Lake District Striding Edge Classic
20 people attending
0 places left
5 people waitlisted
An absolute classic Lakes walk from Patterdale taking in the famous Striding Edge to reach the summit of England's third highest peak, Helvellyn. This walk involves some grade 1 scrambling on steep ground on ascent and descent and is exposed in places. You will need a head for heights. It's about 8 miles and some 900m of ascent, taking in Catstye Cam summit too.
We will return via Swirral Edge.
Instead of heading out just after breakfast with the hoards of hikers, we'll be setting off around lunchtime. This way we won't feel like we're on a conveyor belt, where you can't pause to enjoy the drama of the landscape. We'll have time and space to enjoy it all to the max.
As well as a ridge walk, which is exposed, for much (not all) of it there is a slightly lower path with exposure on just one side. There is a scramble from the end of the ridge up to Helvellyn's summit plateau.
Here, weather permitting, we can relax and enjoy panoramic, 360° views.
Returning via Swirral Edge requires a little more scrambling. It might be tempting to have a paddle in Red Tarn on the way back on a warm June afternoon (fingers crossed!!).
We should be back in Glenridding by about 6pm.
Anyone looking for overnight accommodation will have plenty of options in Glenridding and Patterdale, including hotel and BnB. For YHA accommodation try Patterdale or Helvellyn. There's a very handy camp site at Gillside Farm too, check out their website.
IMPORTANT! - Participation Statement
You MUST complete a Participation Statement, in addition to booking your event space before attending an OutdoorLads event. You only need to complete this Participation Statement once, not for each event you attend.
All photos taken by Rob Mitchell and used with permission.
What to bring
Hand sanitiser and a face covering: whilst we are living with Covid-19, please bring your own to events to help keep everyone safe
Water: bring at least two litres in a water bottle, or better still, a hydration bladder
Medicines: if you have hay fever, diabetes, minor ailments etc.
Day Rucksack: typically 20-30 litres, they are comfortable to wear and allow you to use your arms freely
Waterproof bags: keep spare clothing, electronics and anything else dry even when your rucksack leaks by using Ziploc type food bags or, better still, outdoor activity waterproof bags
Boots: waterproof and breathable hiking boots with good ankle support
Gaiters: recommended for wet weather or boggy conditions
Socks: proper walking socks will keep your feet dry and help prevent blisters, and carry a spare, dry pair
Walking Poles: always optional, love them or hate them, but give them a try and decide for yourself
Layered clothing: lets you quickly adapt to changes in the weather and body temperature. Go for a base layer (vest or t-shirt) and a mid layer (a micro fleece or shirt) and in cooler weather add an outer layer (a windproof jacket or thick fleece)
Trousers: no jeans as they become heavy and cold in the rain, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry and on warm days shorts are OK
Waterproof jacket: essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry.
Gloves: Windproof, or better still, waterproof gloves are the best choice, bring a spare pair if expecting rain.
Hat or cap: stay warm in winter and shaded in summer
Sunglasses: for any sunny day, even in winter
Sun cream: ESSENTIAL!
Snacks: bring biscuits, energy bars, gels, bananas, chocolate or dried fruit for example and put them somewhere easy to get hold of
Lunch: bring a packed lunch unless otherwise stated
Emergency equipment: the walk leader will bring any emergency equipment required for the group, but you are welcome to bring any that you have, such as additional high energy food, a survival bag, a whistle, a medical kit, a torch and something to make fire (either storm proof matches or a firelighter
Map and compass: the walk leader will have these, but if you like map reading or want to develop your skills, bring yours along
Mobile Phone: keep it in a waterproof bag for use in emergencies, and a spare battery/charger is a good idea
Food & drink
Bring food, snacks and plenty of water. Refreshments available in Glenridding before and after the walk.