Overnight snow had somewhat changed the landscape and we were faced with a winter wonderland. Achingly beautiful to look at, but rather more challenging to move through. Despite challenging conditions underfoot, we made very good progress. As we nearer Lingmell Col it was becoming clearer the weather and conditions were conspiring against us and we had to make a quick decision to either carry on, turn back, or visit an alternative summit.
The alternative summit of Lingmell was chosen and our route reset for this shapely peak, just next to Scafell Pike, but at a lower altitude, so slightly friendlier terrain.
This route gave us pretty much everything Scafell Pike would, maybe even better views in fact, and certainly less people. We enjoyed a completely empty summit, and were able to savour the far reaching views in all directions, including Scafell Pike and Scafell. The windchill effect was significant and I was feeling glad we had changed our route to this slightly lower mountain. A very quick bite to eat and we had to set off again to keep warm-ish! Due to the heavy snow cover we were able to take a bee-line route back over to the Corridor route, breaking trail ourselves through the virgin snow.
Thankfully there was a lull in the wind for about an hour, but as we descended further back into the Borrowdale valley the wind whipped up again and tore at our faces, reminding us of its power.
A great day to be out in the mountains. Thanks to Peter & Sam for good company all day 🙂
Mark
