Gone to the Dodds

Winter Wind Sculpture

Steve ventured out on what seemed likely to be the last day of Winter conditions as the weather turned to the West with impending storms from the Atlantic.  With the wind speeds already very high and the wind chill severe, a walk from Thirlmere up to Sticks Pass and back over the three Dodds and Clough Head was the order of the day.  Visibility was still excellent despite the mini-blizzard of spindrift blasting across the surface.  Only a few competent and appropriately equipped folk were about in these challenging conditions.

Even in the Lake District, the difference between valley conditions and those experienced on the summits can be very significant – as was the case on this day.  If you would like support to venture into such environments safely and with a very experienced guide, Steve will be pleased to help and advise.  Call him on 07796 213817 or email steve@stevebanksoutdoors.co.uk

By |January 22nd, 2024|Environment, Keswick Guided Walks, Mountain, natural history, Winter Mountain Walking|Comments Off on Gone to the Dodds

Blencathra in Winter

Halls Fell Ridge

The recent snow and freezing temperatures led to the winter mountaineering gear being dusted down for a foray up Hallsfell Ridge and down Doddick Fell on Blencathra.  A great walk with fabulous views was had in excellent conditions.

If you’d like support to take advantage of these fleeting winter mountain opportunities either in the Lakes or Scotland, Steve will be pleased to help.  He can ensure that you have the appropriate equipment and, more importantly, know how and when to use it.  He can be contacted on 07796 213817 or by email at steve@stevebanksoutdoors.co.uk

By |January 22nd, 2024|Environment, Keswick Guided Walks, Mountain, natural history, Winter Mountain Walking|Comments Off on Blencathra in Winter

Winter wandering

Langstrath

A sudden return to winter weather with lots of snow and very cold days led to us venturing out on a walk up Langstrath in Borrowdale, rather than enduring the strong and bitterly cold winds on the summits.  Langstrath is an unusual, long Lakeland valley in that is only accessible on foot, this imbues it with a similar feel to that which can be experienced in many valleys of the Scottish Highlands.  At this time of year and in this weather it is possible to also have the place to yourself – a rare pleasure in the Lakes!  On warm Summer days it can be very busy, as visitors flock to Blackmoss Pot (image) to enjoy the deep pool.

Steve offers guided walks all year round in the Lakes and further afield.  If you would like support for your adventures in the mountains and remote valleys please get in touch for a chat.  He’ll be pleased to hear from you and happy to help: 07796 213817 and steve@stevebanksoutdoors.co.uk

By |March 15th, 2023|Environment, Keswick Guided Walks, Mountain, Winter Mountain Walking|Comments Off on Winter wandering

Lake District Winter Walks

Lake District Winter Mountain guiding

We awoke to blue sky and snow on the hills – ideal conditions for a quick sortie up Blencathra!  Halls Fell ridge provided an interesting ascent as the snow had hidden much of the underlying rock, meaning stiff soled winter boots were very handy indeed.  Once on the summit, we were exposed to the NW wind which provided a temperature with windchill of -14C.  Quickly wrapping up in duvets and thicker gloves we enjoyed lunch with a spectacular view before descending via Doddick Fell back to base.

Snow clad mountains and bright blue skies are alluring to many of us, though do require additional skills and knowledge to tackle safely.  Having some winter equipment is very different from being able to use it safely – for example, we regularly see people out in winter with too-long axes strapped on the back of sacks with spikes pointing into the faces of anyone behind them; or wearing crampons when they are more likely to cause a fall rather than prevent one.  Axes should generally be carried spike down and adze forwards on the side of sacks, whilst crampons are rarely needed for walking on the thin, soft and temporary snow we receive in the Lakes.

If you’re keen on venturing into Britain’s winter hills, getting some professional guidance on how to do it safely may actually save you money, as well as from calamity.  Steve has run winter mountaineering courses and skill days for many years and will be very happy to support your snowy adventures.  Get in touch for a chat about your needs: steve@stevebanksoutdoors.co.uk and 07796 213817

By |January 16th, 2023|Keswick Guided Walks, Mountain, Winter Mountain Walking|Comments Off on Lake District Winter Walks

A New Year’s walk

Bleaberry Fell

Apparently endless wet, cold and windy weather over the holiday period was finally broken for a single day on January 2nd.  We grabbed the opportunity to get out and enjoyed the crisp, sunny conditions with a walk over Walla Crag and onto Bleaberry Fell and were rewarded with excellent panoramic views all round.  A great day out!

If you’d like support for any of your mountain adventures Steve will be pleased to help.  Call 07796 213817 or email on steve@stevebanksoutdoors.co.uk

By |January 3rd, 2023|Environment, Keswick Guided Walks, Mountain, Winter Mountain Walking|Comments Off on A New Year’s walk

Winter walking in the Lake District

Lakes Winter Walking

Winter has arrived and with it the opportunity to get out into the snowy mountains.  If you’re interested in going out mountain walking in the Lakes in winter conditions but don’t feel confident to do so, Steve will be happy to provide support and guidance for groups of up to 4.  Please call to discuss your needs – Steve will be pleased to hear from you.  07796 213817

By |December 4th, 2020|Keswick Guided Walks, Mountain, Winter Mountain Walking|Comments Off on Winter walking in the Lake District
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