White Ghyll Edge - Scrambling CPD day
We are constantly looking for ways to improve our skill set to ensure our clients experience 1st class days in the mountains. Today we were joined by fellow outdoor instructor Kelly who has similar goals. Our route followed the skyline of the imposing White Ghyll Crag.
White Ghyll Edge is a grade 2 rock scramble. It begins next to Upper Scout crags, a popular area for rock climbers. A gully marks the route, this is loose and care is required not to dislodge rocks. We were keen to enhance the fluidity of our scrambling rope-work so roped up here and discussed various belay options. Sometimes the 'strong-arming' technique is sufficient to protect the scramble, whilst on steeper terrain or continuously rocky sections, belays may be required to keep things safe.
Decisions need to be quick, sound, and constantly monitored so as to best suit the terrain and people. For the first part of the scramble I took the lead and made the decisions, discussing choices with the others at every opportunity. Later on Kelly took the lead and safely navigated us to the top of White Ghyll Edge using a variety of mountaineering skills.
The sky was blue and Langdale looked stunning as it so often does, the wind kept things chilly for us though, with hat, gloves, and coats on throughout!
We de-kitted and enjoyed a leisurely stroll across the open fell to below Tarn crag, then alongside Stickle Ghyll back to the New Dungeon Ghyll. The valley being far warmer.
To finish the afternoon we ramped up the steepness of terrain by visiting Middlefell Buttress. This is low grade rock climbing terrain, so also possible to treat as a scramble, which is what we did. Again it was Kelly who took the lead here, taking us up 3 short, rocky pitches until we could scramble off into the descent gully.
Always good to share knowledge and discuss mountaineering skills and methods. Thanks to Kate & Kelly.
For more information about the activities we offer here in the Lake District please check out our Activities Page Here
Mark
