Hiking the Wainwrights: Grasmoor
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Join Rich as he continues to hike the Lake District's Wainwrights. This hike will hit six!
From the car park we will skirt Crummock Water and, if we are lucky, gaze over the bluebell filled Rannerdale valley on our steep way up to our first Wainwright - Rannerdale Knotts (355m). It's summit has stunning views over Crummuck Water and Buttermere. Following the ridge line them up the shoulder of Whiteless Pike (Wainwright #2 660m), and up its edge to Wandope (Wainwright #3 772m). From there we being climbing the highest summit of the day, Grasmoor (Wainwright #4 852m). If the weather is suitable, and the shelters are free, we will stop for lunch there. We will descend to Coledale Hause, regaining the lost height to Hopegill Head (Wainwright #5 770m). We follow the ridge over to Whiteside (Wainwright #6 707m), before finally heading back down to Crummock Water.
This is a challenging route with 1200m of ascent over 16km, taking 6-7 hours depending on the group. As with most mountain walks, there may be times where the route is more exposed, or 'hands-on-rock' are required, though not part of the route is a classified scramble.
The car park is quite small, and it is a popular destination, hence the start time of 9am. Please arrive ready to set off at this time. There is a bus from Cockermouth that arrives at 8:58am.
Dogs are welcome, but must be under control near sheep, and good over rocky, steep, mountainous terrain.
Photo used with permission of Sieh.
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
This is a full day on the fells. Come prepared with plenty of water, snacks (can't go wrong with Jelly Babies in my opinion!), and lunch.