Innholdsfortegnelse for May 2019 i Trail

For many people reading this magazine, simply setting foot on a hill or mountain is adventure enough. The feel of a rocky trail beneath your boots, the call of a circling raptor above, the silence of a secluded valley, and the view from a hard-earned summit usually do the job for me. But then there are those days where I crave a little more. More rock, more exposure, more adrenaline, more adventure. So we sat down and asked ourselves, what are the most adventurous activities that UK hillwalkers can do beyond actually hillwalking? Searching for the answers was lots of fun, leading us from Snowdonian scrambles to Scottish bikepacking trails, and from Lakeland summit camps to the ladders and cables of a homegrown via ferrata route. There are still plenty…

My Mountain Rescue career started when I got a lift up to Ogwen for the weekend. I was invited to go out on a rescue if a call came in, which resulted in me spending all night out on the east face of Tryfan in near whiteout conditions, helping to move a hypothermic casualty down in a stretcher. The team was great fun, and that part of it has continued to be a really important part of Mountain Rescue. It is surprising just how much team members give on a voluntary basis too. Being in Mountain Rescue has brilliant highs when rescues go well, but also deeply sad moments when recovering bodies. To be able to help others on the mountains and play a role in our communities is a…

CLIMB CAT BELLS WITH TRAIL! We’re organising a group walk up Cat Bells on Sunday 19 May for supporters of our Mountains for the Mind campaign, which starts from the Festival Village. Go to the ‘Events’ tab in the Mountains for the Mind Facebook group for full details on how to sign up. When is it? The Trail Gear Sale takes place on Saturday 18 May and will be split into two parts, with outdoor clothing up for grabs in the morning and equipment in the afternoon. We’ll announce the official times on Facebook and Twitter closer to the date of the festival. Where is it? The sale is held in the Keswick Mountain Festival village at Crow Park in Keswick, in a large tent next to the Trail magazine…

On Wikipedia you will learn the Scottish mountain A’ Mhaighdean is ‘most easily accessible from Poolewe’. When I read this, I realised why my university lecturer so insistently banned citations from this online – and publicly editable – encyclopedia. Because, without a sinew of doubt, I’m sure whoever wrote that particular entry has never accessed A’ Mhaighdean from Poolewe in their life. Buried deep within Fisherfield Forest in the north-west Highlands, A’ Mhaighdean (pronounced ‘uh-vay-jian’) is widely regarded as Scotland’s most remote Munro. From the mountain’s 967m summit, it is 8 miles to the village of Kinlochewe, 9½ miles south of Dundonnell, while Poolewe lies 10 miles to the west – and that’s as the crow flies. A single-day attempt at climbing A’ Mhaighdean from Poolewe would equate to a…

It should come as no surprise that the majority of near-to-nowhere mountains with monster walk-ins are located in the Scottish Highlands. Bagging these peaks in a single day on foot is a devilish prospect that can only be vaguely realistic on long summer days. Munros such as Ben Alder (central Highlands), Seana Bhraigh, Lurg Mhor (both in the north-west Highlands) and Beinn Dearg (Cairngorms) are very remote and therefore make ideal candidates for bikepacking adventures. Plus, like A’ Mhaighdean, they all have the added bonus of a bothy in proximity to the peak.…

If you feel it, do it! That’s the mantra that increasingly runs through my thought processes these days. More often than not, especially in the mountains, where it can be all too easy to find a reason not to do something, listening to your intuition can get you places and give you moments that will be there, bright and clear in the memory, forever. The late February weather forecast was record-breakingly good. I’d planned a night out in a Lake District cave, but I wasn’t feeling it. There’s a time and place for living in a hole, and this wasn’t it. With clear sky forecast all night and only the lightest of breezes, there was only one thing for it – a summit bivvy. Time was short, so I decided…

Vertical Descents Based in Kinlochleven near Fort William and Glencoe, Vertical Descents’ guided via ferrata climbs beside and above the The Grey Mare’s Tail – Scotland’s third highest waterfall. verticaldescents.com How Stean Gorge Set in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, this course of cables, ladders and beams takes visitors on a high wire adventure above gushing water through the limestone ravine of How Stean Gorge. howstean.co.uk…

Ariya “This is Ariya on the second year of our family #EverestAnywhere challenge. We’ve added another 400m to our 2019 total around Llyn Idwal in Snowdonia. We didn’t reach any peaks as the winds were blowing 50mph at times. Still had an amazing walk and some fun off-track exploring though.” Milo & Pearl “We’re attempting #EverestAnywhere with our children, Milo (6) and Pearl (3). We’ve climbed 1000m so far and both are loving the challenge. Here they are pictured on Ingleton Falls trail. The kids see each hike as a new adventure. It provides us with uninterrupted quality family time... and it costs nothing to grab your boots and get outdoors!” Theo & Esther “Absolutely glorious weekend in the Lakes, with the two little ones Theo and Esther in tow.…

Q I’ve heard ‘attack points’ are useful for mountain navigation. But what are they? Clint Mayhew, Rotherham Paul says: Navigating to a destination is usually split into a series of legs from a known point to an attack point, and repeat. An attack point is a feature along your route that is easy to find, distinctive and ideally unique in your local area, so you can be certain of your position. An attack point can be a stream junction, wall junction, sheepfold, trig point or highest point, or even a clear change in direction of a stream, wall or path. You may not always have the luxury of an unmissable attack point in a handy straight line on your route, and you may have to pick one slightly to one…

■ Material 2mm leather, Gore-Tex waterproof lining ■ Sole Vibram Energy ■ Men’s 41-48 ■ Women’s 36-42 ■ Weight 1406g (size 46 pair) IT'S GOOD This is the latest version of the popular Terra, a boot that manages a very respectable weight given its leather construction while still managing to pack in a great set of features and performance benefits. The leather upper sports a stitching pattern that helps to maintain durability by being carefully positioned away from flex points. The toe box and heel cup are both well stiffened, while the ankle cuff is comfortably padded with a perforated lining to allow airflow. The sole unit has a studded layout of lugs, so they are widely spaced and quite small in size, which is great on wet grass and…

Hi-Tec Ravine Waterproof £100 TESTER Graham Thompson ■ Material 2.2mm thick oiled nubuck leather, Dri-Tec waterproof lining ■ Sole Hi-Tec rubber ■ Men’s 7-13 ■ Women’s 4-8 ■ Weight 1570g (size 11 pair) This low-priced boot has everything many hillwalkers will ask for. The upper is nice and thick, making it supportive, protective and durable. The ankle cuff is softly padded, and there is very little stitching or lace eyelets in the flex point of the forefoot, to ensure a smooth flex and increased durability. The toe box, heel cup and sole unit are well stiffened for general use too – something boots at this price often lack. Underfoot the deep lugs are quite wide to help with durability. However they don’t dig into mud as well as more studded…

LIGHTWEIGHT FLIP-FLOPS Hi-TecMen’s Shadow Thong £15 ■ Men’s sizes 6-13 ■ Women’s sizes n/a ■ Weight 340g (size 11 pair) hi-tec.co.uk These flip-flops are light in weight and light in cash, and as they pack down so small they are ideal for stashing in a rucksack for some much needed post-walk relaxation. Made with synthetic materials, they are fast to dry when wet and the rubber sole offers plenty of cushioning. But they aren’t good for walking more than a few steps along the trail, as your foot isn’t held securely. Also not everyone likes the feeling between their toes. CUSHIONED & GRIPPY ColumbiaSantiam 3 Strap Sandal £70 Santiam 2 Strap Sandal £65 ■ Men’s sizes 6-14 (Santiam 3) ■ Women’s sizes 3-10 (Santiam 2) ■ Weight 754g (size 11…

Steve Goodier Author of 7 walking guidebooks, Steve loves the UK hills. Claire Maxted Former editor of Trail Running & Trail writer, Claire’s a mountain pro. Chiz Dakin Award-winning writer, photographer, film-maker, and vvid traveller. Emily Woodhouse Mountain leader, intrepid adventurer and writer, Emily aims to inspire! Jonathan Cook Has hiked and climbed all over, but his passion for the Lakes remains strong. James Forrest Former newspaper journalist turned adventure travel writer. Ben Weeks Mountain leader, scrambling expert and Trail features writer. Tom Bailey Trail photographer with decades of experience in the UK mountains. 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 every…

22.5 km/ 14 miles 8-9 hours Just 14 miles (22.5km) of walking around the beautiful Mosedale valley will deliver a delightful eight Wainwrights. And starting and ending from the remote Wasdale Head Inn, the birthplace of British climbing, park early enough below Yewbarrow and you’ll even have time to get round before the famous Inn stops serving hot food at 9pm! Pace yourself up the first steep haul onto Yewbarrow, then enjoy a rocky, slightly scrambly section to Red Pike, a nice steady climb to Scoat Fell, a quick out-and-back grab for Haycock, and then linger a little on the castle-like turret of Steeple for stupendous views of Ennerdale beyond. The good thing about this monster Wainwright-bagging route is that you can descend straight back to the Mosedale valley along…

Distance 19km (12 miles) Total ascent 1234m Time 7 hours Start/finish Large parking area south of Braithwaite ( NY232217) Nearest town Keswick Terrain Lots of steep ups and downs and some easy scrambling in places. The ascent of the final buttress of Causey Pike requires care, paths and tracks well defined Maps OS Explorer OL4 (1:25,000), Harvey Superwalker (1:25,000) Lake District North Accommodation The Coledale Inn, Braithwaite, 017687 78272, coledale-inn.co.uk Scotgate Campsite, Braithwaite, 017687 78343, scotgate holidaypark.co.uk Public transport Nothing to start.Try keswick.org/ visitor-information/gettingaroundkeswick for buses to Braithwaite Guidebooks A Pictorial Guide To The Lakeland Fells: Book Six, The North Western Fells by Alfred Wainwright, The North-Western Fells (Lakeland Fellranger) by Mark Richards Tourist info Keswick TIC, Moot Hall, 0845 901 0845, keswick.org Best pub The Royal Oak, Braithwaite, 017687…

18 km/ 11 miles 7 hours The mountains around Langdale are some of the most interesting in the Lake District. Visually appealing and full of history, they make a compelling place to walk. For example Pike of Stickle, one of the first peaks on this route, is generally considered to be the site of a Neolithic axe quarry. Its stone axe heads have been found across the UK. I also have a long history (although not quite that long) with this horseshoe around Langdale. For several years I planned to take a group around the whole loop in one go. Every time, for one reason or another, we were obliged to cut short and take the long, slow descent back along the Cumbria Way. It is an ambitious route. Finally…

Distance 14.8km (9¼ miles) Total ascent 906m Time 5½-6 hours Start/finish Howtown pier ( NY443198) Nearest town Penrith Terrain Clear, well-defined and marked paths, occasional boggy bits, in wet conditions care should be taken on rocky sections Map OS Explorer (1:25,000) OL5 Accommodation Patterdale: YHA Patterdale, 0845 371 9337; White Lion, 017684 82214 Glenridding: The Glenridding Hotel 017684 82228. Camping: Waterside House Campsite, near Howtown, 017684 86332 Public transport None (508 bus to Patterdale from Penrith is the nearest) Consider taking an Ullswater steamer to Howtown from Pooley Bridge or Glenridding ullswater-steamers. co.uk/timetable-fares Guidebook A Pictorial Guide to the Lakeland Fells: Book One, The Eastern Fells by A Wainwright Tourist info visitcumbria.com/pen/ ullswater GET THIS ROUTE ON YOUR PHONE! LFTO.COM/ TRAILROUTES In association with…

18.3 km/ 11½ miles 6-7 hours 1 NY379219 From the small parking area at High Row, pass through the gate to enter Matterdale Common. The way ahead is clearly signposted ‘Public Way – Old Coach Road’. Continue forward on the Old Coach Road which starts by following the edge of Cockley Moor Plantation. The track turns sharply left, then right, before heading away from the wooded enclosure. Continue ahead to where the wide bridleway turns right to cross Groove Beck. When the beck is high, use the small footbridge. 2 NY373221 Take the footpath on the left signposted ‘Great Dodd 2½ miles’ and begin the steady climb up across Matterdale Common. Continue heading directly west on the grassy path, which can be boggy at times. On a clear day, Great…

Design The jacket should be designed to work while wearing gloves and a rucksack. Ideally you should be able to pull the cuffs down over the gloves to stop water getting in when walking. But when scrambling it’s best if you can fit gloves over the cuffs. Take your gloves into the shop to make sure you can operate all the drawcords, zips, press studs, stormflaps and pockets with them on. Sizing Some jackets are available in women’s sizes, while others are only available in men’s or unisex sizes, and this is indicated for each jacket. Look for a reasonably long length with good freedom of movement, so that the jacket hem remains still and the cuffs don’t ride up when you move around. Pockets Pockets must be accessible while…

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 in 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 isn’t the most comfortable next to skin. Merino wool is…

Outsole Look for lugs that are well-spaced and deep, so they can provide a good grip without easily clogging with mud or 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 descent. 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 synthetic uppers are lighter and lower in price than leather. Midsole flex Grab the shoe by the toe and…

Waist design A stretchy waist, either with a belt or the option to fit a belt, gives all-round adjustability. Some waistbands are lined with soft fabric for more comfort, while 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 falling out. If you like to keep a map or guidebook to hand when not wearing a waterproof or other pocketed jacket, then a map-sized thigh pocket is ideal, but in truth few trousers have them. Ankle cuff If the ankle area is too wide, it can flap about and potentially collect mud, snag on undergrowth or get torn. Conversely very narrow, close-fitting ankles don’t fit…

[ UP TO 40 LITRES ] 1 OSPREY HIKELITE 26 £80 This pack offers a great combination of features for summer hillwalking. You get a mesh ‘trampoline’-style back system, so the body of the sack is held away from the body for more airflow. There is zipped access to the main compartment and useful compression straps and mesh pockets on the outside. It’s great value for the price. VERDICT A great sack for summer walks with less gear, offering excellent airflow across the back. CAPACITY 26 litres BACK SYSTEM Airspeed MEN’S BACK LENGTHS One (unisex) WOMEN’S BACK LENGTHS n/a WEIGHT 742g 2 LOWE ALPINE AEON 22/ND 20 £85 Released in 2018, this pack has an adjustable back length, which is unusual for its small capacity. The shoulder straps and hipbelt…

ORTLIEB ATRACK 35 £185 The Atrack (an abbreviation of Active Travel Pack) is a totally waterproof rucksack with an IP67 rating; it can withstand being one metre underwater for up to 30 minutes without leaking. It features a sturdy waterproof zip positioned down the centre of the back panel, keeping it secure and protected when worn, and off the ground when the pack is laid down. There’s an adjustable ventilated back system, a padded hipbelt with integrated pockets, four zippered inner pockets, compression straps for load organisation, and a range of optional modular attachment accessories. The truth is, though, that for general hillwalking, a regular daypack is better suited. However, if your adventures include canoeing, kayaking, cycling, mountain biking or even motorcycling, the Atrack is the ideal bag…

Best hill snack? A mix of granola, wine gums and Fruit Pastilles. Weirdest place you’ve slept? In a potato field, when I was 18 and walking across Switzerland – it got dark and we still hadn’t reached the intended camping location. Best post-walk pub? Tyn-y-Coed in Capel Curig. Best UK mountain? Tryfan for its situation, atmosphere, and being able to walk, scramble and climb to the summit. Who’s your hero? Chris Bonington was my early inspiration, but I’ve met many people in Mountain Rescue who are heroes in their own ways. T…

Trail rented Saracen Mantra Trail bikes from Perth-based cycle centre Comrie Croft Bikes, with luggage packs provided by cycling brand Madison. Comrie Croft has a friendly shop stocking everything you need for bikepacking, including clothing, safety gear, bike accessories, padlocks, repair toolkits, energy food and drink, and route advice. You can also simply search for your nearest cycle hire centre – and always pack a bivouac or tent in case your target bothy is already occupied.…

DO’S  WEAR A HELMET Mountain Rescue teams are busy enough. THINK ABOUT GOING ELECTRIC It may feel like cheating, but in rugged terrain I wish I’d had some assistance. PACK SPARE INNER TUBES APLENTY I carried just two and would have liked more for extra peace of mind. BE PREPARED TO HIKE-A-BIKE With the extra weight, even innocuous uphills can force a dismount-and-push. PRACTISE FIXING A PUNCTURED TYRE Don’t wait until you’re on the hill, in rain, surrounded by ravenous midges, to find out it’s a fiddly job. CONSIDER PADDED CYCLING SHORTS Even the softest of saddles will become unforgiving eventually... START SMALL If you’ve never bike-packed try a short route with easy terrain first. Remember that rough or steep ground can be hard work or even impossible to bike!…

EXPED WHITEOUT 30 M £245 This roll-top Alpine sack is made from Dyneema, an extremely strong and abrasion resistant fabric that’s also incredibly lightweight – this 30-litre medium back length model weighs just 695g, yet can carry up to 13kg. exped.com OSPREY AURA AG 65 £190 The unique AntiGravity back system as featured on the Aura (and the men’s Atmos) hugs the hips and spreads the pack’s weight more evenly. This, combined with the suspended mesh back panel, makes even large loads more palatable on longer backpacking trips. ospreyeurope.com FJÄLLRÄVEN BERGTAGEN 38 £240 In addition to the recycled nylon fabric, the Bergtagen features a removable wooden backpack frame. This adaptability makes the rucksack more versatile and, equally importantly, the classic combination of wood, metal…

■ Material Perwanger leather, Gore-Tex waterproof lining ■ Sole Asolo/Vibram ■ Men’s 6-13.5 ■ Women’s 3.5-9 ■ Weight 1244g (size 7 pair) IT'S GOOD The Greenwood sits at the pinnacle of Asolo’s Radiant Hiking range and is designed for trekking with heavier packs when more support, protection and comfort is needed for rougher terrain. The upper is made from quality leather, with a rubber rand at the toe for extra protection. Lacing extends to the toe, and the toe box itself is a neater fit and shape. It almost felt like a sock around my foot, while other boots are more spacious. I also like how effective the locking eyelet is to really pull the boot into my instep. Underfoot the Vibram sole unit has widely-spaced, deep lugs and a…

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 from 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 synthetic uppers are lighter and lower in price than leather and may be more comfortable straight from the box. Some newer synthetic uppers also allow bonding and welding techniques that improve durability and flexibility while reducing weight. Rubber rands may be used to increase durability at the toe or all around the upper. WEIGHT Trail shoes are often chosen in preference to boots because they are lighter. However, the lighter the…

BERGHAUS CHOMBU WATERPROOF JACKET £200 USED BY enamoured and armoured news and features writer Ben Weeks USED FOR one month The first time I slipped into this jacket a couple of things struck me. If I was being critical I’d say that it felt heavier than the fast-and-light Alpine-style hard shells I’m used to (which it is), but it’s probably fairer and more accurate to say instead that it felt more substantial. It’s also longer than many of the current flock of ‘athletic-fit’ jackets, and it’s the first waterproof I’ve worn in a long time with a mesh lining – something I’d assumed was the reserve of cheaper, nastier jackets. But these were just initial thoughts when I put it on in the office. The real test would come on…

22 km/ 13½ miles 8 hours The Coniston Fells offer some of the most ruggedly dramatic walking Lakeland has to offer, and this lengthy route works a wonderful high and dramatic course around them. Coniston Old Man (2633ft/802m) is the best-known top here and is the highest point reached on this outing. For the Wainwright bagger a grand total of nine summits can be ticked off in one go. As well as Coniston Old Man, these are Wetherlam (2502ft/763m), Swirl How (2630ft/802m), Great Carrs (2575ft/785m), Grey Friar (2536ft/773m), Brim Fell (2611ft/796m) and Dow Crag (2555ft/779m) from Alfred Wainwright’s Book Four: The Southern Fells of his Pictorial Guides. And from the often overlooked and neglected The Outlying Fells of Lakeland you can take in Walna Scar (2035ft/620m) and White Maiden (1994ft/608m).…

Distance 22.5km (14 miles) Ascent 1900m Time 8-9 hours Start/finish Car park below Yewbarrow ( NY167068) Nearest town Nether Wasdale Terrain Mountainous, many rocky sections, steep slopes, grassy, clear paths Maps OS Explorer (1:25,000) OL6, OS Landranger (1:50,000) 90, Harvey British Mountain Maps (1:40,000) Lake District West Accommodation Camping and rooms at Wasdale Head Inn 019467 26229, wasdale.com YHA Wasdale Hall, 0345 371 9350, yha.org.uk Public transport Train to Seascale (near Gosforth), then taxi, or Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway then walk over via Burnmoor Tarn Guidebook The Western Fells (Lakeland Fellranger) by Mark Richards Best pub Wasdale Head Inn, wasdale.com GET THIS ROUTE ON YOUR PHONE! LFTO.COM/TRAILROUTES In association with…

15 km/ 9 miles 5½ hours The Newlands Round has always struck me as an odd name. Newlands Hause is well to the west of the route, but the beck flows out of Dale Head, with Keskadale Beck flowing from the Hause. So surely a ‘round’ should be round Hindscarth and Dale Head, excluding Scope Valley and Robinson? But then, there’s that Hause off to the west. Fortunately, the round avoids the Hause and Buttermere Moss – claimed by Wainwright to be “a wide marshy depression from which water cannot escape, except by being carried away in the boots of pedestrians”. Names being what they are, this is a thoroughly worthwhile walk, with fabulous ridgeline views. North are the brooding flanks of Skiddaw and Blencathra, south the towering Fleetwith and…

Distance 18km (11 miles) Total ascent 1400m Time 7 hours Start/finish Car park in front of NT Sticklebarn ( NY294064 ) Nearest town Langdale Terrain On a marked grassy or rocky path all the way, route-finding difficult on the second half of the walk in poor visibility Maps OS Explorer (1:25,000) OL6, OS Landranger (1:50,000) 89, Harvey British Mountain Maps (1:40,000) Lake District Accommodation Great Langdale Bunkhouse, 015394 37725, greatlangdale bunkhouse.co.uk Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel, 015394 37272, odg.co.uk Great Langdale National Trust Campsite, 015394 37668, ntlakescampsites. org.uk Public transport Windermere train station is 8 miles from Great Langdale. Catch 555 or 556 Keswick to Ambleside bus, then change to the 516 bus Guidebook Lake District High Level and Fell Walks by Vivienne Crow Tourist info Windermere TIC, 015394 46499 Best…

To some they are dull, featureless and boring. To others they are a quiet, isolated paradise where you can escape the crowds of Lakeland. Love ’em or hate ’em, the Back O’Skiddaw fells – the rounded, grassy hills to the north (or ‘back of’) Skiddaw – will be on your radar if you’re completing the Wainwrights. Alfred himself felt like ‘the only man on Earth’ enjoying ‘days of absolute freedom’ walking these fells. Hopefully you will have a similar experience. This route ticks off all 10 Wainwrights in the Back O’Skiddaw hills, including a high-level circular of Carrock Fell, High Pike, Knott and Great Calva from Mosedale, a horseshoe of the Uldale Fells, and an ascent of Binsey, a standalone peak with top views. TRANSPORT For trains travel by Virgin…

18.3 km/ 11½ miles 5½-6½ hours 1 NY394160 From the George Starkey Hut at Patterdale head out along the farm track away from the busy A592. Follow the track over the bridge crossing Goldrill Beck to Side Farm. Pass through the farmyard and turn left. The way ahead is clearly marked by a distinctive yellow and black daffodil Ullswater Way marker. 2 NY398162 After 20m go through a wide gate to leave Side Farm and continue on the farm track, which gradually turns into a path, to pass Artist’s Seat on the right. The path now drops down before climbing a rocky brow which culminates in stone steps to reach Silver Point. 3 NY395182 Proceed, right, around the headland past Silver Bay as the well-defined path hugs the shoreline. The…

HIKES OF A LIFETIME The mountain routes you have to walk – hand-picked by Trail THE ISLE OF SKYE Rocky scrambles, silent glens, stunning summits BRITAIN’S GREATEST SCRAMBLES SHARP EDGE: YOUR GUIDE How to tackle Blencathra’s legendary scramble PLUS The Mourne Mountains, New Zealand special, Snowdon with kids & much more! JUNE ISSUE ON SALE 16 May 2019…

1 SPRAYWAY SANTIAGO/ATLANTA RAINPANT £50/£45 These well-priced trousers have a good set of features for the money. The loose lining and 2-layer fabric ensures a good level of comfort, while knee-length side zips make them easier to fit than many trousers around this price. The ankle cuff has a Velcro tab adjuster, but this is a slightly baggier design than some higher-priced options. VERDICT Great trousers for general walking if you don’t want to extend your budget any higher. MATERIAL 2-layer Hydrodry with taffeta lining MEN’S XS-XXXL (Santiago) WOMEN’S 8-20 (Atlanta) WEIGHT 367g (size L) 2 MONTANE ATOMIC PANTS £80 Thigh-length zips set these lightweight overtrousers apart, which means they’re very easy to fit over boots. Press-stud adjustment at the ankle cuff helps to control the fit, the leg shape…

1 RAB NUCLEUS £60 If you don’t need supreme warmth, you could do worse than Rab’s Nucleus jacket. Breathability is good, you get some wind resistance, a stretchy fit, two large zipped pockets accessible while wearing a rucksack – and for an extra £10 you can have a hood. The hem and cuffs are elasticated only, rather than drawcord-adjustable. VERDICT Not the warmest fleece going but a well-priced option if you simply need an additional mid layer. MEN’S SIZES S-XXL WOMEN’S SIZES 8-16 WEIGHT 312g (size 12) 2 MOUNTAIN EQUIPMENT DIABLO £90 Excellent value for money is what you get with the Diablo. This jacket offers year-round warmth – though you might fancy an extra fleece layer in winter – as well as breathability for use under a waterproof jacket,…

NEW FOR 2019 SCARPA MESCALITO MID GTX £220 The Scarpa Mescalito has been extremely popular as an approach shoe that’s also ideal for via ferrata and more technical scrambling. But the trouble with shoes is they don’t support or protect the ankle. So Scarpa has extended its classic shoe into a ‘mid’ design with a short ankle cuff. This, of course, blurs the divide between shoes and boots even more; but if you’re not quite sure if you want a shoe or a boot then a mid may be the preferred option for a ‘best of all worlds’ approach to the mountains. VERDICT A transformation of the classic Scarpa Mescalito shoe into a ‘mid’ adds further options for anyone looking for lightweight technical performance on rock. UPPER 1.8mm suede leather,…

Comfort & fit Rucksacks come in different backlengths – some are a one-size-fits-all design, others, like the Osprey Kyte, 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 ‘PackSizer’ 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. For example Osprey Exos…

Daear Ddu Ridge The east ridge of Moel Siabod is a great scramble where the risks are low, but the rewards are high. The scrambling is easy, route-finding not a problem, and it ends at one of the best viewpoints in Snowdonia – the summit of Moel Siabod, from where the Snowdon massif dominates the panorama. Y Gribin This neighbour to the Seniors starts from Cwm Bochlwyd (just next door to Cwm Idwal) and finishes high on Glyder Fawr, with the immense northern crags of Glyder Fach as its backdrop. The best scrambling is near the top – a great finale to a rewarding ascent. Lliwedd Traverse Although regularly bagged as part of the Snowdon Horseshoe, Lliwedd is a handsome peak that’s a worthy endeavour on its own. An ascent…

There’s a certain science to packing bike luggage. The handlebar pack is best for stowing light, compressible items that require infrequent access, such as a sleeping bag, camping mat, tent and clothing. Overfilling this would hamper handling and steering. Items of a similar bulk should go in the seat pack beneath the saddle to avoid upsetting the bike’s weight distribution. Finally, a bag within the bike’s frame can be stuffed with as much cargo as possible. Things such as inner tubes, repair tools, stove, gas and food will help to keep the bike’s centre of gravity low and allow for optimum stability.…

During the First World War, the Dolomite mountains were torn apart by fighting. Literally. As Italy and Austria fought over the region, summits were exploded for artillery placements, a network of tunnels were bored though the limestone, and a metallic web of cables and ladders were tethered to the peaks to allow easier movement of troops across the difficult terrain. Over a hundred years later, much of this ‘iron way’ still exists, and climbers with a taste for adventure can enjoy these via ferrata routes through the mountains. Mercifully, the fells of the Lake District have been left largely untouched by the ravages of war. But that’s not to say they haven’t got scars of their own. Slate mining has been taking place in the area around the head of…

■ Material Hydrobloc Full Grain Waxed Leather, Gore-Tex waterproof lining ■ Sole Zamberlan Vibram ■ Men’s 40-48 ■ Women’s 36-43 ■ Weight 1804g (size 46.5 pair) IT'S GOOD This superb boot immediately filled me with confidence on the hill, and in dark grey with flashes of red, beautiful stitching and that subtle Italian flag, it looks awesome too. A thick waxed leather upper, Gore-Tex lining and minimal stitching make the Vioz a very durable waterproof boot. The leather is stiffer than other boots and may take a little breaking in, but the quality and durability here is obvious. The Vibram sole and aggressively-styled heel breast give secure grip whether descending on path, rock or wet grass. However, what’s most outstanding is how Zamberlan has brought all of this together with…

LOWER-PRICED GENERAL TRAIL SHOE Regatta Samaris II Low £90 ■ Men’s 6-12 ■ Women’s 3-8 ■ Weight 888g (size 11 pair) The Samaris II Low offers a supportive upper with good stiffness in the toe box and heel cup. Waterproof and durable for forest tracks and trails. The outsole has a good set of lugs for trails. 84% MORE CUSHIONED SHOE FOR LEVEL PATHS Hoka One One Challenger ATR 5 £115 ■ Men’s 40-49 ■ Women’s 36-44 ■ Weight 618g (size 46 pair) This has 50% more cushioning than standard running shoes. The mesh upper isn’t waterproof, and the sole is stiffened but lacks a heel breast, waterproofness or durability for rough terrain. 80% SUPPORTIVE, DURABLE SHOE FOR ROCK Boreal Tempest Low £130 ■ Men’s 6-12 ■ Women’s n/a ■…

Distance 22km (13.5 miles) Total ascent 1356m Time 8 hours Start/finish Pay and display car park by Coniston TIC ( SD303975) Nearest town Ambleside Terrain A very long high-level round with lots of steep ups and downs, plenty of rough going and some easy scrambling in places. Passes through some fairly remote terrain so avoid in mist or bad weather, one or two sections where the paths are a bit vague or don’t exist Map OS Explorer OL6 (1:25,000), Harvey Superwalker (1:25,000) Lake District West Accommodation The Sun Inn, Coniston, 01539 441248, thesuninnconiston.com Coniston Hall Campsite, Coniston, 01539 441223, conistonhallcampsite. wordpress.com Public transport Plenty of buses to and through Coniston, 0871 200 2233, traveline.info and also stagecoachbus.com Guidebooks A Pictorial Guide To The Lakeland Fells: Book Four, The Southern Fells…

19 km/ 12 miles 7 hours The Coledale Valley is not noted as being one of Lakeland’s most picturesque locations, but as Alfred Wainwright pointed out ‘it will be remembered with affection by those who walk around the mountain skyline of its perimeter and by so doing enjoy one of their most rewarding days on the tops’. This route makes a round of the valley’s surrounding higher tops above 2000ft/610m, and in so doing bags you seven Wainwright summits in one long, strenuous outing. The paths are generally good and straightforward to follow, and the route could be undertaken in mist but should be saved for a day of fine, clear weather to get the very best out of the awesome views you get as you follow this enchanted skyline…

Distance 15km (9 miles) Total ascent 1075m Time 5½hrs Start/finish Chapel Bridge car park, Little Town ( NY231194) Nearest town Keswick Terrain Polished scrambly section below Robinson’s summit is a lot more challenging in damp, wet or icy conditions, navigation may be challenging in low visibility but a fenceline acts as a good handrail along the main Robinson to Dale Head ridge Maps OS Explorer (1:25,000) OL4, OS Landranger 90 (1:50,000), Harvey Superwalker (1:25,000) Lake District North Accommodation Little Town Farm B&B, 017687 78353, littletownfarm.co.uk YHA Keswick, 0345 371 9746, yha.org.uk Keswick Camping and Caravanning Club Site, 01768 772392, campingand caravanningclub.co.uk Public transport Bus X4 from Penrith to Keswick, traveline.info 78 bus goes to Grange, but it’s probably a taxi from there or Keswick Guidebook Lake District: High Level and…

14.8 km/ 9¼ miles 5½-6 hours This Grand Tour of Place Fell is not the easiest or fastest way to attain the summit; but, for this reason, it is all the more rewarding. A classic circular walk in the far eastern Lake District beginning at Howtown, the start is best reached via a picturesque ‘steamer’ ride from Glenridding. Initially traversing Hallin Fell’s lower slope, the route passes some pleasant farm dwellings before starting in earnest near the hamlet of Sandwick. After a lung-busting climb up the slippery slopes of Cat Crag, the route explores the grassy summit plateau of Sleet Fell, taking in great views of Ullswater and Hallin Fell. Enjoyable walking now takes you across undulating moorland, inspecting the numerous subsidiary tops to High Dodd. With Place Fell now…

This three-day walk around Ullswater pays homage to Alfred Wainwright, who had a special connection with Ullswater, describing it as “that loveliest of lakes”. Day one takes in six Wainwrights and explores the lesser-known wilds of Matterdale Common. After summiting The Three Dodds in quick succession, the route then climbs Raise, the 12th highest Wainwright, before returning via Sheffield Pike for great views over Ullswater and, at times, the pathless moorland of Hart Side. Days two and three are spent walking The Ullswater Way, a fairly new 20-mile walking route which circumnavigates the lake. The route offers spectacular views from Hallin and Gowbarrow Fells, varied landscape, and the prize of two further Wainwrights. TRANSPORT Virgin Trains operate several long distance rail services to Penrith, virgintrains.co.uk For other trains to Penrith,…

Outdoor gear is getting lighter, more waterproof, better fitting, more durable and more environmentally friendly, and in some cases more competitively priced. So there’s something new for everyone in 2019, no matter what you value most when choosing your kit. New tech Technological developments include the first use of graphene – the world’s lightest, thinnest and strongest material – in outdoor footwear by lightweight footwear specialists Inov-8. Graphene increases durability, while new welding techniques mean bulky and leaking seams may be a feature of the past, thanks to the manufacturing methods used in products such as AKU’s Selvatica shoe. Greener gear New materials and manufacturing methods also mean the environment will be better protected in 2019, with products such as Fjällräven’s Bergtagen 38 pack (pictured right) using a wooden rather…

NEW FOR 2019 MILLET ELEVATION AIRLOFT HOODIE / £150 A UK debut for Polartec Power Fill insulation has earned this Millet hoodie top billing among this year’s insulating layers. The jacket’s synthetic insulation, which contains 80% recycled materials, is constructed via a complex process of melting fibres together. We can’t begin to explain precisely how this ‘fibre matrix’ works, but what we do know is it creates thousands of air-trapping pockets that give this jacket supreme warmth. All this is achieved alongside a soft and flexible fit, durability, low weight, minimal pack size and a great hood. VERDICT An eco-friendly and extremely comfy hooded jacket with innovative synthetic insulation that would suit most hillwalkers’ year-round needs – perfect for summit brews and camp nights. INSULATION Polartec Power Fill synthetic insulation…

1 RAB SALVO £145 This soft shell, top-rated in Trail tests last year, performs at its best in colder weather. The nylon face is robust and will stand up to tough mountain use. The hood, cuffs and hem have good adjustability, which results in great fit and movement. It is a heavier option, so best worn, rather than stowed in a rucksack. VERDICT The ideal choice for cold-weather mountain conditions. MEN’S SIZES S-XXL WOMEN’S SIZES 8-16 WEIGHT 631g (size L) 2 HAGLÖFS BOA HOOD £140 For a hooded option with eco credentials, the Bluesign-approved stretch fabrics used in this soft shell are both durable and weather-resistant. Some warmth is provided by a polyester inner over the durable nylon shell. A drawcord hem keeps out draughts but elastication around the hood…

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. Fit It is the combination of sizing, materials, carefully placed seams and elastication that leads to a close, foot-hugging fit, which smoothly follows the contours of your feet without bagginess. Some socks will fit your feet better than others. We always recommend people try their socks and boots together, as it’s…