Moel Siabod, Daear Ddu Scramble and Summit Ridge Walk
4 people attending
8 places left
This is a scramble (grade 1) up Moel Siabod (872m) via the Daear Ddu Ridge. From the top we will take a route over the main summit ridge which also offers a scrabling like experience over the large boulder field.
As far as scrambles go, this route offers a first-rate but relatively easy scramble whilst still offering a decent challenge to all but the most experienced, bags of fun and, weather permitting, fantastic views across northern Eryri.
If you have experience walking in the mountains but are new to scrambling then this event could be a perfect way to gain some experience before taking on more challenging scrambles such as Crib Goch or Tryfan.
If you are asking what is a grade 1 scramble, then follow this link to the British Mountaineering Councils' website where they give a good descrption.
Difficulty
Grade 1 scrambling with some exposure to drops. Distance 9km (6 miles). Elevation Gain 770 m (2,500 feet).
A good head for heights, some previous mountain walking experience and a reasonable level of fitness with the right equipment (see list) is necessary to enjoy this event. Previous scrambling experience is not necessary - just the desire to try it.
At a steady and reasonable pace, this walk should take about 5 to 6 hours, allowing time for breaks.
If you are unsure if this walk is suitable for you or have any questions, please message the leader.
Equipment
Please see the kit list below for full suggested equipment list.
Food and plenty of water (2 to 3 litres), Sun protection (hat, cream etc) as there is no shade, Walking boots or approach shoes and waterproofs.
An extra layer or two of warm clothing (fleece, jumper, gloves, hat) to keep warm if we have to stop or whilst walking at a slow speed over difficult ground.
Dogs
Dogs are welcome providing you are confident in your own scrambling ability and you can safely help your dog complete such a walk.
If you are not sure, or this is your first time scrambling, please leave your dog at home for this event. They can always come with us another time. (my dogs will not be coming)
Usual reminder too about keeping dogs under control / on a lead when walking with livestock and there are a few styles and a mountain(!) to get over.
New Members
Please feel free to join this as your first OutdoorLads event. If you have any questions then feel free to message the event leader (click on leaders name below, then send a message), or go to the "My First Event" section under "About Us".
The event is subject to weather conditions on the day. Strong wind will require us to change the route.
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.
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.
Photos:
By Looking Down Daear Ddu by Gareth Jones, CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=107460459otos:
All others taken by event leader; used with permission
What to bring
Standard mountain kit list:
Waterproof Jacket: A good waterproof jacket is one of the most important pieces of kit you will require when hiking to keep you dry in rain and protected against strong wind. Ideally, it should be waterproof and breathable to reduce build up of sweat. Materials such as Gore-Tex™ are often the best choices.
Boots: Hiking boots are arguably the most essential piece of kit when hiking just about anywhere. Walkers should make sure that their boots are both waterproof and breathable and provide good ankle support. Boots should also be in good condition.
Socks: Walking socks are often overshadowed by those new to hiking, with many novices failing to invest in proper socks. Good walking socks are essential to keep the feet dry, and in turn stopping the development of blisters. Sports socks and other socks not designed for walking will often become waterlogged or damaged which will in turn blister feet.
Gaiters: Gaiters attach to the bottom of walking boots and extend to just under the knee. They provide waterproofing for the bottom half of the leg and are essential in keeping the feet dry.
Walking Trousers: Walking trousers should be of a windproof design and made of a rip stop material, that will stand up to walking through ferns and undergrowth. They should also ideally be water resistant, or at least not gain weight, and lose their insulation properties when wet. Jeans are therefore to be avoided, as they are heavy when wet and provide no protection from the elements.
Waterproof Trousers: Waterproof trousers are essential in keeping the legs dry, as water resistant trousers will not keep out any significant rainfall. Walkers should look for waterproof trousers that are breathable, in order to avoid being soaked with sweat.
Base Layer: A breathable base layer should be chosen in order to let sweat escape from the body. This should ideally consist of a breathable synthetic, specially designed fabric, though a cotton T-Shirt is sufficient.
Mid Layer: A Mid Layer goes on top of the base layer and should consist of a 100-weight micro fleece, or a rugby typed thick shirt. The layering system is important as it allows walkers to quickly adapt to changes in the weather as well as body temperature.
Outer Layer: The outer layer should consist of a windproof jacket or a thick fleece. This is the final layer and walkers should ensure that this layer provides ample warmth.
Hat: As most heat is lost through the head a good hat is essential. The best hats are those of a fleece design, with wool also being acceptable.
Gloves: Gloves are essential in the colder months as walkers will require the usage of their fingers for various activities such as map reading. Windproof or better still waterproof gloves are the best choice.
Rucksack: A good Rucksack that is comfortable to wear is essential and required to carry both food and equipment. Day sacks should have a capacity of around 30-40 litres with equipment being placed in waterproof bags or a liner inside. A small peddle bin liner can work well to keep spare clothing dry.
Emergency Equipment: A number of items should be taken in case problems occur whilst walking in the hills. Emergency equipment becomes of greater importance the further from civilisation walkers are. Equipment should include spare food stuffs of high energy, a whistle, a medical kit, a head-torch.
Food & Water: At least two litres of water should be brought for each day hiking. Enough food for the duration of a walk should also be taken. Food should be of the high energy variety.
Head Torch: With full charge or spare batteries.
Map & Compass: Bring a map and compass if you are interested in doing some navigating practice!
Mobile Phone: A mobile phone should also be brought and kept in a waterproof bag for use in emergencies. Turning your phone to airplane mode will increase the battery life as it avoids the phone boosting its singal power searching for a non-existant connection.
Food & drink
Bring something for lunch and snacks to keep you sustained during the walk. 2 to 3 litres of water is recommended.