse.co.uk Public transport Train to Windermere, bus 599 to Grasmere, bus 516 to Dungeon Ghyll Guidebooks Walk the Langdales: Twenty Walks Around and Above Great Langdale, Little, by Bill Birkett Tourist info Ambleside TIC GET THIS ROUTE ON YOUR PHONE! LFTO.COM/TRAILROUTES In association with…

19 km/ 11¾ miles 8 hours Due to easy access from Scotland’s Central Belt, combined with an outstanding array of mountains and walking, it’s no surprise that the Arrochar Alps are incredibly popular. This superb traverse summits one Corbett and two Munros and is perhaps the finest walk in the area. The Cobbler (or Ben Arthur, to give this unique Corbett its Sunday name) is one of Scotland’s most distinctive and distinguished mountains – its triumvirate of peaks unlike anything in the Highlands. Yet to attain its true summit means threading the exposed ‘Eye of the Needle’, a section not necessarily for the faint-hearted. The summits of Beinn Ime and Beinn Narnain are much easier to reach although the Bealach a’ Mhaim, which sits beneath all three mountains, is a…

Distance 12km (7½ miles) Total ascent 1180m Time 6 hours Start/finish Vaynol Arms ( SH606583) Please only park at the pub if you are staying for food or drink. Otherwise, there is a public car park 200m down the road. Nearest town Llanberis Terrain Rough mountain Map OS Explorer (1:25,000) OL17, OS Landranger (1:50,000) 115, Harvey Superwalker (1:25,000) Snowdonia North Accommodation Two campsites in Nant Peris, YHA Pen y Pass up the road and an abundance in Llanberis Public transport Snowdon Sherpa Service from Llanberis, Betws-y-Coed and Beddgelert Guidebook Hillwalking in Wales Volume 2 by Peter Hermon, pb Cicerone Tourist info Llanberis, 01286 870500 Best pub Vaynol Arms, Nant Peris GET THIS ROUTE ON YOUR PHONE! LFTO.COM/TRAILROUTES In association with…

11.8 km/ 7½ miles 4 hours As well as vistas across a large sweep of southern Dartmoor, this route includes high-level views of the deeply eroded Dart Valley and a pleasing variety of moorland, woodland and riverside walking. It starts from 15th century New Bridge, originally built for teams of packhorses bearing Dartmoor tin and wool to Ashburton, then climbs high above the steeply wooded Dart Valley. It runs parallel to the river, via Dr Blackall’s Drive, which the thoughtful doctor built as a carriage drive for his invalid wife so that she could enjoy the views and the constant sound of the river as it rushes and gurgles 200m below. From Mel Tor and Bel Tor Corner a medley of tors ring the horizon, with Rippon Tor, Bonehill Rocks,…

The charming, ancient town of Church Stretton is a beautiful place for a weekend base, especially for those who like their hills grassy, rolling and with a good pub at the bottom. This West Midlands outdoor paradise is crammed full of surprisingly steep peaks, which, when combined, can give an almost Lake District-esque amount of ascent and views. Beautifully swooping, green moorland awaits you from the top of each Shropshire summit. Some are surprisingly craggy, with hidden waterfalls in deep valleys, while others conceal caves to explore. And what trip to this part of the world would be complete without a visit to the incredible Ludlow Castle? One of the finest medieval castles in Britain, it’s only a 30-minute drive or short train journey to the south. ROUTE 10 Caer…

12 km/ 7½ miles 4 hours 1 SO513750 Turn right out of the station (exiting in the direction of the castle), hit the main road (B4361) and turn left. Take the next right to walk down the partly pedestrianised approach to the castle. Pop in for a visit now, or save it until after your walk or the next day. Skirt the castle by heading right on the footpath that encircles it. Branch right around the back to pop out at the road. 2 SO507745 Turn left along the road, then shortly right to cross the river over Dinham Bridge. Then follow the road bending right then left. When another road meets it from behind, look for a footpath heading straight on, steeply up to the next road. Turn left…

It’s easy to see why the Ogwen Valley and Llanberis Pass get all the attention. Not only do they hold all the 3000ft mountains in Wales, but they are also graced with a stellar array of cliffs. You could spend a lifetime of adventure around these two valleys and not get bored. So it might be a bit of a surprise to discover that one of Snowdonia’s greatest scrambles lays outside their influence! Sentries’ Ridge is quite the surprise. A whopper of a ridge at nearly 500m in length, on a host mountain (Mynydd Mawr) of modest height and off the beaten track, it’s alpine in atmosphere and with consistent scrambling from start to finish provides a big day out. The scrambling is consistent with the grade, with no major…

1 Store your water upside down There’s nothing more satisfying than using physics to your practical advantage, and in winter doing this with your water carries with it a certain life-preserving benefit. One problem with the cold weather concerns water freezing, particularly in wind, or on overnight camps. A simple way to get round this – or at least delay the effects – is to carry your water upside down. The reason is, water freezes from the top surface down, with obvious consequences for those trying to drink from the spout of a water bottle. Carry it upside down and the bottom of the bottle becomes the top – meaning you’ve got more of a chance of being able to drink. Failing that, warm up your water before you go…

The saying ‘a boot is worthless if it doesn’t fit’ is not only old, it’s true. A boot could be the highest specification on the planet and have every innovation baked into it, but if it hurts after three miles and renders you incapable of movement after ten, it clearly isn’t the right boot for you and you won’t go near it again. But finding the right fit isn’t simply about boots that don’t fit – it’s about understanding the kind of boots your unique feet need. And critically, if that boot can’t be found straight off the shelf, where to find a solution. And like all great journeys on foot, it just starts with a few steps... STEP 1 MEASUREMENT You may have wide feet, narrow feet, raised arches,…

Waist design A stretchy waist, either with a belt, or with the option to fit a belt, gives all-round adjustability. Some waistbands are lined with soft fabric for more comfort, and others sit higher at the back to prevent cold spots when bending over. Pockets If you want to store anything in the pockets while walking, then a zip is essential to prevent items from escaping. To keep a map or guidebook to hand when not wearing a waterproof or other pocketed jacket, then a large, map-sized thigh pocket is ideal, but few trousers have them. Stretch panels Stretch fabrics are commonly used to improve freedom of movement in the knees and seat. Some trousers are made completely from stretch material for even greater comfort. Durability Heavier fabrics and those…

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 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. 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. Waterproofness Few rucksacks are waterproof because the seams leak, so usually you will need to use a waterproof rucksack liner to keep your gear dry. A…

In Britain, something happened everywhere. Sit down for a biscuit on a rock in England, Wales or Scotland and the chances are, there used to be a druid worshipping site there, some Clan had a castle there, some cattle were hidden there, a scientist came up with a theory there, or you turn round and discover a little plaque informing you that an infamous queen had her head chopped off there (the last one might seem obscure but this genuinely happened to me once just down the road; I had no idea). We live in the most story-rich nation in the world. Compare it to bits of Canada, when quite possibly the last thing to walk there before you was a Tyrannosaur, and you may feel claustrophobic. But here’s the…

Winter’s nearly here. And while some might shudder at the thought of shorter days and colder weather, we reckon there’s plenty to look forward to… Real fires You arrive at the pub after a wet, windy day to be met by the welcoming warmth and light of a log fire. Grab a pint, sit down, warm up and enjoy. Hot flasks Dig out your Thermos! A hot drink on a cold mountainside is one of hillwalking’s great pleasures. Down jackets Very few items of outdoor-wear shout that the wearer is a person of the mountains so much as a down jacket. In summer you’ll look like a sweaty fool. In winter, you’ll look the business. Silent hills Snow deadens sound in the hills for a quieter, more muted atmosphere. And…

GREY HERON One of those birds that even the most ornithologically-challenged among us can identify, the grey heron is large, with a long neck, long legs and wings that resemble a curving letter ‘M’ in flight. Herons feed primarily near water, so are often seen high up in the valleys and glens alongside burns and streams. Their prey is varied, and alongside fish also includes frogs, newts, toads, rodents and worms. I even saw one catch and swallow whole (after a few attempts) a young rabbit! Their call is a harsh ‘kark’. FIELD VOLE The field vole (or short-tailed vole) is dark brown with a blunt face and short tail (obvs). The staple diet of many of our owls and birds of prey, its populations go in four-year cycles of…

READ… 100 OUTSTANDING BRITISH WALKS As a loyal Trail reader, we’re not sure why you’d ever need another source of outdoor adventure inspiration. So, we’re not going to recommend this book of 100 ambles across Britain so much as simply tell you about it. The century of walks, from easy-paced short ones to exhaustive full-day treks, are split across seven UK regions, feature detailed route cards and lovely photography, and it costs £20. So, there you are, now back to Trail … FIND OUT MORE AT www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/shop BOOK TO SEE… ONE WILD NIGHT Mighty power couple Helen and Steve Backshall are hosting a fundraising party with their most high-achieving celebrity friends and they want you on the guest list. Among a plethora of TV and sports stars, explorer Ed…

So now you (sort of) know how to predict the weather, but if you live in Britain you’ll also know that if you aren’t prepared to walk in the rain you’ll probably never go walking at all. That’s where Rohan comes in. Established in 1972 with heritage steeped in alpine and Himalayan exploration, this much-loved British brand makes lightweight and packable gear built to withstand every type of weather. So wherever you’re heading, and whatever you’re heading out into, Rohan has you covered. Vertex Jacket £275 The Vertex is a durable, hard-wearing shell that mixes top wet-weather performance with a stylish, understated design. Made from Rohan’s 3-layer Barricade™ with minimal seams and sealing tape, it’s lightweight, fully waterproof and built to withstand the toughest conditions. Perfect for walking in all…

Ruth Burgess “My little ’un Ellie, who is only 6. She is tackling the #EverestAnywhere challenge with effort, smiles, and always agrees how great it’s been when she sees where she’s walked!! Good for sharing a bag of Haribo too!” Tracey Knowles “My boys, always there in front leading the way, both of them always watching making sure I’m not far behind. My favourite fell has become theirs and now we discover the fells and mountains together. Wouldn’t walk a mile without them both.” Andrea Claire Lewis “My hillwalking bestie has to be my hubby, Matt. He has given me the much-needed support and confidence to tackle my fear of heights and my vertigo head-on. He took me up Tryfan and that was the day I found my confidence and…

Staying warm in winter is easy in principle. You just add loads of extra layers of clothing that trap extra pockets of warm air against the body, right? Wrong! If you just add more layers you end up with a bulk of clothing that limits easy movement and reduces breathability. Then there is the weight of all those layers and also their financial cost. Instead what is needed is just one layer that offers the right amount of insulation in the lightest form, with the most practical design and at the lowest price possible. Great in principle. Enter Thindown, the new form of insulation from Berghaus that is used in the Aonach jacket. During manufacturing down is fused with polyester to create an interlocked stable sheet of Thindown insulation. This…

To compare the benefits of shoes and boots, Trail sent myself, hostel manager Tim Butcher, and outdoor instructor Anna Humphries to the Lake District. Each of us had a pair of shoes and a pair of boots from across the price ranges. We had been using the footwear for a couple of weeks in a range of conditions and on the last day of testing we headed for Great Gable over a variety of different terrains. The walk consisted of road at the start, then a gravel path followed by a man-made pitched path of rock. The walk continued over grass and boggy ground with some boulder hopping across streams. Finally we crossed the rock and scree slopes of the Gable Traverse to Napes Needle. After completing the Grade 2…

...A LOW-COST ALL-ROUNDER? Sprayway Challenger Pant £80 • Men’s 30-40, plus two leg lengths • Women’s 8-18, plus two leg lengths • Weight 396g (size 34) Slightly thicker than others at this price. Leg length options, an elasticated waist with belt loops and a zipped thigh pocket wide enough for an OS map. Ankle has no adjustment. 68% ...A LOW PRICE AND A ZIPPED CALF? Mtn Equipment Ibex Pant £85 • Men’s 28-38, plus three leg lengths • Women’s 8-16 plus three leg lengths (Chamois) • Weight 453g (size L) One of the best at this price, with a bellows-zipped calf, superb belted waist and four front zipped pockets. Shame one of the thigh pockets isn’t larger for maps or books. 72% ...BUDGET WEATHER RESISTANCE? Regatta Mountain Trouser £90 •…

Trail has partnered with Ordnance Survey's OS Maps to bring you the ultimate interactive routes experience. Subscribers to Trail get free access to OS Maps, where you can view and print 1:50,000 and 1:25,000 OS maps at no extra cost, plan your own walks and view this month's routes online. In addition, the free OS Maps navigation app for smartphones and tablets turns this online tool into a powerful navigation aid. Subscribers can upload their own routes, download the routes from the magazine and browse more than 1000 more from previous issues. See page 66 for details of how to subscribe, or visit www.LFTO.com/routes…

13 km/ 8 miles 5½ hours Glamaig and its neighbours form the Red Hills, or Red Cuillin, of Skye with their granite slopes appearing to shine red in the right conditions. While they may be smaller than their darker, more famous Cuillin neighbours, the Red Cuillin are definitely not without their own charms and challenges. Slap bang at the bottom of Glamaig is the Sligachan Hotel, an institution of Skye and the mountaineering world more generally. Since opening its doors in 1830, walkers and climbers have flocked to its bar, which latterly even has its own brewery. This definitely provides an incentive to finish the route quickly, but some seem to have taken this to extremes. In 1899, Harkabir Thapa, a Gurka visiting Skye decided to run up and down…

Distance 19km (11¾ miles) Total ascent 1497m Time 8 hours Start/finish Succoth ( NN295049) Nearest town Arrochar Terrain Clear paths mostly, but path to Beinn Ime can be sketchy or non-existent. Beinn Ime can be wet and boggy, as can the Bealach a’ Mhaim. There are steep ascents/descents, and reaching the true summit of The Cobbler means traversing a very exposed ledge Map OS Explorer (1:25,000) 39, OS Landranger (1:50,000) 56, Harvey Superwalker (1:25,000) Arrochar Alps Accommodation Village Inn, Arrochar, 01301 702279, www.classicinns.co.uk/villageinnarrochar Rowantree Cottage B+B, 01301 702882, www.rowantreecottage.com Glen Loin Campsite, 07810 194259 Public transport 926/976 from Glasgow, Oban and Campbelltown to Succoth Guidebook 60 Walks: Loch Lomond & The Trossachs Vol 1 – West by Tom Prentice Tourist info Balloch TIC, 01389 753533 Best pub Ben Arthur’s…

19 km/ 12 miles 7½ hours Winter weather can be a bit... iffy. But when sleet rages sideways in the wind, Borrowdale offers treetrunk shelter to soften the blast. Fortify yourself with a hot chocolate at the youth hostel, pull on the waterproof trousers, then brave the worst of winter up on Dale Head. If it’s all too nasty, you can escape afterwards into Newlands (see point 6 on the route map). But this routeline assumes the wind is in the west, so there’s some soft snow to foot-plough down all the way to Dalehead Tarn, and shallower snow or even none at all along the lower-level ridgeline of High Spy. And if winter afternoon should flower into a golden winter evening, where else to be but Cat Bells? Snow…

Distance 11.8km (7½ miles) Total ascent 300m Time 4 hours Start/finish New Bridge, part way between Ashburton and Dartmeet ( SX711709) Nearest town Ashburton Terrain Footpaths, tracks and quiet lanes. One steep ascent, two steep descents Map OS Explorer (1:25,000) OL28, OS Landrangers (1:50,000) 191 or 202, Harvey BMM (1:40,000) Dartmoor Accommodation Lowertown Farm B&B, 01364 631034, www.lowertownfarmdartmoor.co.uk Cockingford Farm campsite, 01364 621258, Gages Mill Guest House, 01364 652391, www.gagesmill.co.uk Public transport None to start Guidebook Dartmoor Pub Walks, by Robert Hesketh Tourist info Ashburton Information Centre, 01364 653426 Best pub Tavistock Inn (point 8), 01364 631251 GET THIS ROUTE ON YOUR PHONE! LFTO.COM/TRAILROUTES In association with…

25 km/ 15½ miles 10 hours 1 SK152594 From Waterloo Inn walk east along Main Street and cross the A515 to take the footpath left of the house in front of you, east across fields to the High Peak Trail above Upperhouse Farm. 2 SK182591 Take the trail left and follow to Friden brickworks and leave the trail left just before by descending left down into the car park and the road. Go right along the road until you reach the entrance to Long Dale on the second bend. Go right to enter the dale and follow the footpath along the edge of woodland on the left, keeping on the path as it rises uphill where the wood ends. Follow a wall above the dale until you reach a metal…

Climbing all 82 4000m peaks in the Alps just seemed like the next logical thing to do. Living in the Chamonix area means adventure is right next door. No travel, no flights involved, no lifts taken (I always started from down the valley floor to the summit). Sharing the mountains with really good friends. Using different skills and toys – skis in the winter, alpinism in summer and paragliding every time it was possible. It’s taken me a year and a half to complete all 82, although heavy snowfall prevented any ascents for six months this winter. Almost every peak was a wonderful story in itself, but I was not expecting to finish this year. Conditions and weather had been bad all summer and I had decided to let go…

We were impressed by Lowe Alpine’s new Altus packs (£125-£155) when we saw them previewed earlier this year. Now outdoor clothing and equipment specialist Ellis Brigham has pulled a coup and will be the exclusive retailer of the new range – which includes 32l, 42:47l and 52:57l capacities in men’s, and 30l, 40:45l and 50:55l in women’s – until spring next year. Each bag is available in a choice of three colours and Ellis Brigham will be stocking the full line-up of sizes and shades. > www.ellis-brigham.com…

Whuissh? Schhwuff? Shkiishh? It’s impossible to onomatopoeically recreate the sounds engulfing my head as I sweep inexorably towards the gaping maws of the quarry waiting greedily to swallow me whole. It was over. If you know your Norse mythology, this was Ragnarok and I was leading the collapse into Ginnungagap... Three of us had chosen a frigid morning one February to climb Coniston Old Man. We talkatively strolled to Crowberry Haws before separating – my companions following the path westward to the summit while I headed for Low Water Beck, my first solo scramble at Grade 3S. The snowline was considerably lower than expected and the route frostily greeted me with rime-coated rock. Never one to back down easily, I pressed ahead and, after a tense and trepidatious ascent, reached…

On our second night on Rum, Trail stayed at the BBQ Bothy near Kinloch. This octagonal wooden hut is situated on the edge of the campsite overlooking the loch near the old pier. It features a chimneyed BBQ for a warm (and midge-free) evening whatever the weather, and sleeping platforms with luxurious reindeer hides for comfort. It costs £50 per night for as many people as you can fit inside – the cabin sleeps four and can seat 20. • For more info, phone 01687 460328 or visit www.isleofrum.com…

We live in the best country in the world for the outdoors. And we have the best weather for it. No, really: think about it. In the UK nothing is more than a long day’s drive from anywhere else. In America you can spend days driving across a landscape that never changes. In Australia, many, many days. Here you can drive from the Cornish coast to the Highlands, or the moors to the beach, the fens to the Western Isles – and nothing is too far from anything else. Which brings me on to the second reason the UK is so good: variety. We’ve got it all here. No other country packs so much into so little. Find me another nation with the history and variety the UK has, where…

Sun, sandals and snow in the Spanish Sierra Nevada ■ I found myself nearing the snowline at the summit of Mulhacen, the highest peak in the Spanish Sierra Nevada, wearing suede sandals from Hobbs, flimsy shorts and a Fairport Convention T-shirt. The kitted-up- to-the-nines Germans and Italians I passed en route looked stunned and horrified. It’s fair to say I hadn’t intended to climb the highest mountain in Spain that day – but it was a pleasant day, so I just kept going. I reached the iron cross at the top, had a look around and came down again, through quite deep snow and ice. Fortunately this isn’t a tale of unexpected storms – just ruined sandals and an undeserved reputation for British resolve. Verity Hancock Soggy family stroll ■…

“My hill bestie has got to be my dog, Holly. Not only did she get me back into the mountains again and always keeps me focused, this year she has been with me for all seven of my #EverestAnywhere completions so far, which has taken her to 55 Snowdons, 66 Cadair summits, all the Nationals, Welsh 3000s, and she’s only 15 away from completing all mountains in Wales over 2000ft! Not bad for a wee beastie...” Holly’s our favourite entry (although we love them all), winning a rucksack and some treats for man and dog, but who is yours?…

Q What’s the use of the heel ledge on my winter walking boots? Nic Sparks, Nottingham Trail says Some 4-season boots, B2- or B3-rated, may feature a protruding shelf or ledge on the heel. This ledge makes the boots crampon-compatible as it allows C2- and C3-rated crampons, with heel clip bindings, to be securely fitted to them. These types of crampons are generally easier, quicker and more versatile to fit than strap-on crampons, which is important in very cold conditions.…

Hi-Tec Wild-Fire Low i WP £70 TESTER Graham Thompson • Material Upper suede and synthetic mesh, Dri-Tec waterproof lining • Sole M-D Traction sole • Men’s 6-13 • Women’s 3-8 • Weight 1202g (size 11) On paper, this lower-priced shoe has all the basic features needed for walking outdoors: a waterproof lining, some reinforcement in the toe box and heel cup, and an external synthetic toe cap and heel cup to protect these areas from abrasion. Underfoot there are some quite aggressive sole lugs, but you don’t get a substantial heel breast for added traction. Once on, this did not provide the closeness of fit of other shoes either. On rocky paths it was noticeable how little stiffness there was in the forefoot of the sole, as jagged rocks easily…

You won’t find a more classic walker’s pub than The Bulls Head in the Peak District’s village of Monyash. With traditional décor, a cosy log fire and, most impressively, serving huge tasty portions for evening meals, you won’t be disappointed with your post-walk refreshments here! There’s a welcoming atmosphere, a good range of ales and lagers, and dogs are welcome in the bar area. Children are also well catered for, with a large garden and a play park at the rear. www.thebullsheadmonyash.co.uk…

12 km/ 7½ miles 4 hours You’ll deserve double pub action after this testing scramble up Jack’s Rake on Pavey Ark. This Grade 1 scramble is popular, with plenty of secure hand and footholds and only one exposed side. However, if you don’t fancy it (or if you’re starting the pub crawl early) not a problem – there are two paths that avoid it which I’ll point out in the route description. Make your choice on the day depending on the weather, time and your party’s experience level. After this exhilarating climb with great views of Stickle Tarn below, Harrison Stickle and Pike of Stickle await your bootsteps to the south-west. It’s a short, grassy walk across the top of Pavey Ark to your first pike. From the top of…

Distance 13km (8 miles) Total ascent 1300m Time 5½ hours Start/finish NG487298 Nearest town Broadford Terrain Boggy in places on approach, the peaks are characterised by very steep scree slopes Map OS Explorer (1:25,000) 411, OS Landranger (1:50,000) 32 Accommodation The Sligachan Hotel has rooms, bunkhouse and camping, 01478 650204, www.sligachan.co.ukGlenbrittle Campsite is five miles away on the west coast, 01470 521206, www.dunvegancastle.com YHA Glenbrittle, 01478 640278, www.hostellingscotland.org.uk Old Inn at Carbost has rooms and a bunkhouse, 01478 640205, www.theoldinnskye.co.uk Also hotels and B&Bs in Broadford Public transport Buses run to Sligachan from Armadale, Portree and the Skye Bridge. 0871 200 22 33, www.rapsons.com Guidebooks Scotland’s Best Small Mountains by K Shirra Tourist info www.visitscotland.com Best pub Sligachan Hotel, with Cuillin real ales brewed on site GET THIS…

12 km/ 7½ miles 6 hours If your mountain walks are just an elaborate excuse to visit some of the more characterful of our drinking establishments, then this is the walk for you! The Vaynol Arms in Nant Peris is a classic Snowdonian post-walk destination. The walls are adorned with interesting artifacts and the pool room is a treat for those with an interest in Mountain Rescue. Not only will you get fine food and drink, but it also happens to be nestled snugly between Snowdon and the Glyderau mountains, right at the foot of the Llanberis Pass. You couldn’t ask for a better location. However, there’s a but – you have to earn your pint with a quick walk over some big mountains. Elidir Fawr and Y Garn to…

Distance 19km (12 miles) Total ascent 1000m Time 7½ hours Start/finish Parking bays just south of Grange, Borrowdale ( NY256176) Nearest town Keswick Terrain Valley and hill paths. This descent off Dale Head should be avoided in whiteout conditions – tricky navigation and possible cornices to left Map OS Explorer (1:25,000) OL4, OS Landranger (1:50,000) 89 or 90, Harvey Superwalker (1:25,000) Lake District North Accommodation Borrowdale YHA at Rosthwaite, 0345 371 9624, www.yha.org.ukDerwentwater Independent Hostel, 017687 77246, www.derwentwater.org Public transport Borrowdale bus 79 from Keswick only runs Easter to October timetables, 0871 200 22 33, www.traveline.info Guidebook The North Western Fells by Alfred Wainwright Tourist info Keswick Information Centre, 0845 901 0845, www.lakedistrict.gov.uk Best pub Langstrath Inn at Stonethwaite – but it closes from Dec 4th until Feb. Scafell…

Spend three days of leisurely walking across the White Peak. Each day a walk takes you through some of the most spectacular countryside, passing by a host of significant historical sites. Added to this is the presence of country pubs at which to stop off en route, staying close by the last at the end of the day’s walking. All the pubs offer food and a great selection of beer. What’s not to like? ROUTE 7 Birchover to Biggin ROUTE 8 Biggin to Monyash ROUTE 9 Monyash to Birchover TRANSPORT Car: Use sat nav postcode DE4 2BL. Bus or Train: www.derbyshire.gov.uk/transport_roads/public_transport/timetables/default.asp?VD=buses PUBS AND GRUB There are numerous pubs, cafés, takeaways and restaurants at Birchover, Bonsall, Aldwark, Biggin, Youlgreave, Monyash, Sheldon, Ashford in the Water, Bakewell, Stanton in the Peak. ACCOMMODATION…

14 km/ 9 miles 4 hours 1 SO455935 Exit the station towards the town centre this time, turning left on Sandford Avenue (B4371). Go straight on at the crossroads and follow the road as it starts climbing gradually at first, then more steeply. When the houses end, take the right-hand fork to stay on the Jack Mytton Way as it contours Burway Hill into Carding Mill Valley with the river on your right. 2 SO442946 Cross the river at a footbridge and continue up Carding Mill Valley, passing the path to the reservoir to reach a fork in the river. Here, cross the main river then turn left to walk up Lightspout Hollow for a chance to see the very pretty 4m Lightspout Waterfall on your left, across the valley.…

Strenuousness Navigation Technicality Trail 100s Munros Distance 12.5km (7.7 miles) Total ascent 1735m Time 7 hours Start/finish A82 car park ( NN168569) Nearest town Fort William Terrain Steep craggy glen, hanging corries, steep arêtes, rocky summits, exposed cols, high mountain ridge and steep corrie head wall Maps OS Explorer (1:25,000) 384, OS Landranger (1:50,000) 41, Harvey Superwalker (1:25,000) Glen Coe, BMM Ben Nevis & Glen Coe (1:40,000) Accommodation SYHA Glencoe, 01855 811 219, www.hostellingscotland.org.uk Red Squirrel Campsite, 01855 811 256, www.redsquirrelcampsite. co.uk Glencoe Camping and Caravan Club Site, 01855 811397, www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk Clachaig Inn has a rooms and lodges, 01855 811 252, www.clachaig.com Tourist information Ballachulish Visitor Centre, 01855 811 866, www.glencoetourism.co.uk Transport Trains and buses from Fort William, Bridge of Orchy or Glasgow. Buses, 0871 200 2233 National Rail Enquiries,…

Brrrrrrr! Winter’s coming – who’s excited? We are, we are! There is something awfully nice about knowing you’re covered. The feel of a new piece of kit, the reassuringly robust crackle, the way water just beads off the fabric like a pretty little galaxy on it. The knowledge that you can pull all the drawcords tight and withstand anything. The ‘chock’ of crampons biting into crunchy ice, giving you grip where there is none, making you feel like you can do everything, go anywhere. That’s why we love kit. This guide features the best of the gear for colder weather that has slid through team Trail’s expert mitts over the last 12 months – and a good deal that’s just landed on our radar too. In here you’ll find ‘Best…

Uppers Stiff uppers are better for rocky ground and winter use, and allow crampon straps to be comfortably fitted. Softer uppers are more comfortable and so are best for valley walking where less support and protection is required than on rocky mountains. Outsole For winter walking, look for grooves that are spaced at a distance of at least twice the thickness of a pound coin. Lug depths less than this are ideal for hill and valley walking. But if the lugs are less than the depth of a single coin, they won’t give much grip in mud or on grass, and they’ll also wear down quickly on harder surfaces. The heel breast (the cutaway section between forefoot and heel) should be three times the thickness of a pound coin for…

Batteries Most headtorches run on AA or AAA batteries, but some utilise a rechargeable battery. Consider how easy it will be to change the batteries, bearing in mind you may have to do this in the dark with cold or wet hands and away from a convenient electrical supply to recharge them. Tilting head So you can direct the beam of light, say to the ground, just ahead of you or to the tent guy line you are adjusting, it is important to be able to tilt the head down a little. This needs to be easily adjustable, but not so loose and floppy that it fails to stay in place once it’s set. Light output A headtorch’s light output is measured in lumens. An output of around 80-100 lumens…

1 Inner sock The next-to-the-skin inner sock is made from up to 60% merino wool, which is renowned for its anti-bacterial and anti-odour properties. It works together with wicking synthetic fibres to deliver a stable temperature and move moisture from the skin’s surface. The lining features a terry loop underfoot cushion that extends around both the toes and over the heel to ensure comfortable feet in wet conditions. 2 HydroTech membrane This waterproof, breathable, windproof and stretchy membrane sits at the heart of the StormSock. Bridgedale is confident that, after a three-year rigorous testing period, it can guarantee the minimum specifications for the membrane. Moisture permeability: >12,000mg/m*m/24h Hydrostatic head: >8000mm 3 Outer sock The nylon outer protects the sock against abrasion from footwear. Lycra provides excellent stretch to ensure the…