Alan with Scafell Pike behind - Scafell Pike Adventures
Scafell Pike Adventures
Over the weekend we were out guiding on Scafell Pike. The aim being to help Alan finish the 3 Peaks (thankfully not all at the same time). Whilst the weather forecast showed promise, the reality turned out to be somewhat different.
Alan was staying at The Wasdale Head Inn, so we met there. It is always a pleasure to visit and look at the old photographs that decorate the walls. An absolute gem of a place. We soon set off into a windy and rainy Wasdale. To say it was a bit chilly would be quite the understatement. A strong North-Easterly had us well wrapped up from the off. Still, that forecast was sure to come good right? Hmmmm.
Crossing Lingmell Gill was nice and straightforward and as we ascended Brown Tongue our pace was good, pretty relaxed. Taking in the views which were splendid in all directions. I could sense Alan was at times feeling a little unsteady and this was almost certainly due to the gusting winds and driving rain along with slippery rock underfoot. We discussed route options and concluded that continuing through Hollow Stones was going to be worth the effort and so we did.
As we made progress through the boulder field the weather deteriorated and the wind now making its presence felt almost constantly. The walk was starting to turn into a battle. By now I knew we would very likely need to turn back at Lingmell Col, if not sooner. This is always a tough call as we so want to reach the summit with everyone. Sometimes it just isn't to be though and today was one of those times. Alan started the dialogue regarding us turning around early and after some discussion it was decided that is what we would do.
No problem, no shame, no drama. Simply a good decision made where everyone comes out on top. The instant we began our descent we could feel the temperature plummet, so just in case there had been any doubt in our minds, this eliminated it all. We had made the right call.
What lay ahead was a leisurely walk back to The Wasdale Head Inn, with lots of good chatter and general banter with fellow walkers. Oh and the views over Wastwater and out to the coast were by now, stunning.
When an early turn around happens, for whatever reason, there can be a feeling of defeat. Walkers want to reach the top and will often stop at nothing to do so. Our take on it is different. Our aim is to arrive safely back at base with our clients having had the best possible day. The summit is always optional and always will be. Will will do our level best to get you there. But whatever the outcome, we hope an adventure is enjoyed.
Big thanks to Alan for his good company, resilience and level headedness in adverse conditions. This all makes our job so much easier and more enjoyable too.
Mark
Wastwater - Scafell Pike Adventures
Scafell Pike Adventures - photo courtesy of Andrew Wilkins