July 10th & 11th, 2010
This excellent scrambling weekend offers the novice the opportunity to try some classic grade 1 routes in the Lake District to get a feel for what it’s all about. So long as you have a reasonable head for heights you will not fail to be inspired by these wonderful days on the hill!
What is Scrambling?
Scrambling requires you to use your hands to climb short sections of rock in order to get up steep ground. Normally it’s not so technical that you need rock climbing equipment, but you should get the ‘willies’ when you look over your shoulder and take in the view below!
Scrambles are graded from 1 to 3, with a grade 1 scramble being pleasantly exposed to height and usually being easy to escape. All scrambles can take you out of your comfort zone, and if you are usually nervous at height it is possibly not for you. Grade 2 and 3 scrambles are more committing with grade 3 routes requiring some basic climbing moves. A leader will always carry a rope when taking a group scrambling and would expect to use it with a grade 3 route - such would be its technical nature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need strong upper body strength?
No you don’t – if you’re working your upper body that much you’re doing something wrong. On all our scrambling weekends and courses we always take time to show you the appropriate technique. But – you do usually need good hill legs – especially for the Scrambles 2 and 3 weekends.
Do I need any specialist kit for scrambling?
No you don’t – just wear what you would sensibly need for any mountain day.
This Scrambling weekend is a level 1 and we step forth in pursuit of England's third highest peak, Helvellyn at 949m via the airy ridge of Striding Edge.
Once on top, (weather permitting of course), we should be rewarded by tremendous views with the Lakes of Ulswater to the East and Thirlmere to the West before heading back to the warmth and comfort of the pub. Striding Edge can be as pleasant or as scary as you make it - perfect for the novice or the seasoned scrambler. On Sunday we'll be driving north to Blencathra where the infamous Sharp Edge awaits. The book describes this one as “Lakeland’s sharpest ridge and justly popular” – a great route to take us to the top of Blencathra! This is indeed another Lake District classic and one not to miss if you’re new to this game of scrambling. And more than that – this way we can also descend down another great route – Halls Fell Ridge - making this a super day out…!
A Zest member of staff may not necessarily be accompanying you on this holiday but will put you in touch with other members of Zest who are attending. You will be accompanied by a guide who is a qualified walk leader and first aider. The walk leader will ensure you are adequately prepared for the hill before you set off: properly equipped and briefed for the adventure ahead. After all, it's no fun walking with a badly packed bag, or wearing a wet pair of jeans, or badly fitting boots! So your leader will take care to see that, with his expertise and experience, you will be well looked after.
Participation Agreement
Scrambling is exciting, intoxicating and liberating. But it should also be noted that scrambling as with all outdoor pursuits, carries an inherent risk of injury and death, which cannot be eliminated. You must accept that although we do our utmost to reduce any risks to an acceptable level, there are chances of accidents happening and we would suggest you take out personal accident insurance. Furthermore plans may be changed on our weekends and courses to take into account local and environmental conditions such as the weather.
The price of this holiday does not include any meals or accommodation which will be arranged once we have final numbers.
This holiday is not available to book online please email bookings@zestuk.co.uk if you are interested in this holiday.
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