Night Hike and Summer Soltice Stone Circle Shenanigans
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Something a little bit out of the ordinary for this one...we are planning an evening trip to Castlerigg Stone Circle, near Keswick, to take part in the summer solstice celebrations there. However, we will be adding or own twist on the evening by going on a night hike after sunset. We will then return to the stones before sunrise, to greet the longest day of the year.
The leader will be camping at the Castlerigg Camping and Caravan Site..if you want to stay here too, you will have to make your own booking. some of us will remain in the area on thursday to do some other activities, after maybe getting some more sleep.
20:00 Meet at Castelrigg Farm Camping and Caravan Site and make our way to the stone circle for the suset celebrations
22:00 Head off hiking (Weather/Conditions dependant, but likely High Seat) to return to the valley after midnight
04:00 Return to the stones for the sunrise celebrations
06:00 Head off to work/back to bed
What to bring
In addition to the usual mountain kit (see below), and camping kit, you may want to bring a blanket or just warm clothes for hanging around the stone circle at sunrise/sunset. PLEASE DON'T FORGET HEAD TORCHES!
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 buy/cook your own evening meal before we head to the stones, and bring snack food for the hike. You will need to bring your own breakfast, or try the cafe at Castlerigg campsite.