Blencathra 2002

BLENCATHRA FROM MUNGRISDALE
(No scrambling) 12KM LENGTH StartTime: 11:00 Finish Time 16.30 Author Andrew Nelms Date 10 / 11 / 2002 Location MUNGRISDALE / BLENCATHRA Start/finish GR 365,305

OS MAP THE ENGLISH LAKES NE/NW

Description
Hike started at 365 305 Mungisdale. This was small unsurfaced carpark by the side of a narrow road suitable for about only 15 cars. No facilities or charge.

Everybody on the trip walked together as far as 348 298 where the group split into two groups. Those with the wish to climb Sharp edge were led by Peter Tubby (See report 10-11-02 Blencathra1 by Pete Tubby for more information). The group walked up the reasonably gentle slope to the northern end of Bannerdale Crags. Here a little light luncheon was taken as it was thought that it would be the most sheltered from the brisk easterly breeze. A bearing was then taken for the 1km distance to the saddle point at 328 291. The route up to the summit was taken above Foule crag via Atkinson Pike.

The route off the mountain was taken on the westerly path down Scales fell. At 341 276 the group left the path and headed directly down the very steep slope to the footbridge at 344 279. The path that follows the River Glenderamackin was taken all the way back the minibus / pub in Mungrisdale. The river crossing at 345 289 proved tricky and if there had been more rainfall impassable.

The route was not rushed and time was taken to enable plenty of rest stops and a small amount of map and compass work. Much time was taken at the summit to take in the magnificent views.

Club Members on Walk
Keith Watson Sergey Borovik Emily N Sarah Hignett Graeme Calvert Andrew Nelms Jon Smith Claire W

Lessons learnt / suggestions
Newer club members with little map and compass knowledge should be taught by those more familiar with navigation.

Navigation on the lower slopes should be given as much attention as that up a hill / mountain as silly mistakes can cause frustration and embarrassment.