Winter Lake District 2009 - 07-03-2009
Yes, it's that time of year again and Scouts from Lambarde troop joined Scouts, Explorers and Ranger Guids from across Kent in the annual pilgrimage to Coniston in the Lake District. Joe, Oliver, Billy and Max, awoke to a bright, clear Saturday morning with a few patches of snow still visible on the higher slopes. With this in mind, the weekend was designated as winter conditions. Billy and Oliver joined Scott's group and headed off to tackle Wetherlam, whilst Joe and Max's group scaled The Old Man of Coniston. The guys managed to find a patch of snow deep enough and for Derek, a winter mountain leader, to show them how to kick steps into the snow and walk as a group. They were the shown how to use an ice axe to cut steps into ice and how to use it to maintain balance. However, it was not long before our little patch of snow was to churrned up to be of any use so we carried on with the walk.
However, the weather front changed and low cloud swept in along with stiff winds which tested the groups navigation skills to the limits. After finding a sheltered spot between the rocks at the summit for lunch, we headed back down via Levers Water.
On the way down Scott set up a rope on the crags around the Tarn and the group learnt how to set up a belay rope for scrambling. They then spent an hour climbing up the crags and learning some scrambling skills that were to come in handy the next day.
That evening, after a hearty meal, the guys could relax in the games room at the hostel and get to know the Scouts from the other groups and exchange mountain stories (or was that the leaders in the pub across the road ???)
The next day, most of the group decided to tackle Church Beck, a grade 2/3 river scramble. This involved getting into the river and following it up stream, having to climb the waterfalls as you go. Very wet, but great fun!
After a quick practice on the simple stretch we headed for the tricky part.
Although it may have been wet and cold it was great fun and an experience that will leave lasting memories with all.
The county and the Invicta Mountaineering Club run several trips across the countries mountain ranges and you can get involved with all these fun activities. Check out the Land activities web diary at Kentscouts.org. uk for details or drop me or Kate an email.
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