BSC2019: Mountain Scramble - Llech Ddu Spur (Saturday 09:30)
12 people attending
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This event is ONLY SUITABLE for those who have done some proper mountain walks before: Wales, Lakes, Scotland etc, the Spur section is a grade 1 scramble and thought not overly technical you'll need to have a good head for heights - see this video to give you an idea!
This walk requires a drive of around 30mins to Bethesda, we will arrange car sharing in the morning.
Tucked away on the much quieter Carneddau, this area of Snowdonia can, quite literally, feel like a world away from Snowdon and its illustrious neighbours. However, just because far fewer people have heard of it, don’t jump to the conclusion that it’s inferior. It’s sublime.
From Bethesda we head out onto a circular route which starts by walking into a beautiful mountain valley with the peaks hopefully clear infront of us and the spur to the right. Once at the end of the valley the Llech Ddu Spur will look imposing
On first look, Llech Ddu Spur can look insurmountable. However, by following a faint path to the right of the ridge, you’ll soon make out a series of zigzags that will lead you up to the white quartzite that marks the start of your scramble. This is where the fun begins. With a wide ridge line in most places and plenty of options to choose from, you be grinning all the way to the top. There are a few easy pinnacles to tackle and a little exposure in places to keep you on your toes. There are plenty of hand and footholds and, despite the scrambling being quite sustained, you’ll be able to develop a nice rhythm. Don’t forget to look back once in a while to take in the splendour of the ridge and valley.
What to bring
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. Trainers not allowed.
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: can be useful even on cloudy and winter days
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
You’ll need to bring lunch with you and snacks to keep the energy up. Don't forget to eat breakfast!! :)
Make sure you have plenty of water & fluids. A flask of something hot is always good on a cold day.
Good Mountain Foods
• Chocolate of course!
• Sunflower seas
• Banana’s
• Nuts & dried fruit
• Energy bars (especially the ones with oats)
At the end of the day if people are up for it we’ll have a drink if everyone’s up for it!