Great Gable from Seathwaite
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A 12 mile circular walk to the summit of one of England's iconic mountains, taking in 4 Wainwrights.
From the road end at Seathwaite, we quickly leave the main path and crowds behind, climbing steeply to Base Brown via the Hanging Stone with marvellous views of the valley below. On reaching the summit, we continue over Green Gable with fabulous views down into wild Ennerdale and then drop down to Windy Gap to start a short easy scramble to the summit of Great Gable itself with views opening up over Wasdale. After enjoying the summit, we continue with a steep and rocky descent to Beck Head and climb to Kirk Fell, our fourth and final Wainwright, for great views back to the Gable. From there, we return via Windy Gap and Styhead Tarn, having had a fabulous day in the mountains of central Lakeland.
This is a lengthy mountain walk with considerable height gain (1000m) and some exposure and scrambling, so please be confident of your fitness and ability before signing up.
All photos are leader's own.
IMPORTANT! - Participation Statement
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Anyone with COVID-19 symptoms, even if they are extremely mild, or who has recently tested positive for Covid-19, is asked not to attend.
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
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 will need to bring a packed lunch and plenty of water (at least 2 litres). Please note there are no facilities, shops or cafes at the start or en route. Nearest facilities are Keswick.