tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25802970518408463972024-03-13T20:41:31.169+00:00Outdoor Courses for Scrambling, Climbing, Kayaking & Mountain ActivitiesThe Blog for Kendal Mountaineering Services, Climbing Canoeing, Caving and water sports in The Lake District and Yorkshire Dales.Iain Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11524721777391883236noreply@blogger.comBlogger528125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2580297051840846397.post-57242942018412724622018-04-22T10:13:00.000+01:002018-04-22T10:13:59.724+01:00Ghyll Scrambling in The Lake District. April 10th, 2018.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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On April 10th, we launched into the 2018 Ghyll Scrambling Season with Nucleargraduates.<br />
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This organisation have been returning to us year after year since 2011 for this activity which they use as part of their recruitment programme.<br />
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All of the young people that you see here have been successful in obtaining an apprentice-ship which will see them working for various partner-organisations over the next two years within the UK's Nuclear industry.<br />
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To deliver our input in to the Nucleargraduates programme, Ghyll Scrambling is used as a team-building exercise.<br />
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All of this group had met, for the first time the previous evening; and they will, when they start their apprentice-ships in the Autumn, be working together over the next two years.<br />
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The idea of this activity session is to impel all of the group into an experience where they will have to work together to look after each other - so we dress them up in wet-suits & cagoules, walking boots, helmets & harnesses; and get them to walk up a mountain stream.<br />
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The bed of a mountain steam is an arduous environment - you can see what it looks like in this photo and the group do have to work together to help each other up this wet obstacle course!<br />
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As part of our <a href="https://www.lakesoutdoorexperience.co.uk/activities/ghyll-scrambling">Ghyll Scrambling Sessions in The Lake District</a>, we do like to throw in exciting challenges along the way where possible.<br />
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Waterfall climbing such as can be seen here in this photo is great for adding a bit of extra adrenaline and exhilaration!<br />
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You can see here why we give our clients walking boots for good grip & ankle support, a helmet to and a harness so that we can attach a rope to stop a slip becoming a fall; it's all about your safety first, comfort second; and only really when those two things are covered can you really enjoy all that this wet sport has to offer!<br />
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Our final photo sees the chap in photo three going for it again on our final waterfall of the day. He was one of only about four of this group of ten who wanted to give it a try - but that's fine.<br />
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All of our outdoor activity sessions are about "challenge by choice" that means if you don't want to have a go - that's fine; ad we wont think any the less of you for it.<br />
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Lakes Outdoor Experience want you to have a great outdoor activity session with us in The Lake District every time...our prices are quite reasonable too!<br />
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<a href="https://www.lakesoutdoorexperience.co.uk/enquiries/">Contact us here</a> to book your session, we look forward to working with you.Iain Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11524721777391883236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2580297051840846397.post-66607809459480553192017-05-28T12:26:00.000+01:002017-06-06T07:48:35.318+01:00Guided Scrambling in The Lake District. 24th & 25th May 2017.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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During last weeks exceptionally hot period of weather, Iain's skills as a Mountaineering Instructor were called upon by Robert Wilson from West Sussex who was looking for two days of <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/scrambling-courses/">Guided Scrambling in The Lake District</a> as preparation for a visit to the European Alps to climb the Dufourspitze - the highest point of Mont Rosa - also the second highest summit in The Alps after Mont Blanc.<br />
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On day one of Robert's Guided Scrambling Course in The Lake District, we met at The Sticklebarn Car Park near the New Dungeon Ghyll, where we were able to quickly access our first scramble - Pike How (grade 2).<br />
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Photo one sees Robert as we approached the top of the first buttress of this route. We would scramble on up a further two rocky buttresses before gaining the summit of Pike How - an ideal place to break for lunch, with some spectacular views all around.<br />
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With Robert's objective of achieving the summit of Monte Rosa in mind, Iain's proposal for our next scramble to reach the summit of Harrison Stickle was to attempt a grade 3 scramble - South Central Buttress. A grade 3 scramble is somewhat steeper than a grade 2 route and there is more exposure involved. Robert, however, was quite satisfied that grade 2 was the hardest level at which he wished to be climbing today, so we changed our plan and headed slightly east on to the South East Ridge of Harrison Stickle (photo two) which is given grade 1; however, it is possible to take a line up the steeper rocks to the left of the ridge to bring the grade up to 2.<br />
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Unfortunately, the heat of the day was now making itself felt though it wasn't until the end of the following day that Iain discovered that this had resulted in moisture forming on the lens of his digital camera leading to blurred spots in many photos - such as the one in photo two!<br />
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We reached to summit of Harrison Stickle via the South East Ridge in a little over an hour after following an interesting line weaving through rock bands where Robert was probably on quite a bit of grade 3 ground without actually realising it. He managed fine regardless; and thoroughly enjoyed the experience.<br />
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As we had time for a third scrambling route today, Iain roped Robert down Jack's Rake - the classic (and under-graded, we think!) grade 1 line cutting across the face of Pavey Ark above Stickle Tarn. Photo three sees Robert with Stickle Tarn and the Langdale valley beyond as we started our descent. We passed a couple of climbers mid route who were about to start up a new VS rock climbing line on the upper crags of Pavey Ark and we also passed quite a few people soloing up Jack's Rake intrigued at the fact that we were descending it!<br />
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We were back at the car park just before 5pm and enjoyed pints of cordial and lemonade to cool down - essential after our long hot afternoon; on dry rock in the baking sun.<br />
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For day two of Robert's Guided Scrambling Course in The Lake District, Iain decided to take him to a different area near Coniston, where there are a number of great scrambles allowing one to reach the summit ridge of The Old Man (the highest mountain locally) without going on the tourist track at all!<br />
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We started off by scrambling up The Bell (grade 1) a delightful ridge line rising in a series of buttresses to the summit of the hill of the same name. Again, Iain chose a line that would make the most of the more exciting sections of rock and we soon arrived at the summit (photo four). The great thing about the bell is that it is only a ten minute walk from the Walna Scar car park where we had parked - so more time is spent scrambling and not walking.<br />
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What we usually do after climbing The Bell is to walk around to the foot of Low Water Beck to where another great scrambling route (of the same name) weaves it's way up the watercourse - starting firstly in the bed of the stream before weaving up slabs to the right and then finishing above the stream on the left bank. Low Water Beck, however, is graded at 3 and Robert was adamant that he wished to remain scrambling at grade 2 again today. So this meant we had to miss out our second scramble and go straight for the third intended line - Brim fell Slabs (grade 2) above the hanging tarn of low Water.<br />
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We arrived at Low Water before mid-day when usually, we wouldn't normally arrive here till around 2pm after ascending the afore-mentioned scramble. After some lunch, we started up Brim Fell Slabs (photo five) arriving at the summit at around 2pm.<br />
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Robert was very pleased with his two day Guided Scrambling Course in The Lake District with Iain and reckoned it was just what he needed in way of preparation for his ascent of Monte Rosa. We may well see him again if he has time before his departure to The Alps as he'd like to take that step on to some grade 3 scrambling routes.<br />
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Scrambling is a great way to get to the top of mountains - much more interesting than walking up footpaths. There's a great deal to be said for taking an airy ridge line on steep rock instead!<br />
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<b>Our Guided Scrambling Courses; and indeed - our Scrambling Skills Training Courses in The Lake District cost just £160 per day for one or two persons; and this fee includes the provision of helmets, harnesses; and a mountaineering Instructor with rope and scrambling rack to guide/coach you. You can be assured of a great day out on some great Lake District Rock - so <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/contact/">contact us here</a> to book your Scrambling Course. You won't be disappointed!</b>Iain Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11524721777391883236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2580297051840846397.post-33932601510410391832017-05-28T10:51:00.000+01:002017-05-28T10:51:05.761+01:00National Three Peaks Challenge Events. Guiding on Scafell Pike. Saturday 20th May 2017.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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After returning from working in The Yorkshire Dales, Iain was out again the very next morning - very early in fact, to guide on the Scafell Pike Leg of a National Three peaks Challenge.<br />
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Dave, Tim, Linda and Abi (photo one) were part of a team from Investec Asset Management taking part in this arduous 24 hour challenge. They were part of a much larger group all of whom had started on Ben Nevis the previous afternoon all would be hoping to finish on Snowdon later today.<br />
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Photo one sees the four about 2/3rds of the way up the mountain during our ascent of Scafell. We had started the climb in Wasdale at around 04:00.<br />
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In terms of achieving the objective, only three of this group of four stragglers made it to the summit of Scafell Pike. Dave dropped out not long after photo one was taken.<br />
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Whilst the day had dawned dry & cloudy, the temperature had dropped too and it was very chilly on the summit of Scafell Pike (photo two)<br />
So, we didn't hang around, in fact, we needed to be heading back down straightaway again to get to the bus waiting in Wasdale as we were already late!<br />
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Our final photo from this post about <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/hill-walking/">Guided Fell Walking in The Lake District</a> sees Tim, Linda & Abi during our descent on the upper slopes of Scafell Pike. Way in the distance - through the cloud, one can make out Styhead Tarn - just!<br />
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We eventually made it back to the bus at around 08:30 and for this group, it was straight off on the journey onwards towards their final objective - Snowdon.<br />
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We do hope that all three made it to the summit of Snowdon. Why were they doing this 24 hour challenge? - to raise money for charity of course. For Iain, that was the end of his guiding or the day; and he was very happy to depart for home!<br />
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<b>Kendal Mountaineering Services do not arrange logistics for supporting National Three Peaks Challenges for many reasons. However, if you would like to have a pleasant day of Guided Fell Walking in our beautiful Lake District Mountains - then contact Iain<a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/contact/"> here</a>. You won't be disappointed!</b>Iain Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11524721777391883236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2580297051840846397.post-26553177878242846142017-05-28T10:12:00.000+01:002017-05-28T10:12:16.740+01:00Prince's Trust Residentials in The Yorkshire Dales. May 16th - 19th 2017.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Almost two weeks ago, Iain was working for our friends at Mountain Explorers working as outdoor activities leader for a group of young people from Doncaster who had come away from home for a four day residential experience in the outdoors.<br />
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All have recently signed up to <a href="https://www.princes-trust.org.uk/">The Princes Trust Scheme</a> which is designed to get young people aged 13 - 30 get into jobs, education and training. All of these young people have signed up to the<a href="https://www.princes-trust.org.uk/help-for-young-people/get-job/boost-your-confidence"> Team programme</a> - a 12 week scheme designed to get them into employment or enrolled on a college course within three months.<br />
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A lot of people attending Prince's Trust courses come from difficult backgrounds that may have involved drug taking and abuse of some sort. Most suffer from low morale and self esteem and many may have been in trouble with the law. The good thing is that they were all here because they want to improve their lives and get to a "better place". This willingness to change their lives is a very good start!<br />
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The residential is part of the team programme and takes places early on on the course - in fact this group had only all gotten together for the very first time the previous week.<br />
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When Iain met the group, their residential experience would start with an indoor climbing session at the Harrogate Climbing Centre. After a very enthusiastic session we headed to our accommodation for the duration - Skirfare Bridge Barn in Wharfedale - where we would be based for the next three nights.<br />
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That evening would see us take a stroll along by the River Wharfe after supper (photo one) and then the next morning we walked the length of the Ingleton Waterfalls Walk. In photo two, the group can be seen under the overhang next to Thornton Force.<br />
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The residential experience is all about reacting to challenge; and working together as a team to support and encourage each other. For many, walking along a 3 mile dirt path during the waterfalls walk may well have been more than they'd ever walked in a day before; and what was coming next would be even more challenging!<br />
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Photo three sees the group all "booted & suited up" and ready to go caving. <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/caving-courses/">Caving</a> is great fun and you'll get to see some amazing features underground. Caving is quite strenuous and challenging - especially as you may have to crawl or squeeze through some tight spaces - you don't have to though; as it's meant to be fun. Following some initial reluctance from a few team members to take part, all eleven went underground and had a great time!<br />
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Following the caving session, we returned over the moors to Skirfare Bridge to get showered and cleaned up before eating and then nipping into Skipton to buy a few supplies.<br />
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As part of the residential, the group are expected to work together to cook & prepare evening meals for each other and tidy up afterwards.<br />
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After this we went for a night walk and campfire near Kettlewell (photo four) which was intended as an opportunity for all group members to open up as to where they had come from in their lives, the problems they had faced; and what they wanted to achieve in the future. This was an emotional experience for some and a powerful experience for all in the group.<br />
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On the second; and final full day of this Prince's Trust Residential in The Yorkshire Dales, the group spent the morning trying their hand at Archery (photo five) in the grounds at Skirfare Bridge. George (dressed in grey) is about to fire an arrow hopefully into the centre of the left hand target.<br />
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At the time of this photo George was homeless - not that you'd know, he was such a keen a cheerful chap. Two weeks later, James, the Prince's Trust Group Leader, had found George both a home and a job!<br />
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The final photo from this post about a Prince's Trust Residential in The Yorkshire Dales sees the group later that afternoon at Brimham Rocks following a great rock scrambling session.<br />
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Brimham is famous for it's rock formations - great clusters of grit-stone monoliths rising out of the woodland. These rock formations have be en weathered by wind and rain; and in more recent times, by people scrambling up and down them.<br />
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We spent the whole afternoon at Brimham climbing up and down the rocks, squeezing through tight gaps and tunnels with everyone working together helping & supporting each other. It was a good afternoon.<br />
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After a further final night at Skirfare Bridge Barn, the group departed on Friday morning back to Doncaster. We would like to wish them all the best with their futures.<br />
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<b>If you are interested in trying out any of the activities mentioned in this post - <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/hill-walking/">Guided Walking</a>, Caving, <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/scrambling-courses/">Scrambling</a> or <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/rock-climbing-courses/">Rock Climbing</a> then contact us at Kendal Mountaineering Services <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/contact/">here</a>. We offer all of these activities both here in The Lake District and in The Yorkshire Dales. Caving is done exclusively in The Yorkshire Dales. All activities are great fun and prices start at just £45 per person for a half day (four hour) session. Discounts are applied for children under 16. We look forward to working with you!</b>Iain Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11524721777391883236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2580297051840846397.post-2679880880962631442017-05-27T15:46:00.001+01:002017-05-27T15:47:01.905+01:00Gorge Walking in The Lake District. Wren Gill, Longsleddale. 13th May 2017.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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A few weekends ago, we got a phone-call out of the blue - could we provide a <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/ghyll-scrambling-courses/">ghyll Scrambling Session </a>that day? Iain was doing nothing and so scrambled into action to provide this session for Paul Watts and his daughter Lucy who were up in The Lake District for the weekend camping at Windermere.<br />
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After getting sizings for wetsuits and boots and then dashing off to the kit-store to get equipment, Iain was ready with the Land Rover to meet the pair at Morrisons, Kendal at 2pm that afternoon.<br />
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Photo one sees the pair kitted up and ready to go. We had driven the length of the tarmac road up Longsleddale and then driven the additional mile & a half up the Gatesgarth Pass Road to the start point for the pair's Ghyll Scrambling Session in The Lake District. We'd already had an adventure of sorts but now it was time for the main event!<br />
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Photo two sees Paul hanging on to little Lucy as we made our way upstream from the get-in point. The lower part of the ghyll is fairly steep and there are a number of entertaining little climbs and waterfalls; and also some fairly deep pools too.<br />
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Ghyll Scrambling is all about having fun whilst climbing up waterfalls and swimming through pools. It is also good to work together to help each other as you make your way upstream. Lucy was keen and enthusiastic despite the fact that things were a tad chilly due to the strong southerly breeze blowing up the valley, so we worked hard to keep moving and that did the trick.<br />
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Thank goodness we had all that equipment on to keep us warm - but that's what you can expect to get if you come on a Ghyll Scrambling/Gorge Walking experience in The Lake District with us - every time!<br />
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After the first 500 metres or so, the angle of the stream eases back and it becomes more of a pleasant walk upstream although there are plenty of things to enjoy such as a waterfall you can sit behind and a pool where the flow of the stream comes in at such an angle that it creates a nice friendly whirlpool that kids love.<br />
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A little further on, one is confronted by a long, narrow; and very deep pool - its a swimmer for everyone, but it also allows the opportunity for one to jump off the low cliff (on the right when looking upstream) Paul swam through the pool closely followed by Lucy; and then Lucy had a go at jumping into the pool - not once but twice!<br />
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Above this point is another short gorge; and then another deep pool formed where a huge boulder dams the stream bed. Just above is another low cliff, so this pool can be jumped into too. Photo three sees Paul & Lucy ready to jump, which they did one after the other. Great stuff!<br />
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Our final photo from this post about a family Ghyll Scrambling Session in The Lake District sees Paul & Lucy as they climb up a low waterfall leading into the ravine of Cleft Ghyll. We' been going for a couple of hours now and that chilly wind was starting to have an effect on all three of us.<br />
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We climbed up and around the corner into the narrow rocky cleft (hence the name) to view the deep pool with Wren Gill crashing in through a narrow gap at the back. One can swim the pool and climb up a fixed rope at the back left hand side of the pool and then jump back in from 12 feet above, but we'd all had enough of a soaking now and little Lucy had done really well!<br />
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It was time to get out and go and get warmed up. Even after two hours in the ghyll, we were only 10 minutes walk from the Land Rover and Iain got the pair in shelter in the back and then got the engine running and the heater going. Next, it was cups of Hot Chocolate; and smiles all round!<br />
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<b>Paul & Lucy thoroughly enjoyed their Ghyll Scrambling (also known as Gorge Walking) Session in The Lake District with us. If you want a real exhilarating wet adventure - then this is the sport to do; and this is the time of year to be doing it! Prices start at £45 per person for a minimum of two persons for four hours. The more people you bring, the less you'll pay and family groups will get a discount for under 16's anyway.</b><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/contact/">Contact us</a> at Kendal Mountaineering Services to make your Ghyll Scrambling booking. You definitely won't be disappointed!</b>Iain Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11524721777391883236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2580297051840846397.post-6019354193100748802017-05-27T13:29:00.004+01:002017-05-27T13:29:57.229+01:00Corporate Ghyll Scrambling Sessions in The Lake District. Hause Gill with Nucleargraduates. May 11th 2017<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Its a few weeks ago now, but Iain was back out with our corporate client Nucleargraduates <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/ghyll-scrambling-courses/">Ghyll Scrambling</a> in Borrowdale as part of a team building session for the next intake of successful graduate apprentices.<br />
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We've been working with Nucleargraduates since 2011 providing this activity for them. The fact that we consistently get good feedback from the organisation saying that <i>"people haven't stopped talking about it since!"</i> is a fairly good indication that its use for this purpose works!<br />
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So what is Ghyll Scrambling? Well, it is also known as Gorge Walking and it's really great fun - particularly in the sort of weather we are experiencing at the moment - temperatures in the mid 20's are enough to make most people sweat very easily and whilst it might be nice when it is hot and sunny - is it nice to feel hot, sweaty and sticky? We think you'd probably agree not!<br />
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So a good way to get out and cool down in The Lake District is to book on one of our Ghyll Scrambling/Gorge Walking Sessions - <b>there are a whole range of places to go Ghyll Scrambling or Gorge Walking in The Lake District - Stickle Ghyll in Langdale, Wren Gill in Longsleddale, Glenridding Beck in the Ullswater Valley and Hause Gill, Stoneycroft Gill and Lodore Beck in the Keswick/Borrowdale area.</b><br />
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Let's explain about Ghyll Scrambling/Gorge Walking a little bit more. We've mentioned why it's a good idea in this weather and where you can do it - but what exactly is it?<br />
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All of our photos paint a pretty good picture of the activity. You can see people sat in a pool in photo one getting soaked and people in photo two helping others to get across a deep pool where swimming might be necessary; and in photo three people are climbing up a waterfall. Ghyll scrambling/Gorge walking in The Lake District encompasses all of those things - walking up a mountain stream, climbing up waterfalls, swimming through pools, having loads of fun whilst feeling refreshed and exhilarated. This is a pretty cool thing to try out!<br />
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In the case of <a href="http://www.nucleargraduates.com/">Nucleargraduates</a>, all of the young people experience all of that outlined - but whilst working together, looking after each other and helping each other...it's a really good way to get to know people in your group!<br />
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And now the final bits - <b>how long can a ghyll Scrambling/Gorge Walking Session be?</b> Typically, we offer four hour sessions starting at 09:00 or 13:00 on the day you book; or you can make a full day be doing two Ghyll Scrambling Sessions "back to back! If you have balls of steel and really want to go for it - then you should consider attending one of our all day Esk Gorge Ghyll Scrambling trips!<br />
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<b>How much do these Ghyll Scrambling/Gorge Walking Sessions in The Lake District cost?</b> Prices start at just £45 per person for a minimum of two persons and you'll pay less if your group size is bigger! The Esk Gorge Trip starts at just £80 per person for a minimum of two persons.<br />
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<b>What equipment is provided?</b> Everything you see the people wearing in photo four! Cagoules, wetsuits, walking boots, helmets & harnesses. You need to bring your own swimwear & towels and a long sleeved fleece type top each to wear under the cagoules. You'll also need either two pairs of normal (not ankle) shoe socks to wear in the walking boots provided - so not a lot really, all the major stuff is provided as part of your fee along with an enthusiastic instructor who will keep you safe and make sure you have great fun!<br />
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<b>It's the Ghyll Scrambling/Gorge Walking Season here in The Lake District - so <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/contact/">contact us</a> to book your session. It's great for families with kids who'll just love it; and under 16's get a discount anyway! We look forward to working with yo</b>u.<br />
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<br />Iain Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11524721777391883236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2580297051840846397.post-76130264138007578782017-05-21T11:12:00.004+01:002017-05-24T06:56:40.445+01:00Guiding on Ben Nevis. A National 3 peaks challenge. Friday 5th May 2017.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Iain's recent trip to Scotland didn't finish with his departure from Skye on Thursday after working with Steve Smith & Jon Glew on The Cuillin Ridge. One of our friends up north had asked Iain if he were available to assist with guiding a large party of people who were attempting a National Three Peaks Challenge starting with an ascent of Ben Nevis.<br />
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Photo one sees Iain's group after about two hours of our ascent from the visitor centre in Glen Nevis; and as you can see, the weather was continuing it's fine & settled theme. We were all glad of a light northerly breeze which as helping to keep us cool!<br />
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National three peaks challenges can be done from either south to North starting with Snowdon in Wales and finishing on Ben Nevis in Scotland - the only snag with doing them this way is that as you get progressively more tired, the climbs become longer! Therefore, doing the challenge from north to south around makes more sense.<br />
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Our group today started at 15:40 and we arrived at the summit of Ben Nevis at 19:20. Four & a half hours is the average time for this arduous climb involving 2704 metres of ascent/descent and a round trip of 17 kilometres so they didn't do badly. However - they still had Scafell Pike & Snowdon to do - all within 24 hours!<br />
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Photo three sees Iain's group on top of "The Ben". As can be seen in both photos two & three, there was still quite a lot of snow up here; and despite the sunshine, the air temperature was close to freezing - but of course this is Britain's highest mountain at 1344 metres/4406 feet high!<br />
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It used to be reckoned that if Ben Nevis was another 500 feet/152.4 metres higher, then it would be covered in a glacial icecap. With the advent of global warming theories, "The Ben" would probably need to be a bit higher than that now, but this is still a serious mountain even in Summer; and novices should take care and be prepared and able to deal with poor visibility and winter conditions at the top.<br />
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<b><i>People still die on this mountain fairly frequently - so if in doubt, hire the services of a Mountain Walking Leader or Mountaineering Instructor to get you safely to the summit and back down again!</i></b><br />
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Our last photo from this post about guiding on a National Three Peaks Challenge was taken as the group began their descent from "the Ben's" summit plateau.<br />
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We were looking out west down to Loch Linnhe with its terminal westerly arm - Loch Eil, running towards the sun; and away in the distance can be seen the sea. This was another perfect and clear day and the views extended out west as far as as the Rhum Cuillin and the Skye Cuillin - the very distant mountain ranges visible beyond everything else.<br />
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<b>Kendal Mountaineering Services do not offer National Three Peak Challenges as part of our services, but we do provide <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/winter-skills-training-courses/">Winter Climbing Courses on Ben Nevis</a> and elsewhere in Scotland and we can provide you with <a href="http://www.blog.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/2017/03/guided-fell-walking-in-lake-district_16.html">guided ascents of Scafell Pike</a> here in The Lake District. <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/contact/">Contact us here</a> if you are interested in either option. We look forward to working with you.</b>Iain Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11524721777391883236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2580297051840846397.post-66155007940867688252017-05-21T10:19:00.000+01:002017-05-21T10:19:44.278+01:00Guiding on The Cuillin Ridge. May 4th, 2017. The Am Bastier Tooth and Am Basteir via Lota Corrie Route.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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After a rest day on Wednesday, Iain Steve and Jon met for one last time at Sligachan for the final objective of the pairs three days on the Cuillin Ridge - an ascent of Am Basteir via Lota Corrie Route and the Am Basteir Tooth.<br />
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As with the previous three days, the weather dawned hot and sunny and only a slight breeze and everything, everywhere, bone dry - just perfect for our final day on the ridge. Photo one saw us approaching Coire a' Bhastier after only and hour & a half - all "going well". Our objectives are on the skyline in the middle of the photo to the left of Steve.<br />
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A little over an hour later, we had reached and then descended beyond the Bealach Nan Lice - the col between Am Basteir Tooth and Sgurr a' Fionn Coire, into the head of Lota Corrie.<br />
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The guide describes the entry to Lota Corrie Route as a ramp of light coloured rock reached just before arriving at the lowest part of the cliff on that side. There is also a quite obvious cairn marking the foot of the climb.<br />
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After some lunch, Iain set off up the climb which is in fact, a basalt dyke forming a chimney leading all the way to the top of the tooth.<br />
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Whilst Lota Corrie Route is described as a moderate climb, Iain felt the route was only grade three scrambling although there was a lot of loose rock in the bed of the gully so, we pitched it all the way. Photo two is taken at the top of a steep chimney. One further pitch led us on to the "root" of the Am Basteir Tooth.<br />
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Photo three sees Steve & Jon just below the highest point on the Am Basteir Tooth. Although this looks fearsome from below, the top of the tooth is a gently sloping ramp. However when you look over the edge, it really does feel like a long way down to the screes below and it is easy to imagine how exposed one might feel when arriving here via Naismith's Route (a V Diff rock climb). In fact, a pair arrived with us just then - having climbed that route as part of their two day Cuillin Ridge Traverse.<br />
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This was the first time Iain had been to the top o the Am Basteir Tooth, so today was as much of an adventure for him as it was the others.<br />
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In the background in photo three, the summit rocks of Am Basteir rear above us; and according to the guidebook, getting there is via a "tricky" climb above an overhanging chimney - also graded at V Diff. It was now time to go and have a look at this!<br />
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Photo four looks down on Steve & Jon securely anchored on a stance below this tricky climb.<br />
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Getting there was easy enough. We scrambled back down the tooth and climbed back up and round right into a gully (lower left in this photo) leading up to the stance with a wall above.<br />
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It was clear to see that going via the overhanging chimney was the easiest way up this wall which completely barred access to the summit of Am Basteir; and it turned out to be remarkably easy to get up. Mind you - it wasn't a place to slip as there were no decent running belays anywhere on it! On a wet day, this would be a serious place to be.<br />
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Iain made sure that Steve & Jon saw how he had climbed it; and they followed - with ease! All that remained was about 15 foot of easy scrambling to the summit of Am Basteir.<br />
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Photo five sees a very satisfied pair of clients on the summit of Am Basteir - their fifth & final Cuillin Ridge Munro of the week.<br />
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Beyond the guys is the summit of Sgurr Nan Gillean which is the last Munro summit to be traversed if one is traversing The Cuillin Ridge from south to north. <a href="http://www.blog.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/2014/05/cuillin-ridge-traverse-trip-may-2014_6472.html">Steve climbed it in 2014 with Iain</a>, Jon has yet to reach it's summit.<br />
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From here, we descended easier slopes going via the "bad step" and arriving at the Bealach a' Bhastier at around 15:30. Very good timing!<br />
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A further two hours would see us arrive back at the vehicles at the Sligachan Hotel. On the walk back out, Iain couldn't resist taking a photo of the pair in the lower part of Coire a' Bhasteir with the Pinnacle Ridge skyline of Sgurr Nan Gillean forming the backdrop - a classic Cuillin photograph and also a "must do" tick for anyone wishing to enjoy a true mountaineering excursion in The Cuillins.<br />
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So that was it, the end of three perfect mountaineering days on the best mountain ridge in the UK and sadly for Iain, the end of another annual week spent in this idyllic place; and the weather just couldn't have been better! <b>We'll be returning to Skye next May for our annual <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/skye-cuillin-ridge-traverse/">Cuillin Ridge Traverse Trip</a> and if you wish to join us and be guided by Iain on the Cuillin Ridge whilst enjoying the comfort and hospitality offered by our accommodation then <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/contact/">contact us here</a>. The price next year is likely to be £475 per person for seven nights self catering accommodation and four days guiding on the ridge with Iain. We look forward to working with you!</b></div>
Iain Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11524721777391883236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2580297051840846397.post-81629267097821129442017-05-16T08:04:00.003+01:002017-05-16T08:04:42.142+01:00Guiding on The Cuillin Ridge. May 2nd 2017. The Inaccessible Pinnacle and Sgurr Na Banachdich.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Day two of Iain's visit to The Cuillin Ridge of Skye would see us start at the later time of 9am. We were all pretty knackered after the previous long day and every attempt was made to make this day somewhat shorter. It was with some relief that the only two summits we were going for were the Inaccessible Pinnacle on Sgurr Dearg and Sgurr Na Banachdich. It had been a good decision to have included Sgurr a' Ghreadaidh into the previous day's itinerary for sure!<br />
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Photo one sees John & Steve about an hour & a half into our walk in - on the steep west ridge of Sgurr Dearg on a hot and cloudless day. Thank god for the occasional bit of breeze to cool us down!<br />
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After some two & a half hours, we finally arrived at our first objective - the Inaccessible Pinnacle (photo two) this blade of rock overtops the main bulk of Sgurr Dearg by some 10 metres and is regarded as the true summit of the Munro. Our plan was to climb up the exposed South Ridge to the right (a polished "Moderate" rock climb) and then abseil down that dark vertical face just to the right of Steve.<br />
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We arrived relatively early here to avoid the queues wishing to traverse the "In Pinn" however, we still had to wait a short time before we were able to start our own ascent.<br />
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Photo three sees Steve & Jon about about 45 minutes after the last photo was taken. Neither found the exposed climb up the crest of the south ridge particularly difficult and we were soon all at the top. In "typical peak bagger style" Jon wanted to climb on to the top of The Bolster Stone (the very highest bit of the Inaccessible Pinnacle and right behind the guys in this photo) - something which Iain absolutely refused to allow him to do!<br />
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All that remained now was the stacked abseil back to the foot of the upper end of the pinnacle and after the entertaining abseils the previous day on Bidein Druim Nan Ramh, this presented no problem for these two.<br />
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After pulling down the rope and packing away the climbing gear, we enjoyed some welcome lunch before heading off towards Sgurr Na Banachdich at only half past mid-day. Now that was more like it!<br />
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A little over an hour later, we arrived on the summit of Sgurr Na Banachdich (photo four) after a long & hot traverse where Iain always stays below the ridge on it's western flank in order to avoid having to climb down and back up again to get past the notch formed by a basalt dyke between the southern & central tops of Sgurr Na Banachdich.<br />
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The heat of the day was making itself felt; and whilst Jon was keen to dash on and scamper up on to the south summit, Steve was more than happy just to follow Iain. On top of Banachdich, we met some happy chap who'd literally just completed all of the Munros by climbing this peak. Well done Paul Robertson - that was his name!<br />
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We all set off down the western flank of Sgurr Na Banachdich together heading for the very top of Coire An Eich - this is the easiest ascent or descent route on this side of Sgurr Na Banachdich; although it is still composed of steep scree on the upper part of the mountain.<br />
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It is always a relief to reach the lower part of the corrie (photo five) and get back on to soft grass. Here a number of springs allow for a refreshing drink if you've run out of water and the route onwards is a more gentle descent to join the path leading from Coire a' Ghreadaidh to the Glen Brittle Youth Hostel - only a mile & a half distant.<br />
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The final photo from today's report looks up to the Cuillin Ridge from the Glen Brittle Road. Our descent route was between the small peak to the left (An Dallaidh) and the cone shaped final spur of Sgurr Nan Gobhar. The mountain central to this photo is Sgurr Dearg and the ridge to the right is An-T-Sron with The Cioch Face below - a very famous rock climbing venue where there are many long hard mountain routes to be attempted.<br />
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Today was done & dusted by 16:30 and a rest day would be taken by all of us the next day before we would all meet again on Thursday to tackle Lota Corrie Route on Am Basteir - our final day on The Cuillin Ridge together.<br />
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Was the next day a rest day? Well you'll have to read <a href="https://www.facebook.com/iain.gallagher/posts/1622612097766533?pnref=story">Iain's Facebook report</a> about that! Even on our days off, us Mountaineering Instructors can't stop climbing something!Iain Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11524721777391883236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2580297051840846397.post-86673189533986153882017-05-16T07:08:00.001+01:002017-05-16T07:08:35.692+01:00Guiding on The Cuillin Ridge. Monday May 1st, 2017. Sgurr a' Ghreadaidh to An Caisteal.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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At the very end of April, Iain travelled to the Isle of Skye to work with returning client Steve Smith and his mate Jon Glew. I<a href="http://www.blog.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/2014/05/cuillin-ridge-traverse-trip-may-2014.html">ain first worked with Steve in 2014 on Skye during our annual Cuillin Ridge Traverse Trip</a>. Steve returned to us again last year to be guided up Pillar Rock in The Lake District - now that was a great day out!<br />
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In 2014, there were a number of Munro Summits on The Cuillin Ridge that we had been unable to get Steve to the top of. And Steve & Jon's objectives on this trip was to attain them all. The first photo sees Steve & Jon on top of Sgurr a' Ghreadaidh - our first Munro of the day.<br />
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As luck would have it, this week coincided with the start of a long settled period of weather which was just what we needed - particularly for this particular section of The Cuillin Ridge which rarely gets traversed during our Cuillin Ridge Traverse Trips - there's a very good reason for that!<br />
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Travelling from Sgurr a' Mhadaidh to the summit of Bruach Na Frithe is a very long day and the subject of sustained technical difficulties. In photo two Steve & Jon can be seen on the rock climb up on to the summit of the the 2nd top of Sgurr A Mhadaidh - just one of four difficult sections to be passed on this section of the ridge and all are beyond the realms of scrambling in terms of difficulty!<br />
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We had started out from Glen Brittle Youth Hostel at 08:30 on this day and reached An Dorus by 11am. As Steve wanted to climb Sgurr a' Ghreadaidh too, Iain decided to fit it in on this day to cut down the length of the following day - not something we would normally do, but deemed necessary on this occasion.<br />
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By the time we had gone up & down Ghreadaidh, crossed back over An Dorus; and dealt with the four tops of Sgurr a Mhadaidh, it was around 2pm before we reached the Bealach Na Glaic Mhor (photo three).<br />
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After a late lunch, we then set off to tackle the next challenge on this section of the Cuillin Ridge - Bidein Druim Nan Ramh. This has three summits (South Central & North) all of which have to be crossed unless you avoid the whole lot by traversing the screes below the western face. Getting across the gap between the south & central tops involves dealing with a tricky down-climb. Getting up on the central summit is grade 3 scrambling and then getting off that involves a seriously exposed descent to the first abseil station (photo four).<br />
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There are two abseils into the gap between the central & northern tops. The second one is less difficult to get to but is overhanging towards it's base. It is with relief that one climbs up to the north top and continues on towards An Caisteal, but beyond that that summit, there is further tricky down-climbing and an abseil into the gap between An Caisteal and Sgurr Na Bairnich - it is only once you've passed this place that you can really start to relax!<br />
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By the time we had disposed of that last difficult section, the time was 5:25pm and we were looking at a late finish. This was not something Iain wanted in view of tomorrow's plan. So, we left the ridge at this point and headed down the scree into Coire Na Tairneilear (photo five) on our way to Coire Na Creiche which is in all reality, the very head of Glen Brittle.<br />
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We had started off the day with a cool and steady breeze on the ridge, but by the early afternoon, this had completely died away and the walk back out was fairly baking hot!<br />
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The final photo from our first day out shows the section of ridge we had traversed in it's entirety. The four tops of Sgurr a' Mhadaidh are visible right of centre in photo six and just right of those - Sgurr a' Ghreadaidh can be seen peeping over the top of the ridge linking Sgurr a Mhadaidh & Sgurr Thuilm. Bidein Druim Nan Ramh is hidden behind Sgurr an Fheadain (the cone shaped peak split by a big chimney - Waterpipe Gully), An Caisteal is the peak to the left of that. The stream in the foreground is the River Brittle on it's way to Fairy Pools - fortunately these days (or not - depending on your point of view!) there is a very good footpath all the way to the Fairy Pools Car Park at the head of Glen Brittle - the only "sting in the tail" is that the final bit to the vehicles is uphill!!<br />
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We arrive back at Steve's van at 7:30pm. A long but satisfying first day on The Cuillin Ridge.Iain Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11524721777391883236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2580297051840846397.post-10959686029936173222017-04-26T10:52:00.001+01:002017-04-26T10:52:56.905+01:00And since Easter? Further activity sessions and skills Training Courses with Kendal Mountaineering Services.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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And after the Easter weekend, the work continued. Iain had a welcome day off on Monday and was then back out with Ray Palmer and his daughter Nicole who were back once again visiting The Lake District. Once again, they were keen to be guided by Iain for the day on a "moderate" <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/hill-walking/">fell walking day</a> on the Tuesday.<br />
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Iain took the pair up Loughrigg Fell - not the highest, but one of the most central fells in The Lake District with a commanding view north to Grasmere (photo one), Windermere & Langdale. We had a lovely hot sunny & calm day (now that's more like it!) and did a route from High Close straight to the summit before descending south and then east to visit Rydal Cave. The pair enjoyed an excellent lunch at <a href="http://www.rydalhall.org/tea-shop/">The Old School Room Tea Shop</a> at Rydal Hall before we returned to High Close via the Old Coffin Road and Loughrigg Terrace. Thanks to our friends at Mountain-Journeys for the work.<br />
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Last Thursday and Friday saw Iain back on the water with Nick Halliday and his partner Karin. Again, visitors from London. Nick & Karin had booked not only to do some <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/kayaking-courses/">kayaking </a>with Iain, but also booked to join us on our our forthcoming Navigation Skills Training weekend.<br />
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The pair had arranged two half day Kayaking Sessions with us, so, on Thursday, we went to Rydal Water to learn skills and enjoy some peace & tranquility on this unspoilt lake (photo two). Once again, Iain showed the pair every skill he could think of and they picked them up well; although it was quite clear from the outset that neither were complete novices as both could paddle the kayaks in a straight line from the start - and that's no easy feat!<br />
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On Friday morning we went to a different venue - Ullswater - The Lake District's most north easterly lake which is again, relatively unspoilt and pretty.<br />
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We put on to the lake at it's southern end and visited the main river flowing in at this end - Goldrill Beck flowing in from Patterdale (photo three). The pair enjoyed our short journey on this relatively sheltered if a little shallow stretch of river before we returned to the lake and did a tour of its southern end in somewhat chilly & breezy conditions. Iain's opinion after two half day sessions on flat water was that the pair needed to move on to river journeying; and they readily agreed. We'll be seeing then again for some of that we hope.<br />
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Saturday saw us on The Kentmere Fells just to the north of Kendal running one of our Mountain Navigation Skills Training Weekends for a large number of clients - two groups of ten in fact!<br />
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<b>These courses run in the Spring & Autumn and are priced at £80 per person for a two day course which is designed to give you all of the map reading skills you'll need to venture into the UK's mountains in any conditions, with confidence.</b> Photo five sees Iain's group toward the end of day one; and by this time, they had been walking from one grid reference to another - on a bearing, whilst pacing, for several hours. Good skills!<br />
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Our final photo from this post about all we've been up to in the last week sees everyone who attended last weekend's Map Reading & Navigation Skills Training Course on the summit of Shipman Knotts - we had to take one photo to prove all twenty persons had been there!<br />
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<b>Our Map Reading & Navigation Skills Training Courses are also ideal for anyone preparing for a Mountain Walking Leader Training Course, Assessment Course or re-assessment of their navigational ability. We are teaching skills to ML standard on these courses and they do represent exceptional value. You can <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/upcoming/">view the next course dates here</a> and we are looking to fill all courses - so do join us!</b><br />
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And that's all at the moment. We head to the Isle of Skye this coming weekend for the next adventure, can't wait!Iain Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11524721777391883236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2580297051840846397.post-18006480825883534132017-04-26T09:44:00.002+01:002017-04-26T09:45:13.960+01:00In the run up to: and during Easter weekend 2017 with Kendal Mountaineering Services.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hi Folks, it's been over a fortnight since we've posted anything on our Blog, so for those of you who follow that - here's an update or two!<br />
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Working; and keeping on top of social media too is quite a time consuming business - regular updates have been posted to our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/outdoor.mountain.courses">Facebook page</a> though!<br />
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After our busy first week in April spending loads of time with people Rock Climbing & Scrambling in gorgeous weather, we had a few days off and then came back to...not such good weather! In fact we had to cancel day one of Sue & John Paddon's <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/rock-climbing-courses/">learning to lead Rock Climbing Course</a>. However, we did manage to get out on the second day (photo one) and give Sue & John enough skills that they now feel confident about their ability to go out and climb multi-pitch rock routes. Job done!<br />
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On Easter Friday, we had a booking courtesy of Bowness Bay Tourist Information Centre who had been handing our leaflets out. This resulted in a call from James McNeilis and his girlfriend Claire who had travelled from London to spend their Easter break in The Lake District and were interested in Abseiling.<br />
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Iain met the pair at Skelwith bridge and took them along to Hodge Close Quarry - the Lake District's most epic <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/abseiling-courses/">abseiling</a> venue.<br />
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In the woods seemingly on the middle of nowhere, a vast pit has been hewn out of the local slate resulting in 3 different places where one can abseil - an easy angled slab about 35 metres long just to get you started, a shorter more vertical drop to get some more adrenaline flowing and "the big one" the abseil into Parrock Quarry at over 40 metres in vertical height. James & Claire attempted all three abseils and can be seen in photo two attempting a tandem abseil (yes that's right - they both go together!!) at the easy slab. Good effort you two!<br />
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Saturday Morning saw Iain meeting Simon Eddison & his fiance Vicky in Borrowdale for some Introductory Rock Climbing. The pair had been getting out at their local climbing wall (they also live in London) and were wanting to try out some climbing on real rock whilst they were staying in the Keswick area.<br />
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Iain took Simon & Vicky to Brown Slabs, Shepherd's Crag - a famous venue for trad rock climbing of all grades. Brown Slabs is...a big slab of rock with loads of long easy routes where beginners can get stuck in to really enjoying rock climbing.<br />
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Iain set up a top rope - bottom belay system similar to that used in a climbing wall. The rope is anchored to the top of the crag and the climber climbs up from the bottom whilst being belayed by an another person (see photo three). It's a great, easy way to take those first steps on to outdoor rock in safety. Simon & Vicky loved it!<br />
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Sunday saw Iain working in a completely different environment - on water, not rock! As it happened, the weather was now completely unfit for any form of outdoor rock climbing having turned cold and wet, miserable indeed!<br />
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Iain had a double half day session from <a href="https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/fell-foot">Fell foot Country Park</a> on Windermere teaching people the art of <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/kayaking-courses/">Kayaking</a>. Firstly, he was joined by Peter Newman who merely wanted to have a go as he is considering getting into the sport of Sea Kayaking. And then in the afternoon, Iain was joined by Conrad & Matthew Hall from Skipton (photo four) who have already bought their own kayaks and had been sent to Iain by Mum - Yvonne, to get some skills training. Iain spent the afternoon showing the pair all of the skills he could think of to get them started out in their kayaks - he thinks they'll do alright!<br />
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<b>So that was our busy Easter period; a combination of skills training courses and activity sessions; and nine clients go away having learned new skills and improved their self confidence - as well as having had a great time - of course! And you can expect to have a great time with us too when you book your outdoor activity session or Skills Training Course in The Lake District. <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/contact/">Contact us</a> here to enquire, you won't be disappointed!</b>Iain Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11524721777391883236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2580297051840846397.post-27239789863845732902017-04-11T22:06:00.001+01:002017-04-11T22:06:51.456+01:00Upcoming Navigation & Map Reading Skills Training Weekend Courses with Kendal Mountaineering Services.<div class="post-body entry-content" id="post-body-4231674292409117319" itemprop="description articleBody" style="background-color: #fffef1; color: #231f20; font-family: Trebuchet, 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.65px;">
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Kendal Mountaineering Services are offering a number of fantastic Value Navigation Skills Training Weekends throughout Spring & Autumn/Winter 2017. Our most recent course ran very successfully during <a href="https://www.facebook.com/outdoor.mountain.courses/posts/1517915161582302">March 25th & 26th</a> with a full complement of ten persons.</div>
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<b>Our April 22nd & 23rd Course has two groups running and has just three spaces left - <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/contact/">book now </a>to avoid missing out on this course!</b></div>
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<b>Our May 27th & 28th Course has two people booked on but we need at least another two persons for it to run. The same applies to our September 23rd & 24th Navigation Skills Training Weekend - we need another two persons in order for it to run so please <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/contact/">get booked on</a>!</b></div>
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At £80 per person for a two day 16 hour course, these represent exceptional value for money.<br />
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Our Navigation Skills Weekend Courses are designed to give you the skills and ability to venture into the UK's mountains in any conditions with confidence.<br />
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<a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/upcoming/" style="color: #968a0a;"><b>View our Course dates here</b></a>.<br />
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On<b> day One</b> of our Navigation Skills Training Courses, we concentrate on giving you map reading skills starting with the most basic skills such as:-<br />
<b>Orientating the map to aid identification of features on the ground.</b><br />
<b>Identifying features on the ground from information on the map.</b><br />
<b>Measuring distance on the map</b><br />
<b>Pacing distances on the ground</b><br />
<b>Finding tick off features</b><br />
<b>"Handrailing" ie following a linear feature such as a road, track footpath or bridleway.</b><br />
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Other skills we will show you on day one include:-<br />
<b>Using the grid system on the map to locate a specific place using 4, 6 & 8 figure Grid References.</b><br />
<b>Using a compass to take a bearing, then walking between Grid References.</b><br />
<b>Naismith's Rule - how to time between Grid References.</b><br />
<b><br /></b><b>Day two</b> sees us go further up the Kentmere Valley on to higher ground to consolidate skills learnt on day one and add additional skills such as :-<br />
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<b>Using the compass to identify an unknown object or location from a known point</b>and<br />
<b>transposing between map scale</b>s - <b>ie identifying features or objects on different map scales. We will be working between OS 1:25 AND 1:50'000 map scales.</b><br />
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As part of your fee for these Navigation Skills Training Weekends, we provide you with maps in both 1:50 & 1:25 scales.<br />
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You need to bring your own compass and this <u>must</u> <u>be</u> the <b>civilian specification Silva Type 4 Expedition Compass</b> shown, at it's current best UK price <a href="http://www.mapandcompass.co.uk/Silva-Expedition-4-Compass-79284.aspx?gclid=CjwKEAiAuc_FBRD7_JCM3NSY92wSJABbVoxBi7saNNMtxDKWmMPIt2U7wtiEy5JyIAm48DL5jYTIGBoCi4Lw_wcB" style="color: #968a0a;">here</a>.<br />
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<b>Our Navigation Skills Training Weekends are also suitable for anyone wanting a Navigation Skills Refresher prior to attending a Summer Mountain-walking Leader Training or Assessment Course or Re-assessment.</b><br />
<b><br /></b><b><a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/contact/" style="color: #968a0a;">Contact us here</a> or call Iain on 07761 483364 to book your place now! We look forward to working with you.</b></div>
Iain Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11524721777391883236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2580297051840846397.post-5393302228797739582017-04-11T16:44:00.000+01:002017-04-11T16:44:06.884+01:00Rock Climbing Skills Training Courses in The Lake District. Friday & Saturday 7th & 8th April, 2017.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Nigel Brown from North Yorkshire booked a two day <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/rock-climbing-courses/">Rock Climbing Course in The Lake District</a> with us some time ago.<br />
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In our discussions, he told me that he used to climb quite a long time ago and now was getting out more & more to nearby Harrogate Climbing centre with his teenage daughter - Georgia.<br />
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They had spent quite a few sessions at the climbing wall and were now keen to make the next step to "Trad leading" outdoors.<br />
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Iain felt that the best way to approach this would be to provide the pair with a Guided Rock Climbing Day in The Lake District, so that Nigel & Georgia could see how climbing systems work.<br />
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Photo one sees Georgia at the third stance on Middlefell Buttress (Diff) at Raven Crag in Langdale with Dad - Nigel, about to join us there.<br />
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Middlefell Buttress was a good place to start. The route is a pleasant if not a somewhat "polished" climb, but it allows novice rock climbers to see lots of anchor placements and lots of stance management on it's five pitches (there's a sixth pitch if you want to do it too!). We used the abseil retreat into the gully to the left of the crag so that the pair could have a go at this as well.<br />
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They both absolutely loved their first rock climbing route!<br />
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Photo two sees Georgia sat again waiting for Dad to join us at the head of Savernake (MS). Climbing this 3 pitch rock climb is a good step up from Middlefell Buttress, it is also polished but the 2nd & 3rd pitches are a good deal harder than anything on Middlefell Buttress. Neither of them had any difficulty with this climb which was great; and again, they both really enjoyed it!<br />
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The quickest way to get down from from the top of the final pitch of Savernake is to abseil off. Is it? Well probably not as by the time you've set up the abseil, you could have walked off down the descent route from the top of Raven Crag which passes close by.<br />
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However a long abseil is much more challenging and when you are at that top stance on Savernake, the foot of the crag looks a long way below - a single 50 or 60 metre rope wouldn't get you anywhere near the foot of the crag - but two 60 metre ropes does it with loads to spare!<br />
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Iain set up a stacked abseil having used the Oak tree at the top of the route as an anchor for the two ropes that he tied together. Georgia and Nigel were attached to both ropes using slings and their belay plates and everything was checked; and double checked before Iain abseiled down; and then beckoned Georgia to follow. In photo three Georgia is down and is holding both ropes to safeguard Dad - just in case he let go of the controlling rope and started to plummet! Good skills!<br />
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Having spent the day seeing how Iain guided on Multi-pitch Rock Climbs as a Mountaineering Instructor, day two was all about Georgia and Nigel doing it for themselves whilst being coached by Iain.<br />
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In photo four, Georgia has led up the first pitch of Route 1, Upper Scout Crag, arranged two anchors and then equalised them to a central attachment point using a long sling.<br />
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On the way up the first pitch Georgia placed four very good ("Bomber" as the saying goes..) anchors and extended them well. Iain placed a camming device in an appropriate crack so that Georgia could see how these work and also how to clip into such a device (you NEVER clip one karabiner into another where a serious shock-load could take place!) Georgia performed well in every aspect of climbing on this pitch. Well done!<br />
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After Georgia belayed her Dad up to the first stance, he took over the lead up the second crux pitch of the climb. The Crux basically means the hardest part of the climbing route.<br />
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Nigel led on up making good decisions and also placing some excellent anchors and running belays along the way. He also dealt with the crux of the route (just below where Georgia is in photo five) with no problem at all!<br />
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We were lucky with both days for climbing; and Saturday in particular really was perfect, warm and calm. No breeze, just blues skies, sunshine and warm dry rock. Just the job!<br />
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At the second stance, Iain got Nigel to tie into the anchors using the climbing rope rather than slings - after all, this is what you should do if you are leading alternate pitches on any multi-pitch rock climb!<br />
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Our final photo of the day sees Georgia and Nigel at the top of Route 1. Georgia is practising the skill of coiling the climbing wall - something she had learnt at Harrogate Climbing Centre, but wanted to practice some more.<br />
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We then dropped back down to the base of the crag and had some lunch before starting up Route 2. We climbed two pitches of this four pitch rock climb and upon arriving at another Oak tree, Iain asked the pair to arrange their own abseil retreat to see if they could remember how we had done it each time, the previous day.<br />
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As you might imagine, they both needed a bit of help to remember, but once we had the set-up arranged and they were both safely attached, we were all soon at the foot of the crag again.<br />
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Both Nigel & Georgia were extremely satisfied with their two day Multi-Pitch Rock Climbing Course in The Lake District run by Iain; and are keen to get some equipment and get out climbing - that's exactly what we would recommend and we wish them the best of luck! They also intend to come back later in the Summer to us for an appraisal of their climbing skills and a bit more coaching if necessary. This sounds good to us!<br />
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<b>Nigel paid just £80 per person per day for the pairs Rock Climbing Skills Training Course with us. Helmets, harnesses, climbing ropes, rack and coaching/guiding by an experienced Mountaineering Instructor are all included in your fee but you can bring along and use your own equipment as long as we deem it fit for purpose.</b><br />
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<b>We have a lot of experience in delivering Multi-pitch Rock Climbing Skills Training Courses in The Lake District, so if you are looking to get out and develop your skills on real Lake District rock - <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/contact/">then contact us</a>!</b><br />
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<b>We look forward to working with you.</b><br />
<br />Iain Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11524721777391883236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2580297051840846397.post-89826719427097761722017-04-11T15:37:00.000+01:002017-04-11T15:37:14.479+01:00Corporate Ghyll Scrambling Sessions in The Lake District. Hause Gill, Borrowdale, April 6th, 2017.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Last Thursday, Iain was in Borrowdale to run the first of our annual <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/ghyll-scrambling-courses/">Ghyll Scrambling Sessions in The Lake District</a> for <a href="http://www.energus.co.uk/">Energus</a>/<a href="http://www.nucleargraduates.com/">Nucleargraduates</a> - a company based in West Cumbria.<br />
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The company may be based in West Cumbria, but the group of young people we were working with today are all undergraduates from around the country. All are almost at the end of their university education and most will be attaining degrees in Engineering of one form or another.<br />
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Nucleargraduates recruit for the nuclear industry - hence the name. All of these young people have been successful in applying for apprenticeships with Nucleargraduates and in the Autumn, will be be starting their 2 year apprenticeships with Nucleargraduates within the organisation's sponsors which include Sellafield Ltd, Rolls Royce, The Nuclear Decommissioning Authority and Magnox - just to name a few.<br />
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All of the young people in today's group will be working with each other during their two year apprenticeships and Nucleargraduates use our services to provide Ghyll Scrambling as an "icebreaker" in order that these young people can get to know each other better - right at the start of their careers.<br />
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So how do we go about making this happen? Well, by impelling the group into an experience where they will have to work together in an unknown and potentially challenging environment; and many of these young people will never have been Ghyll Scrambling before!<br />
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We get everyone kitted out in wet-suits, walking boots, a long sleeved fleece top each and a cagoule and also helmets & harnesses; and then we do a journey up a mountain stream ( a Ghyll) bed which can be perceived as a pretty arduous environment.<br />
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By working together and looking after each other however, it is possible for the group to overcome all obstacles presented to them and the idea is to "rise to the challenge" positively in order to achieve success. Through this process, the group members form bonds with one another; and this is how an icebreaker works!<br />
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As well as giving the group the opportunity to work together and support and encourage each other, we do like to throw in the odd challenge to help people to realise that with a bit of positive mental attitude and encouragement - almost anything is possible.<br />
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On today's Ghyll Scrambling Session in The Lake District, Iain made a point of adding one challenge after another and climbing this waterfall in photo four was one such challenge. All but one of the group attempted it; and successfully got to the top. Thanks to the person who didn't climb the waterfall for taking this great photograph - so they still contributed; and that's all that matters!<br />
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<span id="goog_45148625"></span><span id="goog_45148626"></span>Our final photo from today's post about Ghyll Scrambling in The Lake District sees the group at the end of their session with us - pretty chilly after several soakings, but very satisfied with what they had achieved together as a team.<br />
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And as we've already said - hopefully this will knit them much tighter as a group and help them achieve success as they work together over the next two years - well done!<br />
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<b>Nucleargraduates paid just £40 per person for this half day (4 hour) Ghyll Scrambling Session in The Lake District with us. All of the equipment you see the group wearing was provided as part of their fee per person. Ghyll Scrambling is a great fun activity and one of our most popular activities over the Summer months. It is also ideal for bringing any team closer together and is ideal for team-building and corporate events.</b><br />
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<a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/contact/">Contact us here</a> to book your Ghyll Scrambling Session in The Lake District. We look forward to working with you!Iain Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11524721777391883236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2580297051840846397.post-83910498585210362222017-04-11T13:03:00.003+01:002017-04-11T13:03:53.243+01:00Scrambling Skills Training Courses in The Lake District. Langdale. April 4th & 5th, 2017.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Last Tuesday & Wednesday, Iain ran one of our popular <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/scrambling-courses/">Scrambling Skills Training Courses in The Lake District</a> for Aimee Sewell and her boyfriend Chris.<br />
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The aim of these courses are to give you all of the skills to be able to take a <a href="https://www.cicerone.co.uk/product/detail.cfm/book/831/title/scrambles-in-the-lake-district---south#.WOzEatQrLDc">Scrambling Guidebook</a> and go anywhere, on any grade of scrambling route, whilst remaining safe - having learnt appropriate skills from us and the judgement to know what methods to use where - on any scrambles in the UK.<br />
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In photo one, Aimee and Chris are practising the skill of "spotting". This is a skill used on easy (grade 1) scrambling ground where people move together supporting each other by holding feet in place or pressing on bodies to stop someone slipping or falling off a steeper or slippery part of a scramble.<br />
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We spent our first day of Scrambling Skills Training in The Lake District on Tarn Crag in Langdale. After having a go at spotting, Iain showed the pair the skills of short roping and demonstrated this with the pair on the rope as if he were "guiding" them.<br />
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Short roping is a method which should be employed if you are on ground where "a slip could turn into something more serious" ie, you ultimately fall receiving a serious injury. Scramblers tie on to the climbing rope and then the lead scrambler shortens the length of rope between them and the seconds using chest coils - Aimee can be seen wearing chest coils in photo two as both she and Chris scramble up a route on Tarn Crag. This system allows for flexible use of the rope whether you be "moving together" or "pitching" (climbing).<br />
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We also looked all different manners of belays for keeping people secure whilst scrambling - direct belays, body belays, et cetera.<br />
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Following a morning of coaching, the pair were allowed to put the skills they had learned from Iain into practice on a grade 2 scrambling route in the afternoon - this is what Aimee is doing in photo two!<br />
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We always recommend a two day Scrambling Skills Training Course in The Lake District with us. This is in order that we can effectively teach you all of the scrambling skills on day one; and then a further day of coaching allows you to consolidate all that you have learned whilst putting it into practice on yet more great scrambling routes.<br />
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We started day two with Chris leading on the East Rib of Tarn Crag - another fine grade 2 scrambling route. In photo three we were not very far from completing this scramble and Chris is leading off up one of the short steep buttresses to be found at the top of the crag. Up to this point, Chris had demonstrated appropriate methods of belaying (keeping safe) Aimee on the lower and harder part of the scramble whilst being coached by Iain. Chris did a very good job indeed - well done!<br />
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We finished day two of Aimee & Chris's Scrambling Skills Training Course in The Lake District by ascending the well known, popular and under-graded scrambling route - Jack's Rake on Pavey Ark. (Grade 1 - should be grade 2!)<br />
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This upward slanting ledge starts out as a comforting groove which gets steeper and then peters out towards the top of the first section meaning that the scrambling becomes quite serious and exposed. Slips here have lead to the deaths of several people who basically, shouldn't have been there as they were neither appropriately equipped nor had the necessary skills or experience - something that happens a lot on this route!<br />
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Aimee did a fine job of leading on this first difficult section and used appropriate methods of belaying for Chris who is following (photo four).<br />
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Photo five sees a very satisfied Aimee & Chris just beyond the very top of Jack's Rake.<br />
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Aimee performed well on this scramble using appropriate methods of belaying whilst coached by Iain. We got to the top of the route, packed up and then took in the summits of Pavey Ark and Harrison Stickle (two new "Wainwright summits" for the pair) before heading back down to Langdale Valley floor.<br />
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<b>Aimee & Chris paid just £80 each per day for their Scrambling Skills Training Course in The Lake District with us. The fee included the provision of helmets, harnesses, scrambling rack and rope as well as coaching by an experienced Mountaineering Instructor. Rather than getting yourself into a "tight spot" book a Scrambling Skills Training Course in The Lake District with us - you'll learn what to do where and you won't be disappointed! <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/contact/">Contact us here</a> to book your course - we look forward to working with you.</b>Iain Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11524721777391883236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2580297051840846397.post-41913148110102343582017-04-11T11:57:00.001+01:002017-04-11T11:57:42.214+01:00Introductory Rock Climbing Sessions in The Lake District. Shepherd's Crag, Borrowdale. Monday 3rd April 2017.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Last Monday, Iain met Adrian Valentine & his son Joshua in Borrowdale for an I<a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/rock-climbing-courses/">ntroductory Rock Climbing Session in The Lake District.</a><br />
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Josh and his dad have been doing some rock climbing at their local climbing wall in Hertfordshire and during this visit to The Lake District Adrian wanted to introduce Josh to the delights of climbing out of doors on real rock. This was something quite new to Josh, but he took to it well (photo one).<br />
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The pair were staying near Buttermere, but Iain persuaded them to come over to Borrowdale and meet home near Shepherds Crag which has a number of great Introductory Rock Climbing venues - ideal for trying out your first real rock climb!<br />
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The system we set up here for Adrian & Josh, is very similar to what you'd expect to find at your local indoor rock climbing wall - but no multi-coloured holds bolted to the rock here - sorry!<br />
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The belaying system is the same though. The climbing rope is anchored to the top of the crag and both ends of the rope hang down to the foot of the rock face. The climber is tied on to one end of the rope and the belayer operates from the other side of the rope. Photo two demonstrates how the system works - as Josh climbs up the rock, Dad "takes the rope in" on the other side keeping the rope between the pair tight so that if Josh were to slip, he would not fall.<br />
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The idea once one reaches the top of the climb, is that you lean back and put your weight on the rope; and are lowered back down by the belayer. Josh wasn't keen to do that so Iain had to climb up and walk him back down the path from the top of the crag in several occasions. This was no problem at all as we wanted the little chap's first experience on rock to be a positive as it could be!<br />
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Josh is only nine years old and needed fairly regular rests from rock climbing. This presented Dad - Adrian, with an opportunity to have a go at rock climbing himself and he was very happy to do this.<br />
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Photo three sees Adrian; ( being belayed by Iain) who, having reached the top of the rock climb, is now being lowered back down the crag. Adrian, had enough confidence that he was willing to allow Iain to lower him whilst he leaned out backwards with straight legs and walked backwards down the crag. When abseiling, it is important that you keep your body straight and have your feet flat on the rocks at all times - even if it means leaning out even further backwards.<br />
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We do run <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/abseiling-courses/">Abseiling Sessions in The Lake District</a> in their own right as an activity - ideal for <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/stag-dos-and-stag-events/">Stag</a> & <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/hen-stag-activities/">Hen Events</a> and great for getting a real adrenaline rush!<br />
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<b>Adrian paid just £50 each for an Introductory Rock Climbing Session in The Lake District for himself and Josh and was very happy with what they received for the money. Their fee included the provision of helmets, harnesses; and coaching by an experienced and enthusiastic Mountaineering Instructor who knows all of the best rock climbing venues in The Lake District from where to run your Introductory Rock Climbing Session. Photo four is the view from our rock climbing venue at Upper Shepherd's Crag in Borrowdale - looking straight up the valley, isn't that view just stunning!</b><br />
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<b>Contact Iain at Kendal Mountaineering Services here to book your Introductory Rock Climbing Course in The Lake District <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/contact/#_">here</a> - you won't be disappointed!</b>Iain Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11524721777391883236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2580297051840846397.post-58751755077459039192017-04-06T23:18:00.000+01:002017-04-06T23:18:02.648+01:00Scrambling Skills Training Courses in Scotland. Glen Coe. Tuesday 28th March 2017.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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On day two of what should have been a Winter Skills Training Course for the <a href="http://www.cuhwc.org.uk/">Cambridge University Hill-walking Club</a>, Iain found himself being asked if it were possible to change from the <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/navigation-courses-tuition/">Navigation Skills Training Course</a> we had provided the group as an alternative; and would it be possible for some of the group to go and do some <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/scrambling-courses/">Scrambling Skills Training</a> instead?<br />
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This was of course possible as Iain is a Mountaineering Instructor; and part of his remit is guiding & coaching Scrambling Skills. However, this should be done with a maximum of no more than three persons per MIA/MIC. As at least half of the group wanted to do this, Matt - the club president got all of those keen to "draw straws" and as it happened, three of Iain's group from the previous day drew the longest straws!<br />
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Left to right sees Alex, Jilles and Prab on the footpath en route to our Scrambling Skills Training Venue for the day which can be seen in the background in photo one. We were heading for the left hand side of Gearr Aonach where The Zig-zags make a popular scrambling route in Summer and a mountaineering route in Winter. Iain has been here with clients quite a few times in the past!<br />
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We got up to the foot of the nose of Gearr Aonach and Iain got everyone roped up so that we could go and practice "short roping" skills. Basically, if a slip could possibly turn into something more serious such as a fall, then the climbing rope should be deployed.<br />
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Short roping involves a leader who carries most of the climbing rope as "locked off" chest coils. This leader is also attached to the others (in this case the three guys as in photo two) and uses various belaying techniques with the rope to prevent any slips turning into something more serious. The rope should be tight between the leader and seconds whenever there is any scrambling taking place to prevent a slip. Iain took the three on a scrambling tour up the lower eastern side of Gearr Aonach where we could look at how short roping works; and how & where to apply the different types of belaying techniques available to the aspiring scrambler.<br />
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After spending the morning demonstrating short roping and belaying, it was time to coach Alex, Jilles & Prab in the techniques of scrambling.<br />
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Firstly, Iain got them all to tie on to the rope - both as seconds and as leaders, then, as it was already early afternoon, it was time to go and put all of the skills input to good use on a scramble.<br />
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Whilst we had all been having lunch, Iain had been studying the north face of Gearr Aonach and thought he could see a "scrambling line" that "would go" that is to say - a route that the lads could follow that would allow for variation in the application of belaying techniques whilst remaining safe. This route would also bring us out at the point on The Zig zags where the route changes from heading north to heading back south again - jut below the route's most interesting and technically demanding pitch.<br />
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The plan worked well; Ian put Alex in charge of looking after Jilles & Prab - guiding them up this scrambling route using all manner of belaying techniques such as the direct (Italian Hitch) belay seen being used in photo three.<br />
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We reached the change in direction on The Zig-zags after about an hour of scrambling during which Alex had used a range of appropriate techniques from moving together to "pitching" using a combination of body and direct belays where indicated by Iain.<br />
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Moving up the steepest part of The Zig-zags allowed Alex to bring the pair up to his stance before lowering them back down the pitch and then rejoining them by way of a counterbalanced abseil retreat to maintain his own safety.<br />
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We then headed off back down The Zig-zags (photo four) with Alex short roping Jilles & Prab - leading on ahead, whilst he applied appropriate belaying techniques as the three descended back towards the foot of the route.<br />
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All three lads thoroughly enjoyed their Scrambling Skills Training Course in Glen Coe with Iain who hopes that they continue to get out as a three practising what he showed then here today....of course they can always return to The Lake District in July for a refresher if they wish!<br />
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<b>Scrambling takes you on to more exhilarating terrain in the mountains - enjoying a good scramble is so much better than merely using a footpath to gain a summit. If you are interested in learning all about Scrambling Skills..whether it be in Scotland, The Lake District; or North Wales, then <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/contact/">contact us</a> to book your training course. Prices start at just £80 per person per day and this fee includes the provision of ropes, scrambling rack, helmets & harnesses as well as coaching by an experienced & qualified Mountaineering Instructor. You won't be disappointed! </b>Iain Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11524721777391883236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2580297051840846397.post-78015015371979598522017-04-06T11:19:00.004+01:002017-04-06T11:19:46.909+01:00Navigation Skills Training Courses in Scotland. Glen Coe. Monday 27th March 2017.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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After his weekend in Glen Coe providing a Winter Skills/Winter Walking Course for Matt & Ellie, Iain had another course booked in for the next two day in the area.<br />
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<a href="http://www.cuhwc.org.uk/">Cambridge University Hill-walking Club</a> have used our services for the last two years to provide an annual <a href="http://www.blog.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/2015/06/scrambling-skills-training-courses-in_15.html">Scrambling Skills Training in The Lake District</a> and they decided to book a <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/winter-skills-training-courses/">Winter Skills Training Course</a> to be run by us during their half term week in March. Unfortunately, this also coincided with the end of decent winter conditions in the area - not that there had really been any decent conditions all winter it would seem!<br />
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Therefore we had to offer an alternative training course for this group of ten people; and appreciating the situation, they were happy to accept a two day <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/navigation-courses-tuition/">Navigation Skills Training Course</a> - right from the front door of their accommodation (the SMC Lagangarbh Climbing Hut) at the head of Glen Coe.<br />
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Iain & Rich - our assistant instructor for the two days, met the group and split then into two. Iain took his group of five (photo one) and headed up on to the slopes of nearby Beinn a' Chrulaiste.<br />
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We started the groups Navigation Skills Training Course by discussing orientating the map to align it to the landscape - thus allowing us to identify features more easily. We also discussed the differences between the 1:25 and 1:50'000 map scales that we commonly use.<br />
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We then learnt how to measure distance on the map and pace it out on the ground before starting our journey - initially following a fence as a linear feature looking for tick off features such as fence/wall junctions or streams intersecting our route. Time soon went by and by the time photo two was taken, we had learnt how to find eight figure grid references and had used one of the previously mentioned streams to "handrail" up to this small pool of water (an attack point) before taking a bearing to a nearby spot height (summit). All good textbook Navigation Skills work.<br />
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By this time, we were into the afternoon and the group's first day of Navigation Skills Training was due to end at 5pm, but the group asked if we could get a mountain top in? Of course this was no problem. The summit of Beinn a' Chrulaiste was a mere 1375 metres away - in a straight line that was!<br />
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Iain got the group to take a bearing to the summit from our spot height and then walk - looking for features that were in line with the direction of travel arrow on their compasses; in a straight line, to the summit (photo three). Fortunately, the weather was very good; as was the visibility, but 1.375 kilometres is a very long leg and even a very small error in a bearing can lead to one being a long way off the mark when arriving at the intended destination. However, we were a mere 30 metres to the south of the summit after walking all that way. Now that's excellent Navigation Skills!<br />
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By the time we reached the summit of Ben a' Chrulaiste, it was approaching 4pm, so we had to turn and hike back fairly rapidly along the route we had come.<br />
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Just below the summit, we found a large patch of old snow and as the group had been given a helmet each and had brought ice axes - just in case. They couldn't resist, just for a laugh, having their photo taken in the Ice Axe Arrest position. Not sure if Jilles thought he was flying or just tripping over Erin who was laid down in the snow! The group were a lot of fun to work with.<br />
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<b>This group enjoyed their Navigation Skills Training Day in Scotland with Iain and learnt a lot of useful new skills which we hoped would help them with their future hikes into the area's mountains during their week-long stay at Lagangarbh. It was fortunate that we could be so flexible and come up with an alternative plan for the group; and Iain would further demonstrate that flexibility the next day by taking three of this group elsewhere for some Scrambling Skills Training in Glen Coe - but that's another story.</b><br />
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<b>For details of how we can assist with your Hill-Walking or University Mountaineering Club's Outdoor Skills Development Plan <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/contact/">contact us here</a>. We look forward to working with you.</b>Iain Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11524721777391883236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2580297051840846397.post-13394215136332651902017-04-05T21:40:00.000+01:002017-04-05T21:40:02.520+01:00Guided Winter Walking day in Glen Coe. Sunday 26th March 2017.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Day two of Matt & Ellie's Winter Skills Training Course in Scotland dawned just as fine as the previous day. Once again, there had been a light frost in the glens, but temperatures were due to be between 6 and 9 degrees C at 900m. This did not bode well for the remaining snow cover.<br />
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The view as we set off from the upper car park in Glen Coe, was absolutely stunning (photo one). Our intention was to head to the back of "The Lost Valley" (Coire Gabhail) where Iain had noticed a large bowl of snow well sheltered from the sunlight. Surely there, we would find old Neve - ideal for covering the remainder of the pair's Winter Skills Syllabus.<br />
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An hour later, we reached the floor of Coire Gabhail - a flat area of grassed over alluvium created after the valley floor was dammed by a massive landslide from the east face of Gear Aonach. This massive rock fall is famous for the apparently impenetrable barrier that was created and it was behind here that the MacDonald Clan hid their livestock from the marauding Campbells during the famous <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Massacre_of_Glencoe">Glen Coe Massacre</a> of 1692.<br />
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The effect of the sun further up the valley beyond Ellie & Matt is evident in as much as there was loads of snow on the slopes of Beinn Fhada to the left; and virtually no snow at all on the south east facing slopes of Gearr Aonach to the right. Our objective was the snow right at the head of the valley under the obvious col.<br />
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Arriving at this area well over an hour later, Iain quickly gave up any idea of being able to complete Matt & Ellie's Winter Skills Training Course. Whilst there was a considerable amount of snow at the head of Coire Gabhail, there was up to a foot of fresh, slightly consolidated and stable wind-slab from the snowfall the previous week lying on top of the old hard neve and clearing it would have been a mammoth task. As it happened, Matt & Ellie were just happy to be out enjoying another great day in the mountains. Photo three sees Ellie as we approached the Bealach Dearg (col) at the head of Coire Gabhail with the intention to now summit the nearby top of Bidean Nam Bian (1150m) - Glen Coe's highest mountain.<br />
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Moments after photo three was taken, we would step out over the cornice at the Bealach Dearg and out of the shade. The temperature went up by some ten degrees C almost instantly and whereas minutes before we were in cold shadow amongst snow with runnels of ice amongst the rocks, we were now on grass and dry rock with hardly a hint of snow to the south.<br />
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We trudged up the ridge towards the summit of Bidean Nam Bian and it was like being in The Alps in mid-Summer - no wind; and people walking towards us in their shirt sleeves using ski poles and sunglasses. The view from the top of Bidean (photo four) was just amazing. The tops of Arran were visible due south as was Ben More on Mull; and way out west one could see The Cuillin Ridge and Blaven. Up here it felt like mid-Summer and not later Winter...not at all!<br />
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After enjoying the views and having a well earned rest, we descended due north into the couloir dropping into the very head of Coire Gabhail from the summit of Bidean Nam Bian (photo five).<br />
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Here, we did find the right sort of snow for a Winter Skills Course, but it was much too steep an angle to be safe for ice axe braking or covering any other part of the syllabus. However, it was good for Matt & Ellie to be able to put into practice some of the skills learnt the previous day by reverse daggering down the initial steeper part whilst kicking steps before we "heel plunged" the rest of the way into the upper corrie.<br />
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The way down into the head of Coire Gabhail became progressively more arduous as the snow cover became progressively thinner and more broken and we were getting quite tired by the time we reached that main path to the valley bottom.<br />
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That considerable melt of the remaining snow-pack had taken place was evidenced by the amount of water going over this fall in the final photograph of the day as the third stream of water nearest Ellie & Matt had not been there in the morning and as we reached the valley floor, the stream there was clearly bigger in volume and flowing further out on to the alluvial flat than it had been when we were there earlier in the day.<br />
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Iain had been unable to deliver the complete Winter Skills Syllabus for Matt & Ellie due to the unseasonably warm weather, but hey! they were more than happy to have enjoyed a good winter walking day with plenty of variety in one of Scotland's most famous mountaineering areas.<br />
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We arrived back at the Mondeo at 7pm and were truly amazed to find the ambient temperature gauge reading 15 degrees C - now that's a Summer temperature in this part of the world.<br />
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<b>Matt & Ellie paid just £80 each for their Winter Walking Day in Scotland with Iain; and fully intend to return next Winter to finish off the core Winter Skills Syllabus with us. We've advised them to book their course for early to mid February next time. Interested in joining one of our Scottish Winter Skills Courses next year? Keep an eye out on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/outdoor.mountain.courses">the Facebook page</a> and the blog; and <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/contact/">contact us here</a> to book your place. We look forward to working with you.</b>Iain Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11524721777391883236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2580297051840846397.post-90384189072333572172017-04-04T23:05:00.000+01:002017-04-04T23:05:24.330+01:00Winter Skills Training Courses in Scotland. Glen Coe, March 25th 2017.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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A little over a week ago, we were in Scotland for the first time in 2017. The intention - to run a <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/winter-skills-training-courses/">Winter Skills Training Course</a> for Matt Bishop & Eleanor Good pictured here in photo one. As you'll see from all of the photos, the weather was just great - but Matt in a T shirt at 1800 feet; and with all of that snow around! What was going on? Well, the weather was all wrong to be truthful. The temperature was probably about 10 - 12 degrees C at the time photo one was taken!<br />
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Scotland has seen it's mildest winter ever this year; and despite a dump of fresh snow the previous week, the generally "above freezing temperatures" had resulted in few deposits of Neve - that's old hard snow which has resulted from a series of freeze/thaw cycles; and it was this we were looking for in order to run any Winter Skills Courses.<br />
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We did find some Neve on Buachaille Etive Beag in a popular area that we last used two winters ago. Just below the Bealach (col) between Stob Coire Raineach and spot height 902 is a north west facing bowl that often gets used by groups for Winter Skills Courses. Iain spotted a shaded bank of snow and after a short period of "bulldozing" was able to uncover an area of Neve buried under six inches of recent soft snow that was ideal for "Daggering" (photo two). This skill is commonly used for ascending or descending a steep bank of Neve which is hard enough to just kick steps into whilst pushing the pick of the axe into the hard snow to give security whilst moving up or down such ground.<br />
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Our patch of Neve was only some ten feet wide by some 30 feet in length, but we certainly put it to good use.<br />
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As well as Daggering here, we also had a go at the basic technique of Ice Axe Braking - this is useful if one slips and starts to slide on hard snow or ice.<br />
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The Ice Axe is held diagonally under the chest with one hand over the head of the axe and the other holding the bottom end (spike) of the axe. By pressing the axe into the snow using the weight of ones chest to press on to the shaft; and pressing the pick in to the snow; one can slow to a halt quickly. Ellie is lying in the typical ice axe braking position - feet up to prevent crampons catching in the snow, knees pressing down, back arched, chest pressing on the ice axe which she is pulling down under her chest. The head of the ice axe is pulled in to her right shoulder and she looks away from the adze (part of the axe head) so that if the axe bounces out of the snow it doesn't hit her in the face. Good skills!<br />
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We also had a chance to practice a few snow belays whilst at this particular location. In photo three Ellie is sat in a bucket seat having just brought Matt up to her location using a body belay.<br />
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This type of belay is the most basic form and should only be used on grade one or two winter ground - ie very easy slopes. The integrity of such belays can be markedly improved if they are used in conjunction with a buried ice axe or a "Deadman" (a type of wedge shaped Aluminium plate that is buried in the snow)<br />
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We practiced setting up a buried axe anchor and also a reinforced buried axe testing both for strength. We also set up a snow bollard (photo four) which can be used as an anchor; or as a means with which to abseil down a steep slope and then be able to retrieve the climbing rope afterwards.<br />
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Snow bollards vary from the very large (3 metres across) to the very small - usually known as an ice bollard and the strength of the medium determines the size. A bollard is a horseshoe shaped structure with the arms facing downhill and the lip around the top is cut downwards to act as purchase for the rope which is looped around the whole structure at it's mid point. Either end is thrown down the slope (with an overhand knot in each "tail" to prevent one abseiling off the end of the rope. Once people have abseiled down then the rope can be retrieved by pulling on one side - make sure you take the overhand knot out of the other side though - you don't want it to "jam" in the bollard!!<br />
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As with all of our Skills Training Courses, it is amazing how quickly time goes by! Having started Winter Skills at about 10:30 am, we soon got to 3pm and there was still much to do. We had, by this time, pretty well destroyed the surface of our ten foot by thirty foot Neve patch, but there was another nearby gully containing a steep bank of snow in which Iain reckoned it would be possible to dig a snow-hole.<br />
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We set to - going straight into the bank; and in no time, Iain & Matt had dug out a chamber going in about five feet; and being about 12 feet wide by 3 feet high. If you are "benighted" in the mountains in winter, then being able to dig your own snow hole may mean the difference between surviving; or freezing to death! People are always amazed by how warm and sheltered you are in a snow-hole. In photo six, Matt emerges whilst Ellie looks on.<br />
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At about 4:30 pm, we packed up and prepared to leave the site of day one of our Scottish Winter Skills Course in Glen Coe (photo seven).<br />
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The weather was warm in the sun and as you'll see if you compare the snow on the distant Aonach Eagach Ridge in photo six as compared to the first photo, a significant amount of snow had melted away on that ridge during the course of the day. Save for the snow, there was nothing else winter-like about the weather today - it really felt like Spring had arrived in the high mountains. We would go hunting for more Neve the next day!<br />
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<b>Our Scottish Winter Skills Training Courses can be run in the west in the Glen Coe area; or in the Northern Corries of The Cairngorms. The cost for these two days courses ranges from £80 per person per day to as little as £50 per person per day depending on your group size. We do also run Winter Skills Training Courses in other locations such as The Lake District if suitable conditions exist. Contact Iain <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/contact/">here</a> to enquire. We look forward to working with you.</b>Iain Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11524721777391883236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2580297051840846397.post-49874688933437230832017-03-16T18:27:00.003+00:002017-03-16T18:34:36.370+00:00Make the most of your Easter Holiday in the Lake District - book an adventure with us!<br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet" , "trebuchet ms" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.65px; letter-spacing: normal;">The Easter Holidays are about to begin. Have you have decided to visit The Lake District with your family? Wondering what to do? There are a great many different activities you can do here - but where do you start?</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet" , "trebuchet ms" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.65px; letter-spacing: normal;"><b>Why not start by booking your Easter Family Adventures with us! This Easter, we are offering children under 15 the opportunity to try out our activity sessions for just £30 per child for a half day or just £50 each for a full day of activities. This offer is open to <u>family </u><u>groups</u> <u>only!</u></b></span></div>
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<b>This makes our activity packages exceptionally good value for families this Easter Holiday!</b></div>
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So what sort of adventures could you have with us during this holiday? Read on to get the full picture!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0NkOLXaFrj4/VRVhcOyBN7I/AAAAAAAAhwk/ypYP_xSexJ4/s1600/Guided%2BHillwalking%2B%26%2BScrambling%2Bin%2BThe%2BLake%2BDistrict.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; color: #968a0a; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0NkOLXaFrj4/VRVhcOyBN7I/AAAAAAAAhwk/ypYP_xSexJ4/s1600/Guided%2BHillwalking%2B%26%2BScrambling%2Bin%2BThe%2BLake%2BDistrict.JPG" style="border-width: 0px;" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 13.65px;">The areas is famous for its Hill Walking, Rock Climbing, Lakes and Rivers and with </span><b style="font-size: 13.65px;"><a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/" style="color: #968a0a;">Kendal Mountaineering Services</a></b><span style="font-size: 13.65px;">, you and your family can enjoy adventures in all of these places.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 13.65px;">Take <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/activities/guided-walks/" style="color: #968a0a;">Hill Walking</a> and <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/activities/scrambling/" style="color: #968a0a;">scrambling</a> for example - like the people in the photo who are tackling one one the Lake Districts famous scrambles - Sharp Edge en route to the summit of Blencathra which is one of The Lake Districts best known mountains.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 13.65px;">We know the best routes up all of the Lake District Mountains so if you fancy being guided up the mountain of your choice such as Scafell Pike, Helvellyn, Skiddaw or Great Gable contact us to arrange your guided hill walking adventure. </span><b style="font-size: 13.65px;">Prices start at just £75.00 each for two persons with your own Hill Walking guide for a full (eight hour) day out in the mountains. Children under 15 can do this for £50 each!</b><br />
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<span style="font-size: 13.65px;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: 13.65px;">Fancy trying a wet activity this Easter Holiday? Do you like the thought of seeing the great views from one of the areas many lakes rather than just looking from the shore? Then how about spending a half day or even a full day out with us in a <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/activities/canoeing/" style="color: #968a0a;">Canadian Canoe</a></span><span style="font-size: 13.65px;"> or in your very own <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/activities/kayaking/" style="color: #968a0a;">Kayak</a></span><span style="font-size: 13.65px;">?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 13.65px;">Canadian Canoeing - pictured right, is great fun for all the family and you can all have just as much much as these children were having seen here in photo two - warmly kitted out in wet suits and buoyancy aids to keep you afloat if you want to jump into the Lake!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 13.65px;">In one of our Lake District Kayaking Sessions - you'll get your very own boat to paddle if you don't want to share with someone else, so that you can have that freedom to go where you want - provided you stay in sight & sound our our instructors for safety!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 13.65px;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: 13.65px;">Kayaks are great fun on rivers where they are more manoeuvrable and if you've proved yourself capable of handling one of these on flat water then we'll take you on an easy section of moving water just to gain the experience!</span><br />
<b style="font-size: 13.65px;"><br /></b><b style="font-size: 13.65px;">Prices for Kayaking or Open Canoeing sessions in The Lake District start at £45 per person for a four hour half day session, children under 15 can do this for just £30 each. These sessions include the provision of wets suits, buoyancy aids, cagoules, Canoes or Kayaks and paddles</b><span style="font-size: 13.65px;">.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 13.65px;">Perhaps you fancy the idea of <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/activities/ghyll-scrambling/" style="color: #968a0a;">Ghyll Scrambling</a> or <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/activities/canyoning/" style="color: #968a0a;">Canyoning</a> in The Lake District on your visit this Easter? There are loads of fantastic mountain streams that you can get in and walk up whilst being guided by our instructors.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 13.65px;">We provide you with wet suits, cagoules, walking boots, helmets & harnesses for your Ghyll Scrambling & Canyoning Sessions with us to keep you comfortable as you make your way upstream swimming through pools and climbing up waterfalls - roped if necessary to keep you safe. These sessions are great family fun for children & adults alike and if you fancy something more adventurous and challenging then try one of our canyoning descents where we descend a gorge - abseiling or jumping down waterfalls into the deep pools below.</span><br />
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<b style="font-size: 13.65px;">Our half day (four hour) Ghyll Scrambling & Canyoning Sessions start at £45 per person (children under 15 - £30) and are a great way to spend part of a day during your Easter Holiday visit to The Lake District.</b><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MbXR2_e1mTs/VRVi4KaVYTI/AAAAAAAAhxI/zokRC0bN9qo/s1600/Introductory%2BCaving%2BSessions%2Bin%2Bthe%2BYorkshire%2BDales%2BNational%2BPark.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; color: #968a0a; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MbXR2_e1mTs/VRVi4KaVYTI/AAAAAAAAhxI/zokRC0bN9qo/s1600/Introductory%2BCaving%2BSessions%2Bin%2Bthe%2BYorkshire%2BDales%2BNational%2BPark.JPG" style="border-width: 0px;" width="239" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 13.65px;">If you fancy trying something different this Easter - then let us take you </span><a href="http://www.blog.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/2011/11/whole-day-caving-sessions-in-yorkshire.html" style="color: #968a0a; font-size: 13.65px;">Caving in the Yorkshire Dales National Park</a><span style="font-size: 13.65px;">. If you are staying in The Lake District then it's closer than you think - being a mere half hour drive from Kendal or 40 minutes from Windermere.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 13.65px;">We will provide you with caving over-suits, wellington boots and helmets with caving lamps - all you need is old clothing, some thick socks and a change of underwear and towels - just in case you get wet!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 13.65px;">We will introduce you to the delights of Caving underground in places such as Long Churns with it's famous (or infamous) squeeze called The Cheese Press and Babtistry Crawl with its fantastic Limestone formations. You can try out climbing the waterfall at Doctor Bannister's Washbasin and if you don't like small spaces then there are always bigger passageways around the tight sections.</span><br />
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<b style="font-size: 13.65px;">Prices start at £45 for a half day (4 hour) caving session with us or £75 for a full eight hour day underground. Again on this occasion, Children under 15 can enjoy their half day session for £30 or £50 for a full day of caving.</b><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ehimL2m4Lvo/VRVi6_cvG8I/AAAAAAAAhxQ/12gYrcRNXdY/s1600/Beginners%2B%2BRock%2BClimbing%2BSessions%2Bin%2BThe%2BLake%2BDistrict.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; color: #968a0a; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ehimL2m4Lvo/VRVi6_cvG8I/AAAAAAAAhxQ/12gYrcRNXdY/s1600/Beginners%2B%2BRock%2BClimbing%2BSessions%2Bin%2BThe%2BLake%2BDistrict.JPG" style="border-width: 0px;" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 13.65px;">And finally, The Lake District is famous for its crags making it a great place to get out rock climbing this Easter. Not tried it before? then come along to one of our <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/activities/climbing/" style="color: #968a0a;">Introductory Climbing Sessions</a> where you will be kitted up with a helmet & harness and attached to a climbing rope before starting to climb on real rock.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 13.65px;">All of these sessions are 100% safe - you cannot fall and our instructors will be on hand to make sure that you are kept safe throughout a climbing session where you will be able to challenge your fear of heights and gain new skills and confidence - great for children & adults alike! </span><b style="font-size: 13.65px;">Our half day introductory climbing sessions start at a mere £45 per person for a full four hours climbing (children under 15 - £30) and with all of our Adventure Activities in The Lake District this Easter, the more of you come, the cheaper it will be.</b><br />
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<a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/enquiries/" style="color: #968a0a; font-size: 13.65px;">Contact us</a><span style="font-size: 13.65px;"> at </span><b style="font-size: 13.65px;">Kendal Mountaineering Services</b><span style="font-size: 13.65px;"> to arrange your Adventure Activities in The Lake District this Easter - we look forward to working with you.</span></div>
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Iain Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11524721777391883236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2580297051840846397.post-85443671148206605462017-03-16T17:10:00.000+00:002017-03-16T17:10:04.126+00:00Guided Fell Walking in The Lake District. Climbing Scafell Pike. March 15th, 2016<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Yesterday, Iain drove over to Wasdale to provide a day of guided walking on Scafell Pike - on what would turn out to be the best day of this week!<br />
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Debbie (in the green jacket) and Jane had travelled over to the area for a short break in a lovely little cottage near Nether Wasdale. They had decided that they wished to hire a guide to climb Scafell Pike and contacted us.<br />
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Photo one shows the pair at a viewpoint next to Wast Water. The lake was like a mirror, it was so calm. It looked like it was going to be a lovely day!<br />
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Iain drove the pair to Wasdale Head where we parked up before heading in the direction of Styhead Pass. Rather than going up & down the quick & steep way via Lingmell Gill and Brown Tongue, Iain offered the pair a circular route which would provide them with constantly changing scenery.<br />
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Photo two sees Jane and Debbie about half an hour after we had set off from Wasdale Head on their <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/hill-walking/">Guided Fell Walk in The Lake District</a> - just as we crossed the footbridge over Gable Beck. Our Objective - Styhead Pass, is the gap in the mountains beyond!<br />
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We continued up the bridleway towards Styhead Pass. The cloud was still low over the mountains, but it was starting to lift on the Scafell side of the valley; although it never completely cleared from Great Gable during our Fell Walking Day.<br />
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Photo three was taken about an hour & a half later as we continued on our Guide Fell Walking Day in The Lake District. It had taken a little over an hour to reach Styhead Pass where we were assailed by a rather bitter breeze coming up from Wasdale. We had a brief break here for refreshments and a chat with other walkers heading up Scafell Pike and Great Gable and then set off up The Corridor Route - this is where we are in photo three.<br />
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The "Corridor Route" is one of the classic ways up or down England's highest mountain. It is particularly useful if the weather is inclement as it is generally, the most sheltered route on the mountain.<br />
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The Corridor Route starts near to Styhead Pass. Many people choose to walk 500 metres SE on the route to Sprinkling Tarn/Esk Hause first before turning west. However, for those in "the know" there is a more direct route straight to the path, joining, near to where it crosses Skew Gill.<br />
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After a short descent across Spout Head; and across the foot of Skew Gill (an impressive looking ravine), the path rises in a series of steps and traverses all to way to Lingmell Col. Here, one meets the junction with the path coming up from Brown Tongue/Lingmell Gill and the continuation up the northern flank to the summit.<br />
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Along the Corridor Route, there is an interesting descent down a groove and rocky slabs (photo four) as one enters the hanging valley from where Greta Gill emerges. As Scafell Pike hadn't emerged from the cloud by this time; and Iain predicted that we wouldn't want to "hang around" at the summit, we enjoyed lunch here, before continuing on to Lingmell Col.<br />
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Above the junction between The Corridor Route and the Brown Tongue path, the way on is very rocky. In fact the top 200 metres of Scafell Pike is just a gigantic rubble slope.<br />
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We were now in the cloud and back in the cold breeze, both Jane and Debbie found the final part of the ascent quite tough, but we completed this part of our Guided Fell Walk in The Lake District in about 45 minutes.<br />
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Photo Five sees the pair both relieved and exhilarated at their success in reaching the summit of England's highest mountain.<br />
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It was quite surprising how many people were up there when we arrived given the weather. Mind you - it was just cold, not wet! Shortly after we reached the summit, a couple of fell-runners arrived having run the 11.2 miles all the way from the Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel in Langdale via Esk Hause accompanied by the wee dog in the red jacket; and they intended to turn about and retrace their steps! Rather them than us!<br />
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Whilst the final 200 metres of our ascent and descent of Scafell pike was the chilliest part of the pair's guided Fell Walking Day in The Lake District, the lack of real winter conditions were in evidence on this - England's highest mountain!<br />
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Snow patches were visible on the upper north west slope above Piers Gill on the walk in, but it wasn't until were were within 200 metres walking distance from the summit did we actually happen across any snow at all. Iain made a point of taking a photo of Debbie & Jane next to this patch on our descent.<br />
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The Lake District has to have seen it's mildest winter ever this year. OK - we were out of the country for eight weeks of it, but even so, we have seen very little snow in the mountains this winter when we've been around! This is in stark contrast to Iain's childhood when the upper part of Scafell Pike would have been encased in snow and ice until probably well in to May. Global warming is happening apace; and it's very worrying for those of us who love winter.<br />
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And down in the valleys here, it really feels like Spring has started.<br />
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Many of the roadside Daffodils are in full bloom already, quite a lot of Hawthorn has fully sprouted and the birds are singing their heads off. Spring in The Lake District is always a wondrous time, but this year it is early - much to early!<br />
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We set off down from the top of Scafell Pike and just below the junction with The Corridor Route path, found ourselves out of the cloud where it was noticeably warmer. By the time we reached Hollow Stones - the piles of moraine just above Brown Tongue, there was no wind at all.<br />
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The cloud was finally clearing from both Scafell Pike and Scafell and the view down Lingmell Gill out west over Wast Water to the distant Irish Sea was just stunning. In photo nine we are just leaving Lingmell Gill to head over the shoulder of Lingmell down to Wasdale Head. Behind the pair, the way above leads to Brown Tongue and Scafell Pike in the background.<br />
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Iain added this "end of the day photo" so that you can see the contrast between the weather at the end of the day and at the start. This is the classic Wast Water photo with, (from left to right) Yewbarrow, partially in shadow, Great Gable, still wearing a slight cloud cap, Lingmell leading up right to Scafell Pike and Scafell and the bulk of Wastwater Screes dropping in to the lake.<br />
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Just beautiful!<br />
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<b>Debbie and Jane thoroughly enjoyed their guided Fell Walk with Iain and paid just £80 each for their day out with a knowledgeable and experienced Mountaineering Instructor. They thought it was worth every penny!</b><br />
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<b>Want to enjoy a Guided Fell Walk in The Lake District with us? Then <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/contact/">contact Iain here</a>. The more people in your party, the less it will cost you; and you can be assured of a great day out!</b><br />
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<b>We look forward to working with you.</b>Iain Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11524721777391883236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2580297051840846397.post-24713630443523394532017-03-13T16:44:00.001+00:002017-03-13T16:44:34.398+00:00Stag Events in The Lake District. Ghyll Scrambling Sessions in The Lake District, Friday 10th March 2017.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Last Friday, we were out with our first Stag Group of the year and shared a great <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/ghyll-scrambling-courses/">Ghyll Scrambling</a> experience in Stickle Ghyll with Simon Williams's group of seven.<br />
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Ghyll Scrambling had been booked with us as part of the lads weekend Stag trip off up north from Stoke on Trent. After Ghyll Scrambling with us, they were continuing off up the M6 to Glasgow and we hope that they had a great time up there.<br />
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They certainly enjoyed their Ghyll Scrambling Session in Stickle Ghyll and the weather turned out to be somewhat milder than it could have been at this time of year. We had neoprene wet-socks and gloves prepared for use, but as it happened, it felt more like an early April day last Friday; and with everything else that we gave them, the lads were warm enough!<br />
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We didn't travel very far up Stickle Ghyll before we got to the first obstacle - the lower waterfall.<br />
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There are three ways past this obstacle, the "dry way" which is an easy scramble up a rocky corner well to the left of the waterfall, the "steep" way - a short climb up dry-ish rock to the right of the main fall and the "steep & wet way" which is the way most of our group chose to go today (photo two).<br />
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For climbs such as this, we provide harnesses and people are protected by a tight rope as you climb. As well as enjoying yourself immensely, we want you to stay safe too!<br />
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Above the lower fall, the way on is interspersed with easy sections, some deep pools in which you can get a thorough soaking and a "jump" into the deepest pool if you are feeling hardcore. There are some more sections of easy climbing and scrambling up small waterfalls along the way.<br />
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Not everyone today was keen to get a thorough soaking, but a few of the guys did do the jump! Keen and brave indeed.<br />
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Photo three sees the group at the first obstacle as we entered the upper section of Stickle Ghyll. The waterfall behind them is not a difficult climb although it looks really impressive!<br />
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Our final post from this report about a Stag Party's Ghyll Scrambling Session in The Lake District with us sees one of the team getting roped up the biggest waterfall we climb in Stickle Ghyll. A rope was definitely needed here today as it was quite slippery, but it made for a memorable ghyll scrambling session for sure.<br />
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Above here there are two more possible waterfalls to climb before the way one becomes impassable to all but the most experienced of scramblers. The lads were quite happy to call it a day at this point anyway, so we packed up and headed back to the car park; and after the group had gotten changed we provided a welcome hot drink for the group. <i>"What will it be sir? Tea, Coffee or Hot Chocolate?" </i>Most people go for the hot chocolate, but black coffee seemed to be the favourite today!<br />
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<b>Simon Williams's Stag Group paid just £40 each for their action packed Ghyll Scrambling Session with us in The Lake District. The fee included the provision of wetsuits, cagoules, walking boots and helmets & harnesses for the whole group including two experienced instructors to look after everyone. Today, we also provided a free hot drink at the end of the session and had additional warm kit to hand if it was needed. A free copy of every photograph we take on your session is always included as standard. </b><br />
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<b>All you have to turn up with is swimwear and a long sleeved fleece top if you have it, thick socks to go in the walking boots; and plenty of enthusiasm. We always provide walking boots to protect your feet in the ghyll when many of our competitors expect you to provide your own footwear!</b><br />
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It's getting warmer quite quickly, so Ghyll Scrambling or Canyoning is a great option to get some excitement and a bit of adrenaline on your visit to The Lake District. Our sessions are likely to be popular this coming Easter <a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/contact/">so enquire now and make your booking</a>. We look forward to working with you!Iain Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11524721777391883236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2580297051840846397.post-39870782326679433462017-03-06T21:34:00.000+00:002017-03-06T21:34:00.842+00:00Navigation Skills Training Weekend in The Lake District. March 4th & 5th, 2017.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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At the weekend, Iain was out with the Miller-Page family who had travelled up from Surrey to attend one of our <b>Bespoke Navigation Skills Training weekends in The Lake District</b>.<br />
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The family own a cottage in the area and are regular visitors. They enjoy fell walking, but have experienced a few occasions where they've encountered difficulties with route finding. A bit of online research led the family to four companies offering Navigation Skills Training in The Lake District and we were one of those.<br />
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Seemingly, we presented ourselves in the best way; and the family booked with us. Now that's good news - we must be doing something right!<br />
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Day one was spent up on Green Quarter Fell, just north of Staveley. The weather was surprisingly good considering we were supposedly of the fringe of a low pressure system. We started off in our usual format (<a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/upcoming/">see here</a>) and by the time photo one was taken, we were progressing well with how to find and how to give grid references, helped, in no small part, by the Roamer Scales on our excellent <a href="http://www.mapandcompass.co.uk/Silva-Expedition-4-Compass-79284.aspx?gclid=CjwKEAiArvTFBRCLq5-7-MSJ0jMSJABHBvp0Q8q43T6r_YB8__uewW3bZJu3t0VUAmVnbNarbYgU_hoCM6_w_wcB">Silva Type 4 Expedition Compasses</a> and Iain's method of explanation.<br />
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When photo two was taken, the family had just completed navigating to their first grid reference, by using "Hand-railing", to an "Attack Point" and by pacing from there to the feature (a small tarn) by walking on a bearing. Good Skills!<br />
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After a most successful day one, conducted in perfect dry & calm weather, we were expecting it to be somewhat different on the second day - colder, wetter..definitely not as nice. But it didn't turn out that way.<br />
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We drove further up the valley on day two; and finished up on the east side of Shipman Knotts where Iain pushed the family on to more exacting terrain. In photo three, they had been compelled to transpose from the 1:25 to the 1:50'000 scale map in order to to identify features on the opposite side of Longsleddale because the features were "off" the 1:25'000 laminated map they were using. Again, they were successful in doing this and identifying all features requested by Iain. Marvellous stuff !<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iq8qE12iCzg/WL3MeyMZNpI/AAAAAAAAkWA/x-lJsl_CQ5c8RRJCforJ5Z5XpgA1mCbCACLcB/s1600/Avoiding%2Bthe%2Bshowers%2Bon%2BKentmere%2BPike.%2BNavigation%2BSkills%2BTraining%2BCourses%2Bin%2BThe%2BLake%2BDistrict.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iq8qE12iCzg/WL3MeyMZNpI/AAAAAAAAkWA/x-lJsl_CQ5c8RRJCforJ5Z5XpgA1mCbCACLcB/s320/Avoiding%2Bthe%2Bshowers%2Bon%2BKentmere%2BPike.%2BNavigation%2BSkills%2BTraining%2BCourses%2Bin%2BThe%2BLake%2BDistrict.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Eventually, we arrived at the top of Shipman Knotts and from here, Iain directed the family to find a distant stream head south of Kentmere Pike Summit. Looking south, it was clear that a forecasted front was approaching and that we could, in all likelihood, expect to get a little wet, but somehow, the showers never quite reached us (photo four)<br />
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The family successfully navigated on to the top of Kentmere Pike and then back to Green Quarter locating a further four grid references along the way.<br />
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The Miller-Page Family thoroughly enjoyed their Navigation Skills Training Weekend in The Lake District with us and go away with a whole new "toolbox" of skills with which to enjoy further forays into the mountains with improved confidence; and you can too - by booking your own <b><a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/navigation-courses-tuition/">Bespoke Navigation Skills Training Course</a></b> with us or by booking on to one of our <b><a href="http://www.kendalmountaineeringservices.co.uk/upcoming/">Upcoming Navigation Skills Training Courses</a></b> - but hurry! Our March Course is almost full and the others are filling up fast!<br />
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We look forward to working with you in the mountains.Iain Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11524721777391883236noreply@blogger.com0