On (Hen) Cloud Nine
18 people attending
2 places left
1 person waitlisted
A winter's walk in the new year, taking in the views to the West over Macclesfield and Cheshire, and to the East of the Peak District. There are a few climbs on the route, but we have plenty of time to take these at an easier pace.
We start by heading through the woods and up to Lud's Church, an old meeting place for outlawed religions. This great chasm is not one to be missed.
From here we emerge out of the forest on the the Roaches, a long ridge on the edge of the Peak District. Over five clouds and on to Hen Cloud, a distinctive small peak which marks our turning point.
We head back a slightly different route, finishing after 14.5km (588m of ascent).
Meeting at 9.45 for a 10am start. Should take around 5 hours with breaks and photo opportunities!
Pub after for a well deserved drink!
Photos:
Hens Cloud, The Roaches
cc-by-sa/2.0 - © Brian Deegan - geograph.org.uk/p/5091256
Lud's Church
cc-by-sa/2.0 - © Oliver Dixon - geograph.org.uk/p/198567
The Roaches - lower tier
cc-by-sa/2.0 - © Richard Law - geograph.org.uk/p/1482644
What to bring
Water: bring at least two litres
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
Boots: waterproof and breathable and designed for hiking, trainers are OK if the ground is dry and there’s little chance of rain
Gaiters: recommended for wet weather or boggy conditions
Socks: proper walking socks will keep your feet dry and help prevent blisters
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: ideally 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
Food & drink
2 litres of water
Hot drink - it's winter after all!
Food for lunch along the route