Guided Climbing Lake District
After a period of unsettled weather, a corner was turned today. The sun shone, it dried the crags and warmed the rock, as well as our skin. When the days are like this, climbing on a mountain crag here in the Lakes is absolutely magnificent. There really is no place in the world I'd rather be.
We had a late start and I cycled into Langdale to meet Sam at the Old Dungeon Ghyll around lunchtime. The plan going forward is to cycle instead of drive whenever that's possible.
A short walk led us to the base of a busy Raven crag. We cruised up Evening Wall in a couple of pitches. I noticed a girl on an adjacent route was climbing in short sleeves, it really has been a warm day.
Lots of easy scrambling leads from the top of Raven crag up to the Gimmer path and very soon we were enjoying a break at the base of Gimmer. We noticed a couple of teams were on here too, good to see.
It was decided we'd climb the classic 'Bracket and Slab' route. About 100m in length and given a grade of Severe (under graded in my opinion). Each pitch gives varied and nicely challenging climbing on rough, solid mountain rock. Such a delight to be up here. Sam led the initial pitches, these are almost certainly the most difficult. I had it easy, taking the upper two pitches.
Arriving at the top we changed into our trainers and continued scrambling all the way up to the summit of Loft crag. Here the views over to Pike O'Stickle are quite lovely. I was on a bit of a schedule so I could cycle home before dark, so a quick retreat back into the valley was up next.
A fantastic afternoon incorporating two multi-pitch climbs, lots of scrambling and a mountain summit. Thanks to Sam of Lake District Mountaineering for joining today.
If you're looking to fill your next visit to the Lakes with mountain adventures, please do get in touch. We can plan a bespoke itinerary for you.
Mark
