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Regions - Trip reports, destination advice, recommended routes, etc. => Lake District => Topic started by: Rob Goes Walking on 19:51:45, 06/10/18

Title: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 19:51:45, 06/10/18
Hello,


So I want to tackle some fells but I'm 21 and a half stone at only 5 foot 8. I did Latrigg from Keswick and found it quite challenging at the start where it was steepest but manageable and I got up the rest of it. It made me huff and puff some of the way but I wasn't tired at the end of it and could have gone further.


Then I tried Loughrigg fell from moss common which was easy until I came to the stone "steps" at NY 342056


(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1976/31266650588_c77f71c03d_z_d.jpg)


and I watched much lighter people than me slip and stumble on the way down which worried me about coming back (it's a lot harder to stop at my size), plus they looked like they went on forever (you can't see how high they go in the photograph but if you know Loughrigg you will know they go on for a lot more than the photographed bit). I think it's a bit much to expect myself to go up those steps and Loughrigg is supposed to be an easy fell.


But I could cope with Latrigg OK so there's probably other fells I could cope with. Can someone who knows the fells well offer any opinions? Thanks!
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: richardh1905 on 20:05:30, 06/10/18

Catbells immediately springs to mind; a delightful little hill with fantastic views across Derwentwater.


Also, be on the lookout for good lakeside and valley walks - a walk around Buttermere, for instance, or use the steamer to do a one way walk from Howtown to Patterdale along Ullswater's wild eastern shore.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 20:46:11, 06/10/18
Thanks Richard, Catbells is on my to-do list but someone said they would go with me so I'm waiting for them to be ready. I'm glad you think it's suitable as I've had mixed opinions on it some people saying it will be too hard but I do intend to try Catbells.

I'll check out your lower walk suggestions too.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: jontea on 21:31:04, 06/10/18
I would say try Orrest Head from Windermere. It’s not too high and has a good path up.


Or Wansfell Pike from Ambleside, again has good paths but a bit steeper and a lot of steps but if you want to push yourself then a very doable fell.


Just a word of caution regarding Cat Bells, although small and relatively easy for most folk, it does have a little scramble near the summit, but good paths up to that point. Good luck  O0




Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Ridge on 21:49:21, 06/10/18
Hallin Fell by Ullswater, climb from the ferry at Howtown.
Walla Crag from Ashness Bridge
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: rural roamer on 22:06:11, 06/10/18
I was also going to suggest Walla Crag, great views all around Derwent Water and over to Catbells.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 22:37:37, 06/10/18

Might I suggest Loadpot Hill or Arthur's Pike. You can let your car do most of the climbing and park at NY 49785 21479.  Head NW to Askham Fell then W via The Cockpit to join High Street. See http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=1654 (obviously not all of this trace) and http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=2642 for my traces.  Good views over Ullswater.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 08:30:59, 07/10/18
Thanks for the suggestions guys. Perhaps I should have added that I'm limited to public transport because I don't own a car but don't let that stop you suggesting routes that need a car as I might save up and buy one in future (I do have a licence) and I can always check if a route is accessible via public transport with google maps so there's no need to check yourselves. If you know a route is accessible by public transport though, that's a bonus.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 11:08:49, 07/10/18
Thanks for the suggestions guys. Perhaps I should have added that I'm limited to public transport because I don't own a car but don't let that stop you suggesting routes that need a car as I might save up and buy one in future (I do have a licence) and I can always check if a route is accessible via public transport with google maps so there's no need to check yourselves. If you know a route is accessible by public transport though, that's a bonus.
Have you costed out car hire versus public transport?  Depending on distances and journeys involved, it can be quite cost effective.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 12:26:08, 07/10/18
Have you costed out car hire versus public transport?


I've moved to Penrith so this is a long term thing me hiking in the Lakes rather than a holiday. I looked at car hire and the cheapest I found up here was £30 for one day and £50 for three consecutive days (just hire, no petrol or car park charges). The bus costs £11.30 for one day or £28.50 for 7 days to use as often as I like in the north west. I usually use it for 3 of those days with a days rest in between. Anyone know of cheaper car hire?
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Hillhiker1 on 17:00:21, 07/10/18
It's been a while since I've done it, but I don't remember Gowbarrow fell being particularly strenuous
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 17:15:29, 07/10/18
It's been a while since I've done it, but I don't remember Gowbarrow fell being particularly strenuous
  I think this is the easiest way up if you use the 508 bus to Park Brow Foot http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/? (http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=2750)
walk=2750 (http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=2750) or https://www.gpsies.com/map.do;jsessionid=278039BA3402D224CB01C4EA29EA202D.fe2?fileId=wqfywgbykabwiwwe (https://www.gpsies.com/map.do;jsessionid=278039BA3402D224CB01C4EA29EA202D.fe2?fileId=wqfywgbykabwiwwe)
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 19:05:56, 07/10/18
Thanks guys appreciate your help.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Hillhiker1 on 20:58:38, 07/10/18
Black Crag from Tarn hows is another straightforward one with splendid all round views. Also, while we're in that area: Holme fell?
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: richardh1905 on 21:04:32, 07/10/18

Something a little different - but maybe a bit difficult of access from Penrith.


Catch a train to Ravenglass; then the Eskdale Railway to Irton Station, and walk over Muncaster Fell back to Ravenglass.


Walked this route in reverse several years ago (but we carried on to camp at Boot; then over to the Newfield Inn in Dunnerdale the next day).


Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 20:38:16, 08/10/18
So I started looking into Walla Crag and found this route


https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/borrowdale-and-derwent-water/trails/walla-crag-to-ashness-bridge-walk (https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/borrowdale-and-derwent-water/trails/walla-crag-to-ashness-bridge-walk)


Which I think is the route you mean except I'll start in a different place? It's better from public transport to start at the car park than Ashness Bridge, saves 1.2 miles road walking.

Little concerned because they describe it as moderate and Loughrigg was supposed to be easy but it's different people doing the describing. If you guys think I can tackle it I'm game to try.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Hillhiker1 on 20:56:03, 08/10/18
I think that's a pretty straightforward route, it's moderately uphill, but nothing excessively steep, I'd say nowhere on that route is it as steep as Loughrigg from the terrace. Take your time you should be fine. From memory, it's still a road walk back from Ashness bridge to the Carpark though.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Mel on 21:26:20, 08/10/18
Or you could walk to Walla Crag from Keswick town centre (http://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0008/171791/kw-nu_walla_crag_walk_4a-2-10.pdf)


Steady gradient.  Easy path up to Walla Crag.


Alternatively, catch the boat launch to Ashness Gate landing stage (great lake level view of Walla Crag above) and walk from Ashness Bridge up and over Walla Crag back into Keswick.


I personally think the ascent from Ashness Bridge is quite steep in comparison to the Keswick side but if you managed Latrigg you'll be fine with it.  Just take your time.  Huffing and puffing is mandatory.  Walking up without stopping is not  O0   Go at your own pace.  Find your own walking rhythm.  Enjoy the views.  Consult your map ..... often (justifiable excuse for a breather  ;)  ).  


Don't discount Loughrigg though.  As you do more walks and your confidence and experience grows, you'll start to wonder who's been along and flattened the fells so earmark it for a second attempt in the springtime when you've got a few more lake district walks under your belt and built your confidence up a bit  :)


Oh, and those slim folks slipping and sliding down those cobble steps?  All that's telling me is that they're going too fast and not taking enough care (maybe wanting to look more experienced and confident than they were?).  I go sideways down steps like that and just take my time. 


Enjoy.  It's a great hobby and the Lakes is a wonderful playground  :)



Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 22:10:37, 08/10/18
Thanks guys. That reads like good advice Mel. I'll revisit Loughrigg after I've got some more walks in the lakes under my belt. My only previous hikes were in the south downs which is a lot less steep, at least it was everywhere I walked.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 12:04:20, 09/10/18
Thanks guys. That reads like good advice Mel. I'll revisit Loughrigg after I've got some more walks in the lakes under my belt. My only previous hikes were in the south downs which is a lot less steep, at least it was everywhere I walked.
There is an easier way up Loughrigg than the steps. Sneak up on it from Ambleside .
https://www.walklakes.co.uk/walk_141.html (https://www.walklakes.co.uk/walk_141.html)
That way you go down the steps. If you do not fancy the steps, you can circle the top plateau clockwise and return whence you came.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 15:51:27, 17/10/18
So finally I'm allowed to go walking again after minor surgery. Walla Crag had some awesome views. It was easy apart from the bit where it opens up into fields and was rather steep but that section was short (I did it from Keswick direction). Took me a while though. Thanks for suggesting this lovely walk. Now to pick my next outing...
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Mel on 18:09:40, 17/10/18
Great stuff!  Walla Crag definitely has good views.  And I'm glad your minor surgery was successful.


Can I suggest you get a copy of Walks Around Keswick by Dalesman (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Walks-Around-Keswick-Dalesman/dp/1855681196).  There are others in the series covering Ambleside, Windermere and Ullwater too.  I got one of mine from one of the shops in Keswick, possibly Booths and the other free with Lakeland Walker magazine.


Great little books (if a little old-fashioned in writing style) and they have easy walks ranging from 2 to 6 miles and not scaling loftier heights than 1,500ft.  Not all walks are "peak bagging" though, but don't forget, the Lake District isn't flat and you don't need to get to the top of something for fabulous views or for training/fitness walks.  I find them really useful for "general walks in the fells".  Quite often you can link a couple of the walks together to make a longer one.


There's no doubt other, more modern/recent books available but I like these for their simplicity.



Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 18:15:13, 17/10/18
OK Mel I ordered the book it's due to arrive Monday, Oct. 22 - Wednesday, Oct. 24. Thanks for your suggestion sounds like a good investment.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Ridge on 19:00:21, 17/10/18
Well done Rob  O0
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Innominate Man on 20:21:12, 17/10/18
Hello,


So I want to tackle some fells but I'm 21 and a half stone at only 5 foot 8......


Shows how my mind works - I originally read this as you were 21 years old and weigh 1/2 stone at 5' 8" ...... Going to say that's not an overweight hiker  :D
Plenty of good suggestions here from all the people of this Parish. I agree with all of these and would also suggest Harter Fell (Dunnerdale/Wrynose Pass).
The reason is, although it is a modest fell it is in a great position and once on the top there is a lot to see and explore but more importantly it offers a grandstand view of most of the Lakeland giants - they are all spread out around you from the Coniston / Dow group all they way anticlockwise back to the Scafell range & beyond.
Plus the bonus of looking down onto a Roman fort.
Better still, it is likely to be quiet when you get up there.
The only problem is ..... getting there (by public transport).
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 20:30:22, 17/10/18

Plenty of good suggestions here from all the people of this Parish. I agree with all of these and would also suggest Harter Fell (Dunnerdale/Wrynose Pass).

Which Harter Fell? I found two:

Harter Fell (Eskdale) (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harter_Fell_(Eskdale)) and Harter Fell (Mardale) (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harter_Fell_(Mardale)). You mention Dunnerdale which is nearer to Harter_Fell_(Eskdale) but I want to make sure.

EDIT: I tried google maps for public transport to a car park near there (Harter_Fell_(Eskdale)) and it didn't even suggest the closest place I could get transport to. Still, I might get a car at some point or even a motorbike (have licence for both) so it's good to know. Unless I'm looking at the wrong Harter Fell of course...
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Innominate Man on 21:33:37, 17/10/18
Which Harter Fell? I found two:

Harter Fell (Eskdale) (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harter_Fell_(Eskdale)) and Harter Fell (Mardale) (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harter_Fell_(Mardale)). You mention Dunnerdale which is nearer to Harter_Fell_(Eskdale) but I want to make sure.

EDIT: I tried google maps for public transport to a car park near there (Harter_Fell_(Eskdale)) and it didn't even suggest the closest place I could get transport to. Still, I might get a car at some point or even a motorbike (have licence for both) so it's good to know. Unless I'm looking at the wrong Harter Fell of course...


Eskdale is the one. I think somebody on here did a TR recently that included a photo from/of the summit.
I'll see if I can find it as it'll show you better than my explanation.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Innominate Man on 23:40:24, 17/10/18

Eskdale is the one. I think somebody on here did a TR recently that included a photo from/of the summit.
I'll see if I can find it as it'll show you better than my explanation.


Not the one I hoped to find but came across this on the internet from Stewart Smith photography;
Eskdale-from-Harter-Fell.jpg (http://www.stewartsmithphotography.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/Eskdale-from-Harter-Fell.jpg)


Gives you an idea of what is in store.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Bigfoot_Mike on 12:22:13, 18/10/18
It has been a long time since I was there, but I think Haystacks at the south of Buttermere might be suitable. It is certainly an interesting walk and was one of Wainwright’s favourites. I believe his ashes were scattered here. One advantage is that, if you find too difficult, you can always have a walk around Buttermere and extend to Crummock Water. This is worth doing in its own right.
I too am heavier than is ideal for hill walking, but don’t let that stop me. The extra weight does make going uphill harder, but we get more exercise than the racing snakes for the same distance travelled.🙂
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: April on 20:23:19, 18/10/18
I tried google maps for public transport to a car park near there (Harter_Fell_(Eskdale)) and it didn't even suggest the closest place I could get transport to.

You are right there is no public transport there. We have done Harter Fell from Great Langdale using the buses and another time by train, to Ravenglass and La'al Ratty to Dalegarth. It might be a longer walk than you would want to do at the moment. We wild camped when we did it.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 06:38:37, 19/10/18
You're probably right about the walk length as I don't currently have camping equipment. I'm not actually sure how far I could walk now, 6 years ago I walked all day and most of the night for weeks with short rest stops where I sat down for a couple of minutes and I suspect I still could albeit at a slower pace now I'm 6 stone heavier. That was on fairly level ground though, hills might alter things. The main problem with walk length I think is catching the last public transport at the end of the day, I've slept outside without camping equipment before and don't recommend it.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 16:33:23, 20/10/18

After the success of Ridge's first suggestion I decided to tackle his second suggestion, Hallin Fell. I found this tougher than Latrigg (Latrigg was tougher than Walla Crag) although not by leaps and bounds. I tried to follow the route from here (https://where2walk.co.uk/walks/lake_district/hallin-fell-from-howtown/) but on the decent the paths on the ground deviated from the route a bit and I found myself walking along a path nobody else was using. I got to here:

(http://i67.tinypic.com/2wfo2mh.png)

and slipped and fell down the hill a bit as the grassy path was steep, wet and slippery. Not knowing if I was in the right place or not and not wanting to venture further in case the path got steeper I turned around, climbed back to the summit and returned the way I'd come. So not quite the walk I wanted but enjoyable (less so the descent as I had to go so slow) and great views so thanks Ridge and on to my next adventure.

If anyone wants to see the photos they're on my Flickr.

EDIT: Shrunk the massive ViewRanger screenshot.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Ridge on 18:58:30, 20/10/18
I'm pleased you had a good walk again.
You did what we all should always do when out on the hills. You assessed your position, route, fitness and the conditions and adjusted your plans accordingly
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 18:23:17, 23/10/18
Are those stone steps from Loughrigg Terrace called "stone pitching"? I'm investingating Gowbarrow Fell for tomorrow but it says it has stone pitching and I don't know if I want to tackle that yet. They look so damn easy to slip on but it's probably not as slippery as the wet grass was and I'm worrying about nothing...

EDIT: I googled some images of stone pitching and it seems it varies quite a lot. How does the stone pitching on Gowbarrow Fell compare to the steep steps up from Loughrigg Terrace?
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: April on 18:43:17, 23/10/18
There isn't very much pitching on the fell itself that I can remember. There is a very small section if you are going up from Dockray. Unless there has been some pitching done since my last visit there? Do you mean the pitching near Aira Force? If you mean this bit, I don't think it is as steep as Loughrigg.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Mel on 18:46:47, 23/10/18
Yes. It's basically a term to indicate that the path is man-made using large stones (usually to reduce erosion).  It's the gradient they're on that makes them okay or scary.  Once you get used to them, they're actually alright... even though each stone never seem to be the length of a foot (hence why I wrote earlier that I go down them sideways).


If you look carefully near any stone pitched steps or paths, you'll see a worn "trod" just off to a side where other people have avoided walking on them too.  Shame really as they're a good idea but they need to be a little more foot-friendly.  Smaller loose stones are actually worse because they can act like marbles under your feet if the gradient is steep.


'Fraid the Lake District is full of paths like these so if you can find a way to feel safe ascending/descending (the walking poles suggested in your other topic are a good idea) then you'll feel like you've been given a freedom pass to the fells  O0


I've not done Gowbarrow so can't help on what that path is like (if the gradient is gentle then the stone pitching might be no problem).


Get some poles  :)
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 19:11:17, 23/10/18
There isn't very much pitching on the fell itself that I can remember. There is a very small section if you are going up from Dockray. Unless there has been some pitching done since my last visit there? Do you mean the pitching near Aira Force? If you mean this bit, I don't think it is as steep as Loughrigg.

Yes I think I do mean the bit near Aria Force. Thanks April.


'Fraid the Lake District is full of paths like these so if you can find a way to feel safe ascending/descending (the walking poles suggested in your other topic are a good idea) then you'll feel like you've been given a freedom pass to the fells  O0

Perhaps I should see what I make of the ones at Gowbarrow then.

Get some poles  :)

I got some today, cheap ones from Go Outdoors with a max load of 67 kg. Given I'm 140 kg I hope this is OK, I don't plan on swinging on them so I guessed it would be. I'm hoping it's easier on my knees descending too.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 19:12:21, 23/10/18
I can offer this route up Gowbarrow, I recall it was fairly gentle up as it spirals round the fell but is steeper down as it follows a more direct route.  Follow it anticlockwise  http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=2750 (http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=2750)  The loop at the top was sight seeing.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 19:16:01, 23/10/18
I can offer this route up Gowbarrow, I recall it was fairly gentle up as it spirals round the fell but is steeper down as it follows a more direct route.  Follow it anticlockwise  http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=2750 (http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=2750)


Hmm, I was going to follow this (https://www.walklakes.co.uk/walk_39.html) route from WalkLakes. Now I don't know which route to follow!
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 19:33:36, 23/10/18

Hmm, I was going to follow this (https://www.walklakes.co.uk/walk_39.html) route from WalkLakes. Now I don't know which route to follow!
If you don't like steeps I think you will find mine easier and you can summit bag once you are up there but of course it is your call.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Mel on 19:38:07, 23/10/18
Looking at them both, ninthace's route looks the more gentle in terms of gradient. 


(Cheers ninthace, I've not done Gowbarrow yet so your route is earmarked - though I'll probably do it clockwise as that looks like it would put the steepest gradient on the way up?)
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 19:41:40, 23/10/18
Looking at them both, ninthace's route looks the more gentle in terms of gradient. 


(Cheers ninthace, I've not done Gowbarrow yet so your route is earmarked - though I'll probably do it clockwise as that looks like it would put the steepest gradient on the way up?)
  You are right there - it is a straight pull all the way but it is the shortest way.  I like the other way as it is a bit of a balcony walk with good views over Ullswater on the way up.  The other thing is this route does all the fell rather than half of it.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: April on 19:52:03, 23/10/18
Hmm, I was going to follow this (https://www.walklakes.co.uk/walk_39.html) route from WalkLakes. Now I don't know which route to follow!

 :) The walk on the Walk Lakes website that you have posted a link to is a great walk too. It is nice to have choices  :)
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 19:57:19, 23/10/18
Looking at them both, ninthace's route looks the more gentle in terms of gradient.
How do you tell that? Is it because it crosses less contour lines pretty much following one on the eastern side of the walk?
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 20:08:38, 23/10/18
Thanks again for all the help guys.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 20:10:02, 23/10/18
For comparison and very much a back of a fag packet calculation; the Loughrigg Steps are a height gain of 185m in 770m.  The steep way up Gowbarrow from Dockray side is around 190m in 820m. The route I suggest is 278m in around 3.5km.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Mel on 20:25:04, 23/10/18

How do you tell that? Is it because it crosses less contour lines pretty much following one on the eastern side of the walk?

Sort of, yes.  When a route is following parallel along a contour line it will be (fairly) level - a few gentle undulations perhaps but nowt to write home about.  The route on the west of the hill crosses the contour lines at pretty much right-angles (90 degrees) which tells me that's straight up hill (or downhill, depending on direction of travel).  The closer the contour lines - the steeper the gradient.  The route on the SE side of the hill takes you diagonally down (or up) the contour lines meaning the gradient will be more gentle as it's crossing the contour lines at a 45 degree angle.  (Not sure how your map reading skills are so sorry if that's teaching you to suck eggs!) 





Personally I prefer to do any steep bits in an uphill direction rather than face the yawning abyss of nothingness going steeply downhill  ;D

Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 20:57:10, 23/10/18
The steep way up Gowbarrow from Dockray side is around 190m in 820m. The route I suggest is 278m in around 3.5km.
I'd love to be able to calculate that, how did you do it (or is that too much to explain)? Did you measure across the map and look at the contour lines or is there a better way of doing it?

Let me get this right, you're saying the way down if I follow it anti-clockwise I have to go down a bit almost as steep as the steps from Loughrigg Terrace? But if I don't I have to go up a bit almost as steep? That's a tough choice!

(Not sure how your map reading skills are so sorry if that's teaching you to suck eggs!)
It's what I thought but it's nice to have it confirmed. My map reading skills aren't great regarding working out how steep the hill is from the contour lines.

Personally I prefer to do any steep bits in an uphill direction rather than face the yawning abyss of nothingness going steeply downhill  ;D
Me too! Do you think it will be steeper going down than Hallin Fell? I saw some people run down the hill but I felt like I was going to fall and slide unless I inched by way down it!
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 21:25:40, 23/10/18
In no particular order.
The route down is nowhere near as bad as the Loughrigg descent.  You have more choice of line for a start and it is wider. I don't like descents either but this one does not stick in the memory so it must be ok.  :)


There are ways of calculating ascent.  Knowing the scale of the map you could calculate the distance.  Alternatively you can do what I did and user the ruler tool in GoogleEarth to measure the distance. The height gain is just mental arithmetic; the height of the summit is on the map, the contour lines on the 1:25000 maps of the Lake District are one every 10m so you can just count them.  The thicker lines are every 50m to save time.  (Check the map though, sometimes the contour lines are every 5m and it can change on the map).  Start at the top, find the first contour and count down to the bottom in 10s.  For the route, I walked I called up the gps trace in GoogleEarth and looked at the elevation profile.


I would not say it is anywhere as steep as than Hallin Fell - look at the contour spacing.  I was surprised by your choice of line from the trace you posted.  Next time have a look at the route on Google Earth.  If you look at Hallin Fell there are well walked routes on and off the top visible on the imagery - these are probably the easiest to negotiate.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 21:47:09, 23/10/18
Thanks ninthace.

I would not say it is anywhere as steep as than Hallin Fell - look at the contour spacing.  I was surprised by your choice of line from the trace you posted.  Next time have a look at the route on Google Earth.  If you look at Hallin Fell there are well walked routes on and off the top visible on the imagery - these are probably the easiest to negotiate.

I had Google Earth Pro installed but didn't know what it could do. What a useful program! I just looked at my Hallin Fell route on Google Earth and can see that it's been mapped out on something rather than via a GPS trace. I got the route from Where2Walk (https://where2walk.co.uk/walks/lake_district/hallin-fell-from-howtown/). Next time I will definitely check my route on Google Earth, in fact I'm off to load in your route to see what to expect!
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 22:00:44, 23/10/18
Thanks ninthace.

I had Google Earth Pro installed but didn't know what it could do. What a useful program! I just looked at my Hallin Fell route on Google Earth and can see that it's been mapped out on something rather than via a GPS trace. I got the route from Where2Walk (https://where2walk.co.uk/walks/lake_district/hallin-fell-from-howtown/). Next time I will definitely check my route on Google Earth, in fact I'm off to load in your route to see what to expect!
If you have your route as a gpx file you can use the file menu to open the gps file in GE. GE will look for kml files when you select file/open but you can tell it to open a gpx file. Select the kml string option and it will lay the trace on the imagery. When you do you can see the descent towards Dockray jiggles about indicating it is flatter than is seems on paper. Also going down gives you a good view of the lne ahead so you can select the best one for you.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 16:04:46, 24/10/18
Gowbarrow fell. It was less strenuous than Latrigg (from Keswick) and Hallin Fell probably a bit more strenuous than Walla Crag (although only on the final approach to Airy Crag). I don't use the term easier though as the path was close to the edge of a very steep slope on the ascent which made me a little nervous and this bit:


(http://i63.tinypic.com/20pok6b.jpg)


gave me some pause on how to get down, although once I started it actually wasn't that hard. I did ninthace's route anti-clockwise like ninthace himself did it. Mel I recommend doing it anti-clockwise too now I've done it, the descent is actually not bad, the hardest and steepest bit is the bit I pictured. Most of the descent is easy. Thanks guys another winning walk.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 17:32:45, 24/10/18
Glad you enjoyed it.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Slowcoach on 19:03:09, 24/10/18
Castle Crag from Rosthwaite...on a bus route. Rosthwaite to Grange and then onto Seatoller and back to Rosthwaite. Great walk.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Mel on 09:56:12, 26/10/18
Glad you had a good walk Rob.  Is that bit in your picture taken from the top/near the trig point?



Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 10:47:46, 26/10/18
Glad you had a good walk Rob.  Is that bit in your picture taken from the top/near the trig point?
Nope, it's some way down. According to the EXIF data in the photograph (the one on my Flickr, there isn't any in the photo above) it's taken from 54.58699,-2.927319 or NY 4017021706 or here (http://bing.com/maps/default.aspx?cp=54.58699~-2.927319&style=s&lvl=15&sp=point.54.58699_-2.927319_Here) to view on Bing's OS map.

EDIT: Fixed bing maps link. The forum URL thing broke it :(.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Mel on 18:39:57, 26/10/18
Ahh, right.  Cheers for that.  Goes to show though that something unassuming looking on a map can have a sting in it's tail!
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 19:01:58, 26/10/18
Ahh, right.  Cheers for that.  Goes to show though that something unassuming looking on a map can have a sting in it's tail!
  According to my trace the gradient on that section is around 25- 27%.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 21:40:34, 26/10/18
According to my trace the gradient on that section is around 25- 27%.


How did you work that out? I looked up what a percentage gradient is and discovered it's 100(rise/run) and looked up how to calculate it from a map (https://www.esri.com/arcgis-blog/products/product/mapping/expressing-slope/) but I'm guessing you did something clever with Google Earth or something else rather than that?
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 22:01:47, 26/10/18

How did you work that out? I looked up what a percentage gradient is and discovered it's 100(rise/run) and looked up how to calculate it from a map (https://www.esri.com/arcgis-blog/products/product/mapping/expressing-slope/) but I'm guessing you did something clever with Google Earth or something else rather than that?
You can do it from the map but if you have a trace in Places in GE you can right click on the trace name and it opens a window which includes Show Elevation Profile as an option.  Left click on Show Elevation Profile and a speed/elevation graph opens across the bottom of the screen.  If you run your cursor along the graph a red arrow runs along the trace showing where you are and the elevation profile shows you height and gradient for that point.  If you want to know the gradient for a section, click on the start and drag the cursor to the end of the section.  GE will tell you the maximum and average gradient for the section.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 19:16:49, 30/10/18
Having put Arthur's Pike from Pooley Bridge on the back burner for this week (not getting up early enough at my speed, it's about 8 miles) so I'm planning to tackle Orrest Head but this is a very short walk, can anyone recommend any short walks in the Windermere station area to fill out the day? It seems a shame to go all the way to Windermere for such a short walk but I'm running out of time to plan this walk for tomorrow so Orrest Head is almost certainly where I'm going.

Also, do you think Arthur's Pike from Pooley Bridge is suitable? Ninthace recommended doing it from closer but I think it looks OK to do it from Pooley Bridge? Is there anything I don't know that would make it unsuitable? I was planning on doing this (https://my.viewranger.com/route/details/MTQyNjI5Nw==) route with another 1.75 or so miles added on to walk to and from public transport in Pooley Bridge.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 19:20:41, 30/10/18
I’ve only got stuff on the other side from the ferry that I used to use to kill time while my car was being serviced in Bowness. Let me know if you are interested and I send you a link.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 19:34:32, 30/10/18
I’ve only got stuff on the other side from the ferry that I used to use to kill time while my car was being serviced in Bowness. Let me know if you are interested and I send you a link.


Yeah I'm interested, I don't know if I'll have enough time to do it now the clocks have gone back but I can always decide that after seeing how much time I've got left after Orrest Head tomorrow.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: April on 19:45:49, 30/10/18
Pooley Bridge to Arthurs Pike is perfectly suitable  :)

Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 19:51:35, 30/10/18

Yeah I'm interested, I don't know if I'll have enough time to do it now the clocks have gone back but I can always decide that after seeing how much time I've got left after Orrest Head tomorrow.


Here you go.

http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=2697 (http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=2697)
http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=2192 (http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=2192)
https://www.gpsies.com/map.do?fileId=nixrnwwggqldzcak (https://www.gpsies.com/map.do?fileId=nixrnwwggqldzcak)
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 19:58:31, 30/10/18
Thanks April and ninthace.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Strider on 21:02:06, 30/10/18
can anyone recommend any short walks in the Windermere station area to fill out the day?

When you get back to the hotel from Orrest Head, continue west along the road then take the path over Adelaide Hill to Millerground then south along the shore to the museum. 

There's a small hill, Brant Fell, just outside Bowness, you could give that a look.  https://www.theaa.com/walks/brant-fell-above-the-bustle-of-bowness-on-windermere-420664
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 21:38:53, 30/10/18
When you get back to the hotel from Orrest Head, continue west along the road then take the path over Adelaide Hill to Millerground then south along the shore to the museum. 

There's a small hill, Brant Fell, just outside Bowness, you could give that a look.  https://www.theaa.com/walks/brant-fell-above-the-bustle-of-bowness-on-windermere-420664 (https://www.theaa.com/walks/brant-fell-above-the-bustle-of-bowness-on-windermere-420664)

Thanks Strider (Windermere Jetty Museum of Boats, Steam and Stories right?) I can't see a path on any of the maps along the shore (why isn't it on any maps?) but I can see one on Google maps satellites. I'll see if I get enough time to fit in Brant Fell too!
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: chriscab on 21:46:23, 30/10/18
There are some good routes in the Lakes that are not hilly - old keswick railway line, forest tracks etc.

In order to make walking a habit, it is sometimes best to make things ultra easy to begin with. Even small hills can be challenging depending on how you are feeling on the day.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 22:12:48, 30/10/18
There are some good routes in the Lakes that are not hilly - old keswick railway line, forest tracks etc.

But I am looking for hills :) That's what the thread is about.

In order to make walking a habit, it is sometimes best to make things ultra easy to begin with. Even small hills can be challenging depending on how you are feeling on the day.

I don't want walking to be a habit, it's a pleasure for me. I also don't mind challenging myself, when I said easy fells I meant easy to most hill walkers, not easy to me, because lugging up the many extra stones I carry means that what is easy for them may be somewhat challenging to me. The thread started from Loughrigg from the Terrace, it was described as an "easy" fell but the steps didn't look easy to me at all, they actually looked quite dangerous and I wasn't sure it was within my fitness levels at this weight either (they looked like they went on for a long time and there was nowhere on the way up to take a rest).

I also hope other overweight people who want to go fell walking will perhaps come and look at this thread and find fells they can tackle, it's why I post the results of my walks with bits other novice fell walkers might find problematic (if any).
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Bigfoot_Mike on 05:57:07, 31/10/18
Rob, I am very similar to you. I am overweight and it takes a lot more effort to drag myself uphill. However, there is something about being in the hills that lowland walks just can’t seem to deliver. In my opinion the extra effort is worthwhile, as long as we don’t overdo it and cause injuries. Downhill can be worse due to the extra strain on our joints, but I have found that walking poles definitely help. I also find that it does get easier and my fitness levels improve, even if my weight doesn’t significantly reduce.


One benefit of going for the slightly lower, easier hills is that there will be less people completing tick lists and more room for us.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: photonut on 08:31:11, 31/10/18
Hello Rob,

Have you thought about walking to Troutbeck Tongue?  You can park on the A592 (lots of roadside parking) near Limefitt Holiday Park. There are several ways to meander your way to the northern end of Troutbeck Tongue and an easy ascent is to be had with a very rewarding view once on the summit.  The descent (if you choose it) can be steep or you can retrace your steps to the main path.

Going clockwise - Heading from the A592 head up to towards Town Head, Ing Lane, Ing Bridge, Hagg Bridge, turn right at Hall Hill then continue on the path to the northern end of Troutbeck Tounge.  The OS map does not show a path along the spine of the fell but there is most definitely one.  On your descent, whichever way you elect, cross Hagg Gill by the footbridge and follow the path to Limefitt Holiday park.  There is a path (public right of way) through the park which will get you back to the A592.

Cheers
Lee
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Mel on 20:21:35, 31/10/18
There's a small hill, Brant Fell, just outside Bowness, you could give that a look.  https://www.theaa.com/walks/brant-fell-above-the-bustle-of-bowness-on-windermere-420664 (https://www.theaa.com/walks/brant-fell-above-the-bustle-of-bowness-on-windermere-420664)


Cheers for that  O0   It's perfect for my "leg stretch walk on the way" to my January Ambleside Adventure  :)



Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 22:56:14, 31/10/18
Rob, I am very similar to you. I am overweight and it takes a lot more effort to drag myself uphill. However, there is something about being in the hills that lowland walks just can’t seem to deliver. In my opinion the extra effort is worthwhile, as long as we don’t overdo it and cause injuries. Downhill can be worse due to the extra strain on our joints, but I have found that walking poles definitely help. I also find that it does get easier and my fitness levels improve, even if my weight doesn’t significantly reduce.


One benefit of going for the slightly lower, easier hills is that there will be less people completing tick lists and more room for us.

Don't get me wrong, I like low level walks too but you're right, there's something about the hills. My knees have already suffered, I've got some walking poles now but still haven't used them yet.

Have you thought about walking to Troutbeck Tongue?

Thanks Lee, I have put this on the someday list as I am currently limited to public transport and I couldn't find any public transport near to there.


Well, I visited Orrest Head. This was easy although the very last stony bit was a bit slippery in the rain and I had to look for another way back down as going back down it seemed a bit dangerous if it could be avoided (I wasn't the only one, there were other people I followed back down who said they felt the same). The rain ruined the views and the path I chose wasn't really what I look for on a walk, there was a woodland path I had intended to take on the way back down but I got confused and thought that I'd missed it with my detour from the top (should have looked at ViewRanger) so I didn't explore the woodland walk which I think would have been better.

Didn't go on to do the other short walks as I had the hump the rain had ruined the views and my so-called waterproof jacket had allowed water into the pockets (and the arms, although I think a fair bit of the arms was sweat) so I went to a pub in Windermere (The Crafty Baa, do recommend checking this pub out as it served about 100 different beers, literally, and in frozen glasses at that) and then later got off the train and explored Kendal on my way home.

Thanks for suggesting it John I will go back when it isn't raining to experience the views and check out the woodland walk.

This was by far the easiest hill I've done yet if anyone reading this wonders.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: April on 23:25:56, 31/10/18
Have you thought about walking to Troutbeck Tongue?

I have put this on the someday list as I am currently limited to public transport and I couldn't find any public transport near to there.

The 508 stops at Limefitt Park, Troutbeck when the buses are on the summer timetable so it can be done using the bus. It's a good suggestion from photonut, a nice walk up the valley and the fell is an interesting one to climb. The summer timetable starts on 6 Apr 19 so you have a bit of a wait.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 23:41:50, 31/10/18
The 508 stops at Limefitt Park, Troutbeck when the buses are on the summer timetable so it can be done using the bus. It's a good suggestion from photonut, a nice walk up the valley and the fell is an interesting one to climb. The summer timetable starts on 6 Apr 19 so you have a bit of a wait.


Oh right, thanks for that. I wouldn't have known it was reachable in summer otherwise.

I'll probably have to stop climbing fells in winter anyway due to the snow, I'm not at all confident about going out in the snow on the fells but there's another thread about that.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: April on 08:38:06, 01/11/18
I'll probably have to stop climbing fells in winter anyway due to the snow, I'm not at all confident about going out in the snow on the fells but there's another thread about that.

If you get some microspikes this will give you confidence in snowy/icy conditions to do the sort of fell walks you are doing at the moment. I use microspikes going to work in snow and ice so mine get well used.

Oh right, thanks for that. I wouldn't have known it was reachable in summer otherwise.

We use the bus service to do the fells, we aren't keen on the winter service, not as many buses  :(
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 09:23:06, 01/11/18
If you get some microspikes this will give you confidence in snowy/icy conditions to do the sort of fell walks you are doing at the moment. I use microspikes going to work in snow and ice so mine get well used.


Is there a link about using microspikes? For example, would you take them off when going up or down the stone steps of Loughrigg from the terrace or when descending the stony bit I photographed on Gowbarrow? I'd be most worried about descending something like that in the snow/ice as if I slip it's going to hurt and I could potentially break something but don't see how microspikes would help as the surface is probably too hard to dig into. But I don't know if this is true or not, maybe they do help?
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 10:30:49, 01/11/18
My opinion for what it’s worth.
That’s another “it depends” question. So much depends on the surface, how rugged it is, are there footholds or are the rocks smooth, are the rocks set into the slope or sloping down the slope and so on, are they dry, icy or greasy?
In theory spikes might give extra grip on certain types of rock but they would damage the rock and wear out fast. They also risk coming off suddenly if too much force is applied. That is why you do not see people wearing them all the year round, they are for winter use to cope with ice glaze. As has been said, they are the modern version of the hob nail boot with sharper points.
I carry them in winter but to be honest rarely use them.  On rough paths,  poles and careful foot placement will get you a long way. On smoother surfaces such as frozen pavements where your foot could slip a long way, that is where they come into their own. The short answer is get out there, suck it and see.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 10:48:01, 01/11/18
That’s another “it depends” question. So much depends on the surface, how rugged it is, are there footholds or are the rocks smooth, are the rocks set into the slope or sloping down the slope and so on, are they dry, icy or greasy?

That's why I hoped there was a link to read as I don't know what to do when faced with those different surfaces and don't know how you learned. Seems a dangerous thing to learn by experience.

They also risk coming off suddenly if too much force is applied.

Surely this is going to be a big issue for me due to my weight? There's going to be far more force on them than normal with every step.

On smoother surfaces such as frozen pavements where your foot could slip a long way, that is where they come into their own.

So they're good for pavements? I'd have figured they'd be less useful for pavements as the spikes are such a small contact area but they dig in to pavements? I'm sure that they'd wear down fast used on pavements?

The short answer is get out there, suck it and see.

Yeah, maybe. We'll see what happens when it snows!
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 11:02:24, 01/11/18
To be honest I learned by doing. There are too many different circumstances to provide a “staff” answer. The risk of them coming off depends on how they are used.  On a flat surface the risk is far less than a steeply sloped surface, so steps better than steeps, they are a walking aid, not a climbing aid.  If you are unsure of the surface, put your foot down, weight it to be sure it won’t slide; then move the other foot in the same way; unweight the first foot, then move it rather than pushing off hard; repeat. By pavements, I meant flat icy surfaces.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: April on 13:46:05, 01/11/18
When there is snow and ice about I use my microspikes a lot. I've also used them on iced up or snowy steps like the steps on Loughrigg or Gowbarrow Fell, the spikes dig into the ice or snow mostly and not the stone.

How do you manage at the moment when the ground is snow covered and icy, say when you go to the shops or work? Where I live the pavement leading to the bus stop is sometimes like a continuous ice rink, the microspikes are on before I leave the house! Where I work, the same problem with a lot of ice from the bus stop to the car park, I use them here too.

As ninthace says everyone is different, he hardly uses his, some people don't feel as insecure. I am unsteady on my pins and need to feel secure, when there is slippy stuff about I don't want to slide or slip so it will be spikes on as soon as I feel slippery terrain, others aren't as perturbed by this.

I think you are overthinking this, microspikes are just an addition to your boots to give you more grip if you are walking on flat or stepped, or slightly sloping terrain.

Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 14:50:05, 01/11/18
How do you manage at the moment when the ground is snow covered and icy, say when you go to the shops or work?
Carefully, occasionally I slip and fall!

I think you are overthinking this, microspikes are just an addition to your boots to give you more grip if you are walking on flat or stepped, or slightly sloping terrain.

OK thanks.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: photonut on 15:11:00, 01/11/18

Oh right, thanks for that. I wouldn't have known it was reachable in summer otherwise.

I'll probably have to stop climbing fells in winter anyway due to the snow, I'm not at all confident about going out in the snow on the fells but there's another thread about that.

I'm glad April managed to set you straight on the bus times as I wasn't sure when the 508 stopped running for the winter.

I wouldn't stop walking just because of the wintry conditions.  Like you I thought the same  (almost a year ago) but having done a bit of plodding about the LD for nearly a year I realised that there are places you can go... even when there is snow about.

Silver How, Lingmoor Fell, Loughrigg Fell, Black Crag, Helm crag, Gibson Knott, Calf Crag and Steel Fell are all do-able in winter and I believe have easy access in terms of public transport.  Bonscale Pike, Arthurs Pike, Loadpot Hill, Wether Hill and Steel Knots were good fun too in the snow.


Just be sensible, pick your days accordingly and you will have some fantastic walks in the snow - I didn't have spikes, crampons or ice axe when I walked all of the above in snow during Jan/ Feb this year.

HTH

Cheers
Lee
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 15:21:55, 01/11/18
Thanks Lee I appreciate your wisdom.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: photonut on 15:32:36, 01/11/18
Thanks Lee I appreciate your wisdom.

Ha, I wouldn't call it wisdom... more like... it is what I have done myself.  There are a lot of very experienced walkers on here that will be able to give you advice on winter walking I'm sure.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: April on 19:23:47, 01/11/18
Carefully, occasionally I slip and fall!

If you want to avoid this then get some microspikes. These can be worn on any boots or shoes and they don't cost that much. Personally I wouldn't bother with the really cheap ones, I'd go for maybe the Grivel ran microspikes £27 or the Pogus or Kahtoolahs but they cost a bit more. I have Pogus, Beefy has the Kahtoolahs. When I get my next pair, it will be the Grivel ran ones I will be trying. Snow and ice is the same on the fells as it is in urban areas, you can slip and fall in both places. On the fells it can be a bit more serious an outcome depending on where you are. Choose the easier fells in the snow until you gain confidence. And you will. Look at what you have been doing all these last weeks and all the fells you have done. You've had all these adventures and it has been a pleasure to read about them and your "victories". You will have more when it snows I am sure  O0
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Mel on 19:35:46, 01/11/18
Rob, one of the things I do in winter is have a couple of low level routes starting from the same place as my intended route.  That way, if the conditions turn kak or turn scary and I don't feel confident and have to turn back, I can go and do one of the lower level routes and still achieve a nice day out walking.  Especially if I've travelled a fair distance to get there in the first place.


Might be worth considering doing something like that given that you rely on public transport.  I know I'd feel disappointed/frustrated if I'd driven for, say, 3 hours only to find my "choice number 1" route wasn't doable due to the conditions..... A contingency plan is needed because I'm sure as hell not going to turn round and drive back home.


My Ambleside Adventure in January has been planned in that way.... main walk for if the conditions are right but if they change or I feel unsafe and I have to retrace my steps then I can just do my lower level general fell walk (after a restorative cuppa and bun in a cafe).


Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 19:52:54, 01/11/18
Thanks April!

Mel I'll bear that in mind.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 21:04:23, 04/11/18
Castle Crag from Rosthwaite...on a bus route. Rosthwaite to Grange and then onto Seatoller and back to Rosthwaite. Great walk.

I'm thinking of doing Castle Crag tomorrow (with some trepidation, various sites say it has some challenges, it's described as steep and it looks quite steep on the map, albeit short). I'm not sure about the rest of your suggested walk because I can't see the route on the map except via road. I'm wondering if ninthace is around (or anyone else who knows Google Earth); I'm trying to measure the maximum gradient using Google Earth ruler tool but I'm a bit lost. Is it Max Slope and Avg Slope I'm interested in? On the small section I'm looking at right now Average Slope is 7.7% but Max Slope is 46%. I'd be surprised if there was a 46% gradient on the little bit I looked at. What is Max Slope all about?
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 21:26:16, 04/11/18
I'm thinking of doing Castle Crag tomorrow (with some trepidation, various sites say it has some challenges, it's described as steep and it looks quite steep on the map, albeit short). I'm not sure about the rest of your suggested walk because I can't see the route on the map except via road. I'm wondering if ninthace is around (or anyone else who knows Google Earth); I'm trying to measure the maximum gradient using Google Earth ruler tool but I'm a bit lost. Is it Max Slope and Avg Slope I'm interested in? On the small section I'm looking at right now Average Slope is 7.7% but Max Slope is 46%. I'd be surprised if there was a 46% gradient on the little bit I looked at. What is Max Slope all about?


Ask and ye shall receive
https://www.gpsies.com/map.do?fileId=bfxcojhlngxekqlw (https://www.gpsies.com/map.do?fileId=bfxcojhlngxekqlw)


There is an elevation profile attached. This goes up Castle Crag from the back which is the hard way! It is no where near so bad from the front but short and steep sums it up.


The trouble with doing this route in GE is it zig zags and there is too much noise from the data to do a meaningful measurement unless you have an accurate track to measure.

Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 21:31:39, 04/11/18

Ask and ye shall receive
https://www.gpsies.com/map.do?fileId=bfxcojhlngxekqlw (https://www.gpsies.com/map.do?fileId=bfxcojhlngxekqlw)


Thanks ninthace!
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 21:46:54, 04/11/18
You've changed your post so I made a new post.

There is an elevation profile attached. This goes up Castle Crag from the back which is the hard way! It is no where near so bad from the front but short and steep sums it up.

I'm not sure where the elevation profile is or how to use one. I googled what it meant and am still mostly confused. I'll google some more unless you care to enlighten me? Is it just plotting the distance against the height on a graph? Why is it hard? Just strenuous or does it have difficult terrain?
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 22:09:16, 04/11/18
I'm thinking of doing Castle Crag tomorrow (with some trepidation, various sites say it has some challenges, it's described as steep and it looks quite steep on the map, albeit short). I'm not sure about the rest of your suggested walk because I can't see the route on the map except via road. I'm wondering if ninthace is around (or anyone else who knows Google Earth); I'm trying to measure the maximum gradient using Google Earth ruler tool but I'm a bit lost. Is it Max Slope and Avg Slope I'm interested in? On the small section I'm looking at right now Average Slope is 7.7% but Max Slope is 46%. I'd be surprised if there was a 46% gradient on the little bit I looked at. What is Max Slope all about?


I've had a look at your maths for a frontal approach, looks about right - from the start of the climb to the top I got an average slope of 10% with a max gradient of 47% or in round terms 1 in 10 with a peak of around 1 in 2.  The whole climb is around 188m.
If you do it from the back the climb is 108m but near as i can make out it is an average gradient of 16% and a max of 48%
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 22:12:35, 04/11/18
You've changed your post so I made a new post.

I'm not sure where the elevation profile is or how to use one. I googled what it meant and am still mostly confused. I'll google some more unless you care to enlighten me? Is it just plotting the distance against the height on a graph? Why is it hard? Just strenuous or does it have difficult terrain?


Open the gpsies link, the elevation profile is below the map,  yes it is a distance v height graph.  Slide your cursor along it and it will show you where it is on the map.  Hard is a subjective judgement for a route.  Forgot to add the back slope is on scree in places with some exposure.  If you did not like Gowbarrow of Loughrigg, it is not for you.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 23:04:17, 04/11/18
Forgot to add the back slope is on scree in places with some exposure.  If you did not like Gowbarrow of Loughrigg, it is not for you.

Damnit. It's too late to plan another route now. I did like Gowbarrow the exposure (I think I'm using the term right, I mean by exposure that the path was right on the edge of a steep fall) just made me a bit nervous. Loughrigg I didn't like the steps, after descending the stony bit on Gowbarrow I photographed I think I might have a bit more confidence with the Loughrigg steps. Maybe.

I've no experience with scree I don't think so I've no idea how I'd be with it. Now I'm not so sure I should attempt this. What's the front slope like? Maybe I'll have to walk a different day.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 23:11:19, 04/11/18
Damnit. It's too late to plan another route now. I did like Gowbarrow the exposure just made me a bit nervous. Loughrigg I didn't like the steps, after descending the stony bit on Gowbarrow I photographed I think I might have a bit more confidence with the Loughrigg steps. Maybe.

I've no experience with scree I don't think so I've no idea how I'd be with it. Now I'm not so sure I should attempt this. What's the front slope like? Maybe I'll have to walk a different day.
  If you follow my route round just go up the tourist trail from the E instead, you are going to walk past it anyway.  It is easier and the route is obvious.  I only did it from the back because I had Mrs N with me and she does not do hills so I did a quick and dirty up & back while she waited for me at the bottom.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 23:22:18, 04/11/18
  If you follow my route round just go up the tourist trail from the E instead, you are going to walk past it anyway.  It is easier and the route is obvious.  I only did it from the back because I had Mrs N with me and she does not do hills so I did a quick and dirty up & back while she waited for me at the bottom.

Just to be sure I know what you mean and don't find myself falling off of the hill, I should head west up and down the trail here (http://bing.com/maps/default.aspx?cp=54.529066~-3.158042&style=s&lvl=15&sp=point.54.529066_-3.158042_Here) (54.529066,-3.158042, NY 2515415482) right?
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Mel on 23:32:19, 04/11/18
Rob, Castle Crag doesn’t have any exposure – yes the top part is very steep (but short) but the sides of the path are about waist height so it’s easy to steady yourself.  The scree, if I’m thinking of the right place, is a MASSIVE pile of quarried slate chippings so nothing like real scree.  Quite grippy in fact.  Get your poles out, take your time and give it a go.  There’s red squirrels in the woods too – I saw my first one on the way up Castle Crag…. Magical moment  :)


Scree:
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B0SGx_cPBig/Wa1rdcJkmCI/AAAAAAAAAOg/brORRe4SBeITgeiDlcN04k8V3E7Bw7q7ACEwYBhgL/s640/968966_470998806321439_756759384_n%255B1%255D.jpg)
The very steep bit:
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0iYmVjLI-aQ/Wa1rfefAxBI/AAAAAAAAAOg/RE3MOEbt67cyYcnSTvjji5ZmjLxwEM0wQCEwYBhgL/s640/983821_470998799654773_1115365726_n%255B1%255D.jpg)
It was my second Lake District hill and I didn't find it scary (I also aren't really a fan of exposure).  Tiring for the untrained and unfit, yes. Scary, no.
Bet it's lovely at this time of year with the tree colours  :)
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 23:37:32, 04/11/18
Thanks Mel.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 23:39:37, 04/11/18
Just to be sure I know what you mean and don't find myself falling off of the hill, I should head west up and down the trail here (http://bing.com/maps/default.aspx?cp=54.529066~-3.158042& class=bbc_link target=_blank) (54.529066,-3.158042, NY 2515415482) right?


Yes - you can't miss it.  Mels pics are the tourist trail.  There is no exposure on that side.  This is not the scree I mentioned - and as she says it is perfectly stable as it is well trampled.  It is well worth the climb for the view alone and it is a bit of a mysterious place.
The path up the back also had some scree on it - again it is stable but relatively more exposed and the path is steeper.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 23:49:57, 04/11/18
Cheers ninthace.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 18:04:04, 05/11/18
Castle Crag. It took me longer to get up and down (mostly down) Castle Crag than I would have liked so I had to abandon doing ninthace's route on account of the possibility of missing public transport (and getting dark, although I did have a torch with me). Still I did the main bit, it was probably the most strenuous walk so far as a fixed level of exertion across the whole walk although bits of other walks have been more strenuous (the steepest bit near the start of Latrigg from Keswick, the final approach to Airy Crag on Gowbarrow Fell).

This was the first time I got my walking poles out! They sped me up noticeably on the flat, helped with the ascent and they did help with the descent although I still suck at descending hills.

I found the slate pile quite scary as parts of it doesn't always have a pile at the edge to keep you on it, there are points where you could drop off. I almost abandoned the climb a third of the way up it when my foot slid a bit (it was only a bit don't be put off if you're a novice hill walker reading this). Here's a photo I took at that point:

(http://i67.tinypic.com/9jg4gm.jpg)

I also nearly didn't do the summit because it looked like the path just stopped although it wasn't hard when I actually did it and the path didn't just stop. Here's a photo of the way the path looks:

(http://i68.tinypic.com/jj9smd.jpg)

Glad I did though as the views were excellent. Thanks for recommending Castle Crag Slowcoach!

(http://i67.tinypic.com/35b5u1s.jpg)

But where next? I'm running out of suggested routes I can do on public transport and before it gets dark (though there's a few left). I'm not so sure about Catbells as I've had such mixed reactions to it from Catbells is easy to don't do it novice walkers have lots of accidents there! If anyone has more suggestions I'm appreciative.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 18:23:56, 05/11/18
Glad you made it.  Hard pull isn't it?  Would a crossing of High Rigg be beyond your dignity - not especially high but round one side and back over it from N to S or vice versa?
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: April on 18:44:42, 05/11/18
Yes High Rigg is a fab fell, good suggestion from Ninthace and on the 555 bus route, get off at Thirlmere Dam Road End. You can do a circular walk over the top and down the valley on the St John's in the Vale side.

Also Sale Fell and or Ling Fell. Get the X4/X5 to Dubwath or Brathay Hill walk up the lane by Routenbeck, footpath a bit further on. Both nice fells to do.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Ridge on 19:03:37, 05/11/18
Well done Rob  O0 Castle Crag is small but not an easy walk.


Is there public transport to Whinlatter visitors centre? If so you could head up to Lords Seat and/or Barf.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: April on 19:10:50, 05/11/18
Is there public transport to Whinlatter visitors centre? If so you could head up to Lords Seat and/or Barf.

Not at the moment, the 77 and 77A are on their winter break. The X4 or X5 (sorry can never remember which one) goes to Thornthwaite and the fells can be accessed from there.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 19:18:44, 05/11/18
Glad you made it.  Hard pull isn't it?

The back muscles of my quads felt somewhat weakened when I got to the bottom. They're fine now though.

Would a crossing of High Rigg be beyond your dignity - not especially high but round one side and back over it from N to S or vice versa?

Don't suppose you have a GPS trace or route?

Yes High Rigg is a fab fell, good suggestion from Ninthace and on the 555 bus route, get off at Thirlmere Dam Road End. You can do a circular walk over the top and down the valley on the St John's in the Vale side.

How will I navigate without a GPS route? There's no paths marked on the OS map that lead over from south to north. I can find one one OpenStreetMap I could plot that as a GPS route I suppose. But what would you do if you were going to do this route April?

Also Sale Fell and or Ling Fell. Get the X4/X5 to Dubwath or Brathay Hill walk up the lane by Routenbeck, footpath a bit further on. Both nice fells to do.

Thank you.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Mel on 19:30:56, 05/11/18
Well done Rob!  Castle Crag's a smashing little hill. 

So is High Rigg (it's my favourite Lake District fell  :smitten: )


Here's a downloadable GPS route from Ordnance Survey:


https://osmaps.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/route/1203541/High-Rigg

 
If you're partial to a cheese scone then I highly recommend Low Bridge End Farm which you pass very near the end of the walk (if you do it clockwise).   

 

Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 19:35:00, 05/11/18
I only have one trace for a crossing of High Rigg. It starts at Mel’s Frotress of Solitude and takes in the Castlerigg Stone Circle. I am sure you can adapt something from it. As to there being no paths, remember the little black pecked lines are paths and a glance at GoogleEarth will show you tracks too.


http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=2521 (http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=2521)
Start at the bottom, go round to St Johns Vale and cut across to cut out the top half.


This trace, not one of mine, starts at Keswick so you could bus out and walk back
http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=1816 (http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=1816)
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Mel on 19:46:26, 05/11/18
I only have one trace for a crossing of High Rigg. It starts at Mel’s Frotress of Solitude ..


 :D   I remember that walk.  In fact, I believe I still have the laminated map of the route that you gave me  O0


The Fortress of Solitude has all its hatches battened down now ready for a winter snooze.



Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 19:52:44, 05/11/18

 :D   I remember that walk.  In fact, I believe I still have the laminated map of the route that you gave me  O0


The Fortress of Solitude has all its hatches battened down now ready for a winter snooze.


I remember it too, a fun day out.  Hang on to the map, it will be worth money when I'm rich and famous.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 20:03:39, 05/11/18
Well done Rob!  Castle Crag's a smashing little hill. 

So is High Rigg (it's my favourite Lake District fell  :smitten: )

That's a glowing recommendation. I'm dead curious now.

Here's a downloadable GPS route from Ordnance Survey:

https://osmaps.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/route/1203541/High-Rigg (https://osmaps.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/route/1203541/High-Rigg)

Thanks Mel. I still wonder how April would have navigated.

If you're partial to a cheese scone then I highly recommend Low Bridge End Farm which you pass very near the end of the walk (if you do it clockwise). 

I am partial to the odd cheese scone. Hope the farm is open, the walkers tea room was shut today in Rosthwaite :(

Ninthace thanks for your traces but I'm too slow to do those in time before it gets dark or the public transport has finished :( To give you some idea my speed up/down Orrest Head was 1.5 mph, Gowbarrow was 1.2 mph and Castle Crag was 1 mph (although this included the flat walk up to it so my actual speed was slower!) I'm slow in both directions but I'm especially slow at descents. I watch people walk away from me descending and I've no idea how they can do it without falling over. My max speed is 3.5 mph and I think my average speed on a flat is between 2 and 3 mph, but closer to 2.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Mel on 20:33:10, 05/11/18
My uphill/downhill speed is about half a mile an hour so you're not doing so bad Rob   O0


At least you have (reasonably) easy access to hills.  I don't  :(


Flat speed locally is about 3mph.


Undulating ground averages at about 1.5 to 2.5mph.


I stop... a LOT ... to get my breath, erm, sorry, admire the scenery  :D    On the plus side, my leg muscles seem to have got more conditioned to steep hills and are usually fine again the next day (as opposed to my first ascent up Catbells when it took me about a week to recover  ;D  )




Can I make a suggestion?  One day in the not too distant future, go back and have another go at your Latrigg route.  See if you find it any easier


(I bet you do  O0 )


Then, your mission, if you decide to accept it, is to tackle Loughrigg  :)

Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: April on 21:18:06, 05/11/18
How will I navigate without a GPS route? There's no paths marked on the OS map that lead over from south to north. I can find one one OpenStreetMap I could plot that as a GPS route I suppose. But what would you do if you were going to do this route April? I still wonder how April would have navigated.

I have done this fell quite a few times and know it very well now. There are some paths marked on the OS map, look for the black dashed lines, the map doesn't show them all though. There is a path on the ground (in fact there are several paths across the fell) all the way across the fell that you can follow, like the one shown in the GPS thing that ninthace has provided. To check routes when I didn't know them I have used websites like David Hall's (no longer available  :(), Wainwright Routes, Sharkey's Dream, Wainwright Walking, they all have maps with the routes on and there are others out there. Also of course, the Wainwright guides were my first port of call and also Mark Richards fellranger guides are also very good to help you discover where the paths are when they aren't marked on the maps.

Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 21:43:53, 05/11/18
Thanks again April and you also made me realise I could use ninthace's routes without following the whole route, I don't know why I didn't realise this before when ninthace himself said I should cut out the top bit (and adapt something from it)!
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 22:52:17, 05/11/18
Thanks again April and you also made me realise I could use ninthace's routes without following the whole route, I don't know why I didn't realise this before when ninthace himself said I should cut across the top!


Up one side of High Rigg, up between Low Rigg and down across the middle is about 5 miles. 
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 23:00:31, 05/11/18
At least you have (reasonably) easy access to hills.  I don't  :( 

Shame. I guess I'm lucky.

Can I make a suggestion?  One day in the not too distant future, go back and have another go at your Latrigg route.  See if you find it any easier

(I bet you do  O0 )

Maybe but I'm liking the adventure of doing new routes right now.

Then, your mission, if you decide to accept it, is to tackle Loughrigg  :)

I will go back to Loughrigg at some point, we have unfinished business!
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 23:09:18, 05/11/18
I will go back to Loughrigg at some point, we have unfinished business!


I know a route from the Ambleside side that avoids the steps altogether  O0
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 23:14:16, 05/11/18
Up one side of High Rigg, up between Low Rigg and down across the middle is about 5 miles.
That's fine. If only it wasn't rain predicted for Wednesday  :(  Still it will keep.

I know a route from the Ambleside side that avoids the steps altogether  O0

That's the route I wanted to walk back. If I can't face the steps I'll do it from Ambleside but it would be nice to defeat the steps, I've got more experience walking on stone now and with steep bits.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 01:53:09, 23/03/19
Now I have a car after having to relocate I'm planning on doing High Rigg next. I looked at (and bought their gpx file, which turned out to be less useful than ninthace's trace):


https://www.walklakes.co.uk/walk_99.html

 
And it says the route is boggy. Do I really need gaiters or is there a path around the boggy bits? Not up for getting bog in my boots!
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: forgotmyoldpassword on 10:30:23, 24/03/19
It does get a little boggy if it rains a few days  before you go due to the way the fell holds water, however when I was last there it was fine.  There are a few springs and tarns across the tops which collect water, but overall it's a well trod route and I'd want good grip on my shoes more than I'd want gaiters.  Personally speaking High Rigg is one of my favourite fells, interesting undulating route across the tops, good crags nearby and superb access.  If you're arriving early I've found Stanah has a lodge which does a solid buffet breakfast at a low price before heading off on your walk, or you can grab a coffee before the route back if you aren't much of a fan of carrying a thermos/stove and you run into it half way around.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 15:53:11, 24/03/19
Thanks forgotmyoldpassword  O0  I'll check it out.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 16:34:44, 25/03/19
I enjoyed High Rigg, like you said the terrain varies and it undulates. Nothing too taxing and it was only a little bit boggy. Wasn't so fond of the gravel path back but it soon became more interesting. Thanks for suggesting it ninthace. I'm glad I had your trace or I would have got lost!
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 17:26:22, 25/03/19
I enjoyed High Rigg, like you said the terrain varies and it undulates. Nothing too taxing and it was only a little bit boggy. Wasn't so fond of the gravel path back but it soon became more interesting. Thanks for suggesting it ninthace. I'm glad I had your trace or I would have got lost!


You are most welcome - glad you enjoyed it.  O0    I am slowly putting some traces on to ViewRanger starting at the present day and working backwards.  I have got back to somewhere in 2015 so the number of traces in the Lakes, North Pennines and Dales will slowly increase.  The trace I quoted is https://my.viewranger.com/route/details/MjA4NzAyMQ==?ref=54.58147399977028|-3.097588792690658|13 (https://my.viewranger.com/route/details/MjA4NzAyMQ==?ref=54.58147399977028|-3.097588792690658|13) on VewRanger.  My user name is Ninth Ace.  It seems I have 2 folllowers which is a bit spooky - I am reminded of the "don't follow me I'm lost" T-shirt.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 19:23:19, 26/03/19
I'm tempted to do Harter Fell next as I haven't done a mountain yet (my highest ascent is 519 metres up High Cup Nick to a height of 599 metres, mountains I think are 610 metres) but am a little put off by the description of an indistinct path... Do you have a trace ninthace? I couldn't work out how to search you on ViewRanger. Is this about as easy as mountains get or is there an even easier mountain just so I can say I've done one? Maybe I'll do Lords Seat next instead, do you have a trace of that? Hmm.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 19:53:51, 26/03/19
I'm tempted to do Harter Fell next as I haven't done a mountain yet (my highest ascent is 519 metres up High Cup Nick to a height of 599 metres, mountains I think are 610 metres) but am a little put off by the description of an indistinct path... Do you have a trace ninthace? I couldn't work out how to search you on ViewRanger. Is this about as easy as mountains get or is there an even easier mountain just so I can say I've done one? Maybe I'll do Lords Seat next instead, do you have a trace of that? Hmm.


Harter Fell - sorry no.
Lords Seat https://osmaps.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/route/1911334/160520-Barf (https://osmaps.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/route/1911334/160520-Barf), https://my.viewranger.com/route/details/MjA3MTE5OA==?ref=54.60899469477151 (https://my.viewranger.com/route/details/MjA3MTE5OA==?ref=54.60899469477151)|-3.219006588482671|13




Here is someone else's trace for Harter Fell - assuming this is the Harter Fell you mean, there is another above Haweswater http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=3986 (http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=3986)
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: hongkongphooey on 03:25:37, 27/03/19
Hello,


So I want to tackle some fells but I'm 21 and a half stone at only 5 foot 8. I did Latrigg from Keswick and found it quite challenging at the start where it was steepest but manageable and I got up the rest of it. It made me huff and puff some of the way but I wasn't tired at the end of it and could have gone further.


Then I tried Loughrigg fell from moss common which was easy until I came to the stone "steps" at NY 342056


(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1976/31266650588_c77f71c03d_z_d.jpg)


and I watched much lighter people than me slip and stumble on the way down which worried me about coming back (it's a lot harder to stop at my size), plus they looked like they went on forever (you can't see how high they go in the photograph but if you know Loughrigg you will know they go on for a lot more than the photographed bit). I think it's a bit much to expect myself to go up those steps and Loughrigg is supposed to be an easy fell.


But I could cope with Latrigg OK so there's probably other fells I could cope with. Can someone who knows the fells well offer any opinions? Thanks!

Hi Rob it has been mentioned more than once, but Catbells is a must do fell and you can easily extend the route to make a day of it......enjoy!
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 11:32:13, 27/03/19
Thanks ninthace. I do mean the other Harter Fell though (as suggested by Innominate Man). The only route (http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=17) I could find on Harold Street takes in a number of peaks at once and isn't suitable (too long for a hill walk at my hill speed). Not sure wandering around on indistinct paths without a trace is a good idea for me just yet. Actually (added this edit), I forgot you can record traces with ViewRanger, I could always record a trace then if I do get lost I can follow myself back. Hmm.

hongkongphooey I've avoided Catbells due to getting varying opinions about how difficult the final "scramble" is. I'll check it out at some point though.


Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 11:50:00, 27/03/19
You mean this Harter Fell?
https://osmaps.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/route/2755550/Trail-magazine-February-19-Harter-Fell-Lake-District (https://osmaps.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/route/2755550/Trail-magazine-February-19-Harter-Fell-Lake-District)
http://www.wainwrightroutes.co.uk/harterfell_r1.htm (http://www.wainwrightroutes.co.uk/harterfell_r1.htm)
If so, from the contours, I don't think there is an easy way up it.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 12:02:28, 27/03/19
You mean this Harter Fell?


That's the one. The wainwright route is short if not easy. Pity they don't let you download it as a gpx though I suppose a picture of it would suffice. Maybe I'll leave Harter Fell for a bit, it was mostly interesting because it's the only mountain anyone has suggested.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: forgotmyoldpassword on 12:21:36, 27/03/19
You can skip the Catbells scramble by going around on the tourist path (to the west of the 'normal' line up if I remember correctly).  It's an easy ascent which takes you towards the ridge which scrambles up towards the head of the valley eventually.  You could take the path to the saddle between Maiden Moor and Catbells, walk to the summit of either then either retrace your steps down or scramble down hill if conditions are good (and you choose Catbells). 


Were I in your position I'd buy myself a 'wobble board' and spend my time standing on it at home whilst watching TV/cooking/doing mundane things.  It gives you excellent ankle strength, tones your core and gives you a low level work out for potentially hours at a time - all things which will aid you with balance and confidence in the hills.


Also in the case of the Lake District, there is often little need for a gps track (a 'trace'), as the paths are usually well indicated so don't let exploring worry you - there are lots of low level tracks through valleys which are stupendously beautiful routes which both keep the wind off and offer a very obvious navigation reference. 


Shame about Loughrigg Fell, I'm the same with descents over stones (I dislike them immensely) but it becomes easier to avoid any drama with hiking poles and a steady, non-rushed descent.  It's obviously a problem with over-use and erosion but with the popularity of many summits this sort of preventative modification to routes may be better than heavily eroded trails!
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Ridge on 13:40:05, 27/03/19

it was mostly interesting because it's the only mountain anyone has suggested.

It is tricky making suggestions but, now you have a car, fells which should be on your list to consider are
Binsey
Fell Barrow
Low Fell
Hardknott
Dodd
Latrigg
both Mell Fells
Selside Pike
Sale Fell
Lord's Seat and Barf
Grike



Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 16:17:54, 27/03/19

ninthace I found a trace (https://www.wikiloc.com/wikiloc/download.do?id=1471388) on Wikiloc (gunwharfman mentioned it in the rant thread, looks good) not sure I'll make it my next walk but when I feel like a challenge.

forgotmyoldpassword I think I'd manage Loughrigg now I've done quite a few things on my walks that scared me a little so have a bit more confidence  I'll go back there at some point. Thanks for all that info.

Thanks Ridge that's a handy list that should keep me going! Which would you say has the best views?


I think I'll do Lord's Seat next just because someone I know has done it and we can talk about it next time I see them.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 17:04:20, 05/04/19
Lord's Seat and Barf.

These entries are a bit like trip reports I suppose (or summaries). My motivation in writing them is a hope it will give others a little idea of what to expect and how difficult it is.

If you're thinking of doing this walk my opinion of it is the ascent to Lord's Seat is an easy but a pleasant forest walk (though I prefer smaller less "roady" type tracks) with good views in a couple of places (including Lord's Seat), then it's quite boggy between Lord's Seat and Barf (I avoided the boggy bits but this will slow you down a lot). Best views from Barf. The descent from Barf was the hardest bit, I had to take it slow as it was relatively steep and I took pause at the waterfall you have to cross to reenter the forest as you have to walk on wet stones underneath the water, I thought my boots would slip but they didn't. The rest of the way back is a lot like the ascent to Lord's Seat with plenty of uphill bits too but not steep.

A couple of people suggested it, Ridge recently and it was suggested a while ago. Thanks for suggesting it. I can definitely do more challenging fells than Lord's Seat but the descent from Barf did challenge.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 20:20:08, 06/04/19
Thinking of doing Selside Pike next so I'll have done a mountain. Downloaded ninthace's route (http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=2733) from haroldstreet.org.uk but it includes Branstree. Is this where you think I should start from Ridge, the Mardale Head car park? Is doing Branstree too a step too far? Should I follow ninthace's route but turn around and go back again at Selside Pike?
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 20:43:59, 06/04/19
Thinking of doing Selside Pike next so I'll have done a mountain. Downloaded ninthace's route (http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=2733) from haroldstreet.org.uk but it includes Branstree. Is this where you think I should start from Ridge, the Mardale Head car park? Is doing Branstree too a step too far? Should I follow ninthace's route but turn around and go back again at Selside Pike?
I did it anti-clockwise, used the track up rather than the corpse road
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Ridge on 20:53:41, 06/04/19
Lots of other, really knowledgeable, people here who will have opinions and, in the end, you are the one who has to judge how you feel.


If you head up from Mardale clockwise you can decide when you get to the top of Selside if you want to carry on. Or you could go clockwise and decide on Branstree if you can also manage Selside.
You can also go up from Swindale, I think the parking is near Truss Gap, this is probably better as an out and back even if you also pick up Branstree

Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 21:19:25, 06/04/19
Thanks Ridge. These walks I keep doing are mostly a mystery to me until I turn up, don't really know how to assess if it's suitable or not other than turn up and have a go. I just hope the knowledgeable folk on this forum who read my fat hikers thread can guesstimate based on what I say about the routes I've done but I'd imagine it's tricky without walking in my shoes.


Thanks to all who've helped.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: richardh1905 on 22:54:54, 06/04/19

That's the one. The wainwright route is short if not easy. Pity they don't let you download it as a gpx though I suppose a picture of it would suffice. Maybe I'll leave Harter Fell for a bit, it was mostly interesting because it's the only mountain anyone has suggested.



Harter Fell is quite steep and rough, Rob, even though the distances aren't great. How many miles do you feel capable of tackling on a walk? I'll have a think about other hills.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 23:22:31, 06/04/19

Harter Fell is quite steep and rough, Rob, even though the distances aren't great. How many miles do you feel capable of tackling on a walk? I'll have a think about other hills.


Well that's a tough question to answer. Some years ago whilst sleeping rough I felt compelled to keep moving by a controlling force (won't go into it but the shrinks call it paranoid schizophrenia) and I walked all day and most of the night during the summer for weeks with just the occasional sit down here and there. At about 20 hours a day walking, even if I was only doing 2 miles an hour (and I was lighter then so I'm quite sure I'd have been faster) simple math says I must have been doing at least 40 miles a day but it was painful and mostly in urban areas. Now I'm heavier I expect I could still walk all day but I want to keep it to daylight so say 10 am arrive and finished by 7 that's 9 hours I think I move about 2 miles an hour on the flat so 18 miles on the flat tops but I'm not sure I'd enjoy walking for 9 hours at the moment, more like 6 giving 12 miles but that's on the flat. I really think in hours not miles. Translating it to a hill is harder as on castle Crag I moved less than 1 mile per hour while on gowbarrow it was more like 1 and a half. It depends on the hill, steep decents, rocky bits slow me down a lot more than other people I see walking. On these easy fells I'd guess about 8.5 miles? If it's hard for me to know it must be hard for you too but hopefully castle Crag and Gowbarrow (and this rambling train of thought) give you some idea.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: richardh1905 on 08:35:02, 07/04/19
Based upon what you have said, Rob, I would have a crack at Loadpot Hill (671m) from Pooley Bridge. The distance is around 5 miles to the top, but it is along the course of an old Roman Road and the gradient is easy. I walked most of this route as a teenager, but we turned back just a few hundred yards from the summit, for reasons that I cannot recall.

I'll create a Viewranger route.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Ridge on 08:40:20, 07/04/19
Based upon what you have said, Rob, I would have a crack at Loadpot Hill (671m) from Pooley Bridge.
and you get the bonus Wainwright of Arthurs Pike on the way.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: richardh1905 on 08:44:54, 07/04/19
..if he is interested in that kind of thing  ;) Arthur's Pike could easily be included.

Rob - I've just created this on Viewranger. 5 miles to the top. Let me know whether you can view it - I'm still a relative newcomer to viewranger.

https://my.viewranger.com/route/details/MjI5MTY3OQ== (https://my.viewranger.com/route/details/MjI5MTY3OQ==)
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 10:02:13, 07/04/19
..if he is interested in that kind of thing  ;) Arthur's Pike could easily be included.

Rob - I've just created this on Viewranger. 5 miles to the top. Let me know whether you can view it - I'm still a relative newcomer to viewranger.

https://my.viewranger.com/route/details/MjI5MTY3OQ== (https://my.viewranger.com/route/details/MjI5MTY3OQ==)


Yes, thank you Richard I can view it. I might do this next seeing as you went to the trouble of plotting a route for me instead of Selside Pike. I've edited my original post as as I notice Loadpot Hill is a mountain!
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 10:54:03, 07/04/19
and you get the bonus Wainwright of Arthurs Pike on the way.


Can this be included? I've got to walk back again too which takes this trip up to 10 miles, I would have thought it's likely to take me 6 hours already (though maybe not if there's a road of sorts to follow) which is fine but I don't want it to take more than 9 hours or I'm risking it getting dark.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: forgotmyoldpassword on 11:09:36, 07/04/19
It has a pretty decent 'path' - it's vulnerable to some bogging in very wet conditions but otherwise lovely. 


If you want to cut the route down I'd start at Pooley Bridge, get the ferry to Howtown - head up Fusedale, then you're on the tops via Groove Gill.  Get to the top of Loadpot Hill and you've got a lovely slow meandering downhill all the way back - I'd keep on the Arthur's Pike path for better views of Ullwater - but you should have Cross Fell ahead of you on a clear day too.   
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 11:40:29, 07/04/19
It has a pretty decent 'path' - it's vulnerable to some bogging in very wet conditions but otherwise lovely. 


If you want to cut the route down I'd start at Pooley Bridge, get the ferry to Howtown - head up Fusedale, then you're on the tops via Groove Gill.  Get to the top of Loadpot Hill and you've got a lovely slow meandering downhill all the way back - I'd keep on the Arthur's Pike path for better views of Ullwater - but you should have Cross Fell ahead of you on a clear day too.


That sounds like a good walk though I can't find a trace of it so I'll have to plot it out to get the distance. Will post back when I have worked out how to do that.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: forgotmyoldpassword on 12:03:09, 07/04/19
https://www.dropbox.com/s/dfc9ld9ytputr9n/arthur_pk.gpx?dl=1




I'll save you the trouble, Rob!


Whether you walk it clockwise or anti-clockwise is up to you.  You may prefer a couple of hours effort getting on the tops, then a leisurely amble downhill for the majority of the route instead, especially since in that part of the world the wind will usually be at your back if you do it that way (anti clockwise).  Otherwise you'll be heading up via Roehead as Richard's track shows you.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 12:03:34, 07/04/19
This route can be extended to include Loadpot Hill
http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=2642 (http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=2642)
and this one includes Loadpot Hill though you may wish to descend the same ridge rather than continue round
http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=1654 (http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=1654)
It is is an easy drive in from Appelby.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 12:21:11, 07/04/19
I'll save you the trouble, Rob!

Thanks. I had plotted it but was looking for a gpx hosting site to put it on rather than my Google Drive  It was good to learn how to plot a route even if I needn't have.

It looks like a nice walk. I'll go with more effort to get up there then leisurely amble down.

Looking at ninthace's traces doing both that way would take too long plus if I do the route we plotted I get to ride the ferry which I enjoy.

Thank you guys most helpful. I owe you all a beer!
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: richardh1905 on 13:24:43, 07/04/19
It has a pretty decent 'path' - it's vulnerable to some bogging in very wet conditions but otherwise lovely. 


If you want to cut the route down I'd start at Pooley Bridge, get the ferry to Howtown - head up Fusedale, then you're on the tops via Groove Gill.  Get to the top of Loadpot Hill and you've got a lovely slow meandering downhill all the way back - I'd keep on the Arthur's Pike path for better views of Ullwater - but you should have Cross Fell ahead of you on a clear day too.



How steep is the Groove Gill path? I ask because Rob is not so confident about steep ground.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: richardh1905 on 13:27:18, 07/04/19
Thank you guys most helpful. I owe you all a beer!



A pleasure, Rob - let us know how you get on.


And I might hold you to that as I'm moving down to the Lake District soon, hopefully later this year!
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: richardh1905 on 13:28:25, 07/04/19

Can this be included? I've got to walk back again too which takes this trip up to 10 miles, I would have thought it's likely to take me 6 hours already (though maybe not if there's a road of sorts to follow) which is fine but I don't want it to take more than 9 hours or I'm risking it getting dark.



Arthur's Pike could easily be included, Rob. It would barely add half a mile to the route.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 13:35:28, 07/04/19
If elimination of gradient was my objective, I would start at Dew Pot Holes on the road up from Helton (easy off road parking) and walk up the ridge to Loadpot Hill via The Cockpit and return via Arthur's Pike.  Not as aesthetic as an ascent from Pooley Bridge but a lot less height gain (starting height 305m as opposed to 150m).
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 13:38:41, 07/04/19

How steep is the Groove Gill path? I ask because Rob is not so confident about steep ground.


I'm quite a bit more confident going up than down steeps. I did notice the contour lines on Viewranger and wouldn't like to come to a point I was scared of after climbing a way I wouldn't want to descend. Having said that, not wanting to go back down would likely push me to continue. I expect if there was a scramble they'd have told me?



A pleasure, Rob - let us know how you get on.


And I might hold you to that as I'm moving down to the Lake District soon, hopefully later this year!


Sure. Nice. Hold me to it  O0
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 13:45:28, 07/04/19
If elimination of gradient was my objective, I would start at Dew Pot Holes on the road up from Helton (easy off road parking) and walk up the ridge to Loadpot Hill via The Cockpit and return via Arthur's Pike.  Not as aesthetic as an ascent from Pooley Bridge but a lot less height gain (starting height 305m as opposed to 150m).


I'm going to gamble and select the harder route, I doubt I've been guided into anything I'm going to fall off of. I can always ride around on the ferry for a while and come back another day via these alternatives if for some reason I bottle it like I did Loughrigg.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 13:50:38, 07/04/19
Not as aesthetic as an ascent from Pooley Bridge but a lot less height gain (starting height 305m as opposed to 150m).


That's the way I'm planning to decend, I'm planning on ascending via Fusedale.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: richardh1905 on 15:31:29, 07/04/19

I'm quite a bit more confident going up than down steeps. I did notice the contour lines on Viewranger and wouldn't like to come to a point I was scared of after climbing a way I wouldn't want to descend. Having said that, not wanting to go back down would likely push me to continue. I expect if there was a scramble they'd have told me?

Sure. Nice. Hold me to it  O0

I've not been up that way, but just studying the map the Fusedale/Groove Gill path looks strenuous rather than scary - no big drops or anything.

And I look forward to sharing a pint with you!  O0
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 14:15:10, 10/04/19
Loadpot Hill was a failure. I got to NY 44869 17204 and did something painful to my back. Given I do this for pleasure not punishment I aborted and walked back to Howtown. Not done with this route, I'll be back.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 16:12:09, 10/04/19
Loadpot Hill was a failure. I got to NY 44869 17204 and did something painful to my back. Given I do this for pleasure not punishment I aborted and walked back to Howtown. Not done with this route, I'll be back.
Sorry to hear that.  You were definitely going the hard way though!
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 16:58:20, 10/04/19
Sorry to hear that.  You were definitely going the hard way though!


Only 223 more metres of climbing, I was 2/3 of the way there. Bit worried my average speed was only about 1 mile an hour (hard to be exact as I wandered up into farm and also wandered around for a bit looking for the path near Groove Gill, which is where the route is marked, not the right of way on the map) but I expect I'll speed up when I get to the gentle descent at the top. Going to pack some new batteries for my torch next time just in case next time.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 17:25:38, 10/04/19

Only 223 more metres of climbing, I was 2/3 of the way there. Bit worried my average speed was only about 1 mile an hour (hard to be exact as I wandered up into farm and also wandered around for a bit looking for the path near Groove Gill, which is where the route is marked, not the right of way on the map) but I expect I'll speed up when I get to the gentle descent at the top. Going to pack some new batteries for my torch next time just in case next time.
 
Learning points for you:
Paths on OS maps are often works of fiction especially if they curve smoothly or run straight across obviously rough country.
The line of the "actual" path shows clearly on GoogleEarth (less obvious on the OS Aerial image though).  It is a good idea to compare a trace against aerial imagery if you can and replot or make a note of the difference.
A lot of walk traces available on the internet are not taken from live recordings of the actual route.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Ridge on 19:33:12, 10/04/19
That's a shame Rob but sounds like the right decision.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 20:02:12, 10/04/19
That's a shame Rob but sounds like the right decision.


I don't know what I did to it, I don't think I've pulled it although it felt similar at the time but it's only twinging now. With any luck it's trivial and gone by the time I'm ready for another attempt. Weather looks OK next week maybe I'll have another crack at it between the next two Saturdays.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 20:11:45, 10/04/19
 
The line of the "actual" path shows clearly on GoogleEarth (less obvious on the OS Aerial image though).  It is a good idea to compare a trace against aerial imagery if you can and replot or make a note of the difference.


I will have to take a look at Google Earth again OS Mapping doesn't seem to allow me to plot two routes at once.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: richardh1905 on 20:12:21, 10/04/19
Unlucky Rob, hope your back recovers. Definitely the correct decision to turn back.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 20:33:21, 10/04/19

I will have to take a look at Google Earth again OS Mapping doesn't seem to allow me to plot two routes at once.
It doesn't but within limits you can edit an existing route and save it under a different name.  The thing that can cripples you is the "snap to" function that defaults to on inside national parks.  Turn that off and you can drag way points where you want them.  As far as I can tell, if you have an existing route you can delete way points and drag them but you cant insert extra way points.  However, you can in ViewRanger and you can get Google Satellite imagery which is the same as GE.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 20:52:34, 10/04/19
It doesn't but within limits you can edit an existing route and save it under a different name.  The thing that can cripples you is the "snap to" function that defaults to on inside national parks.  Turn that off and you can drag way points where you want them.  As far as I can tell, if you have an existing route you can delete way points and drag the  but you cant insert extra way points.  However, you can in ViewRanger and you can get Google Satellite imagery which is the same as GE.


I can't work out how to do any of that with OS mapping website, are you using a PC app? Didn't realise ViewRanger had satellite imagery or you could insert way points thanks again ninthace  :)
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 21:27:14, 10/04/19

I can't work out how to do any of that with OS mapping website, are you using a PC app? Didn't realise ViewRanger had satellite imagery or you could insert way points thanks again ninthace  :)

Open https://osmaps.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/ and sign in.
You need to own the route first so you will need to have plotted it yourself.  Alternatively, if it is someone else's route, open the route, select export as gpx and send it to a file then open the route tab and re-import the gpx file.  Then you can edit it.
Click on  Routes Tab
Select My Routes
Select route
Select View Route
Now you can see the waypoints and you can drag them about to edit the route.  You can remove them using the remove tool
When you have finished select save
Give the file a new name and save it when you have finished
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 21:51:52, 10/04/19
Thanks ninthace. The error I was making was not clicking "edit" at the select route stage.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 22:10:49, 11/04/19
https://www.dropbox.com/s/dfc9ld9ytputr9n/arthur_pk.gpx?dl=1 (https://www.dropbox.com/s/dfc9ld9ytputr9n/arthur_pk.gpx?dl=1)

I tried to convert this to a KML file using this (http://kmltools.appspot.com/gpx2kml) website but when I opened the resulting KML file (using default options) it doesn't show up in Google Earth on my mobile. I doubt I want a tour instead of a track so how have I errored?

Edit: I converted it using this (https://m.gpsies.com) site but I'd still like to know why the first site didn't work.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 22:14:12, 11/04/19
As an aside my back seems fine now as do my legs which is unusual for me after a walk. After giving it a bit more rest to be safe I should be able to have another crack at this.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 22:37:31, 11/04/19
I tried to convert this to a KML file using this (http://kmltools.appspot.com/gpx2kml) website but when I opened the resulting KML file (using default options) it doesn't show up in Google Earth on my mobile. I doubt I want a tour instead of a track so how have I errored?
  It doesn't work on my PC either.  The gpx file opens in GE but not when I convert it to a kml using the same website (which is the one I use too).  The kml file is only 1k.  I have tested the site with one of my own gpx files and it works fine.  The only thing I can suggest is to plot a path over the gpx trace in GE  - this will give you a kml file you can edit.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 22:40:56, 11/04/19
  It doesn't work on my PC either.  The gpx file opens in GE but not when I convert it to a kml using the same website (which is the one I use too).  The kml file is only 1k.  I have tested the site with one of my own gpx files and it works fine.  The only thing I can suggest is to plot a path over the gpx trace in GE  - this will give you a kml file you can edit.


I don't think the mobile app is as sophisticated as the PC app, it doesn't appear to plot routes or open GPX files. This is the first time I've missed having a PC. Nevermind, I'll have to make do with ViewRanger.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 22:47:24, 11/04/19

I don't think the mobile app is as sophisticated as the PC app, it doesn't appear to plot routes. This is the first time I've missed having a PC. Nevermind, I'll have to make do with ViewRanger.


Yes the gpx file can be used to create an editable route route in VR.  I had a look at it in VR - doesn't look like a bad plot as it is.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 22:55:15, 11/04/19

Yes the gpx file can be used to create an editable route route in VR.  I had a look at it in VR - doesn't look like a bad plot as it is.


Thank you. There was a bit I wasn't sure of past Groove Gill but looking at it closely I expect I'll be able to see where to go on the ground.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 23:08:25, 11/04/19

Thank you. There was a bit I wasn't sure of past Groove Gill but looking at it closely I expect I'll be able to see where to go on the ground.
Move WP30 114m west and WP31 75m south
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 23:33:56, 11/04/19
Move WP30 114m west and WP31 75m south

I had to Google and read of the ordnance survey coordinate system description here (https://www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/resources/maps-and-geographic-resources/calculating-distances-using-grid-references.html) and here (https://www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/resources/maps-and-geographic-resources/the-national-grid.html) to do that and then was a little confused as the northing contains 7 digits which due to just reading what I had, believed meant it had a precision of 10cm. I'm assuming the extra digit is kilometres north of the origin? So 6044 kilometres north, Is that correct?

Edit: I get it, it's because I'm in satellite view. I'm getting global Cartesian coordinates (https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Easting_and_northing) instead of national grid.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 23:59:53, 11/04/19
I just used the GoogleEarth ruler to measure the distance. You should be able to make out the path in GE where it leaves the Gill and where it hits the Roman road.  I make them about NY 45429 17167 and NY 45560 17214
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 16:28:04, 13/04/19
This time the walk was a success. The only challenging bit was the second half of the path by Groove Gill. I sat down for 4 rest breaks on the way past for about a minute each as it was hard on my legs. Rest of the walk was easy. Pleasant stroll took me 5 and a half hours for an average speed of 1.5 miles an hour (although I probably spent 20 minutes sitting down including lunch) .
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 17:27:24, 13/04/19
Special thanks to richardh1905 for starting the route, forgotmyoldpassword for finishing it and ninthace for verifying it and touching it up.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: taxino8 on 18:17:56, 13/04/19
Well done Rob.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: richardh1905 on 18:24:27, 13/04/19

A pleasure, Rob; and congratulations for completing it - Groove Gill does look like a steep way up.


Any photos?
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 18:25:25, 13/04/19
Well done mate - on to bigger and better!
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 18:31:33, 13/04/19
A pleasure, Rob; and congratulations for completing it - Groove Gill does look like a steep way up.


Any photos?


31 I think, I'll put them on my flickr and put my favourite one on best photo of the day. I'll post again when uploaded.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Ridge on 18:44:27, 13/04/19
Well done Rob  O0
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 18:59:16, 13/04/19
Any photos?

I was going to wait until I got home to upload the photos to my Flickr as the 4G is slow where I am but I went ahead and did it.

Photos from both Wednesday's aborted attempt and today's more successful one are here (https://www.flickr.com/photos/142831277@N07/albums/72157707878202585).
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 19:00:13, 13/04/19
Thanks taxino8 ninthace and Ridge  :)
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Bigfoot_Mike on 19:09:57, 13/04/19
Looks like a good day Rob.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: forgotmyoldpassword on 21:34:46, 13/04/19
This time the walk was a success. The only challenging bit was the second half of the path by Groove Gill. I sat down for 4 rest breaks on the way past for about a minute each as it was hard on my legs. Rest of the walk was easy. Pleasant stroll took me 5 and a half hours for an average speed of 1.5 miles an hour (although I probably spent 20 minutes sitting down including lunch) .


Awesome to hear.  Funny thing is I was out on Steel Knots today and got some shots of the Groove Gill route so I could post later and say 'see, it ain't that hard, go back and you'll fly up in no time!'  :)  Turns out you had already dug in and went for it!  Well done getting back out and hope you enjoyed the views today, should have had a decent one of the snow-capped Cross Fell to your north and no doubt the boat ride back helped too  O0
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 21:56:20, 13/04/19
Well done getting back out and hope you enjoyed the views today, should have had a decent one of the snow-capped Cross Fell to your north and no doubt the boat ride back helped too  O0

I don't remember seeing a fell with snow on it. :( I like snow capped peaks too. Most of my shots look like hill, the camera doesn't capture what I see with my eyes, although I got a nice shot of Ullswater from NY4654521312, I stuck it in the My best pic of the day (http://www.walkingforum.co.uk/index.php?topic=13385.4005) thread.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Bigfoot_Mike on 23:33:53, 13/04/19
....the camera doesn't capture what I see with my eyes...


Your brain also doesn’t capture what you see with you eyes, otherwise everything would be upside down. The brain is a great image processor, with built in automatic white balance and auto exposure, plus the ability to create huge depth of field from creating a composite. It takes a lot of effort to replicate what you can see with a camera.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 03:42:18, 14/04/19
It takes a lot of effort to replicate what you can see with a camera.

The main difference I don't like is I see more of what's in the distance, the "zoom" is different. The phone camers fills the picture with the nearer hill where as more of what I see is filled with what's going on in the distance. I might be wrong but I think I need a different lens to fix that?
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Bigfoot_Mike on 07:30:01, 14/04/19
Rob, there are a number of factors in the physical differences between what you and the camera see. First the lens focal length affects angle of view. Shorter focal lengths (e.g. phone camera) have a wider view. This also tends to make closer items dominate the scene. Telephophoto lenses compress the depth of a photo. The depth of field (how much is in focus) depends upon several factors, including focal length, aperture and distance to main subject. The hyper focal distance is the point at which maximum depth of field is achieved for a given lens. You can find many articles online regarding depth of field / focus and hyperfocal distance. Finally, how we perceive reality is quite complicated - see link below.


PS equivalent focal length to human vision is about 43mm on full frame or 28mm on crop DSLR



https://www.cambridgeincolour.com/tutorials/cameras-vs-human-eye.htm (https://www.cambridgeincolour.com/tutorials/cameras-vs-human-eye.htm)
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: richardh1905 on 08:23:28, 14/04/19
Looks as if you enjoyed a glorious day, Rob.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Ridge on 08:56:33, 14/04/19
the camera doesn't capture what I see with my eyes,
Lots of knowledgeable stuff about cameras etc. above but however good the picture it just doesn't fill your sight the way it does in reality and doesn't touch your other senses. Further up this thread Rob asked about hills with the best views and I chickened out of answering, I know hills I've liked more than others but was that the view, the company, the lack of other people, the ease or not of route finding, the weather, how tired I was (and that can be a good or bad thing), how my life is going generally.
Photos, both mine and other peoples, can bring back those memories but they can't replicate them on screen.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 09:08:14, 14/04/19
Thanks Bigfoot_Mike. I might experiment with a proper camera at some point. The phone camera is very convenient and not an additional expense so we will see.

I see Ridge, fair enough. I'm rather fond of good photographs for their own sake even if they're not the same as reality.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Bigfoot_Mike on 10:07:20, 14/04/19
Thanks Bigfoot_Mike. I might experiment with a proper camera at some point. The phone camera is very convenient and not an additional expense so we will see.

I see Ridge, fair enough. I'm rather fond of good photographs for their own sake even if they're not the same as reality.


Ridge is right. A photo can not replicate the emotions experienced from being there (and getting there). Our brains trick us into seeing what we want to see to some degree. A lovely bright sunny day can be good for the view, but make for mediocre photos.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: richardh1905 on 11:22:01, 14/04/19
Why not write a trip report for your walk that includes photos, Rob? The narrative adds to the photos, and the photos add to the narrative. Also, you can throw in a map, just to set the scene.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 12:09:29, 14/04/19
Why not write a trip report for your walk that includes photos, Rob? The narrative adds to the photos, and the photos ardd to the narrative. Also, you can throw in a map, just to set the scene.

I might have a crack at it next walk, I didn't take any photos of Groove Gill and that was the toughest bit or the remains of the roman road or other "stages" like the Ullswater way. Will probably have to make a few notes as I walk. If I do, I'll stick them in a different thread out of consideration to ninthace and others who wouldn't want big entries here.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: pdstsp on 12:47:00, 14/04/19
Glad you enjoyed the walk Rob, but a warning - it's addictive  O0
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 15:38:59, 14/04/19
Black Crag from Tarn hows is another straightforward one with splendid all round views. Also, while we're in that area: Holme fell?

Black Crag looks easy and I found a route here (http://www.gps-routes.co.uk/routes/home.nsf/RoutesLinksWalks/black-crag-walking-route). Holme fell looks a little more strenuous (route here (http://www.gps-routes.co.uk/routes/home.nsf/RoutesLinksWalks/holme-fell-walking-route)). If I combined them I'd have a reasonable walk although the descent back down Holme fell might be hard on the knees after all that walking. It's also a 100 mile drive so £16-17 in petrol. Maybe my next walk? Thoughts? Does my experience with Loadpot Hill give anyone ideas of where I should go next?
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Mel on 15:42:21, 14/04/19
Trip reports don't have to be all factual and serious.  You could write about how you felt doing the walk, which bits you found particularly tough/easy.  That magical moment when a deer runs in front of you too quickly for the camera.  That sort of thing.  Make it a personal account of YOUR walk. 







Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 15:52:13, 14/04/19
Trip reports don't have to be all factual and serious.  You could write about how you felt doing the walk, which bits you found particularly tough/easy.  That magical moment when a deer runs in front of you too quickly for the camera.  That sort of thing.  Make it a personal account of YOUR walk.


If I have a crack at it then it will be. I would want to include all the stages though without rambling on forever about stuff people already know/can find out better elsewhere. I'm warming to the idea.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: richardh1905 on 17:06:32, 14/04/19

If I have a crack at it then it will be. I would want to include all the stages though without rambling on forever about stuff people already know/can find out better elsewhere. I'm warming to the idea.




I find writing a Trip Report helps me remember a walk far better than photos on their own. And if others get some pleasure, inspiration of useful information from it then all the better!


I do keep a diary too, for jotting down rough notes, but hardly in a form that others would be interested in.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 21:53:59, 14/04/19
Here (https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Gc9Pym4-ePsG0cgE7QFxWkCwLNMUyC-5/view?usp=drivesdk) is the route I've planned for Holme Fell. Look good or did I walk into a dead end at NY 31567 00674? I could plot the slightly longer obvious route nearby but this route (which exists on OpenCycleMap) seemed like better practice.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 22:25:32, 14/04/19
Here (https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Gc9Pym4-ePsG0cgE7QFxWkCwLNMUyC-5/view?usp=drivesdk) is the route I've planned for Holme Fell. Look good or did I walk into a dead end at NY 31567 00674? I could plot the slightly longer obvious route nearby but this route (which exists on OpenCycleMap) seemed like better practice.


I would go up via Yew Tree Farm, avoids walk on A road and crossing from permissive path PROW by Yew Tree Tarn.  Should not be a field boundary problem if you do but not sure.  Easier climb and navigation from the farm too.  I would go up behind the crag line rather than try to climb through it,
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 22:56:06, 14/04/19
I would go up via Yew Tree Farm, avoids walk on A road and crossing from permissive path PROW by Yew Tree Tarn.

Do you mean the path that starts at SD 32000 99815?

Should not be a field boundary problem if you do but not sure.  Easier climb and navigation from the farm too.  I would go up behind the crag line rather than try to climb through it,

What's the crag line? The co-ordinates I posted asking if there's a path there? It looks like it crosses a crag right?
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Mel on 23:09:01, 14/04/19
I think he means circle round the base of them before heading up rather than the more difficult straight up through the middle of them (which might involve scrambling).


Sometimes a path on a map can indicate there is A route to the top rather than that IS the route to the top.  And hey, if it's open access land you pick the route to the top that's easiest and safest for you.



Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 23:10:58, 14/04/19
I think he means circle round the base of them before heading up rather than the more difficult straight up through the middle of them (which might involve scrambling).

Sometimes a path on a map can indicate there is A route to the top rather than that IS the route to the top.  And hey, if it's open access land you pick the route to the top that's easiest and safest for you.

Thanks. I've updated the route. Think it looks good now?
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Mel on 23:20:57, 14/04/19
I don't know the fell and can't see the route you've plotted.  Just be mindful when you get there that the path on the ground may not be exactly where you plotted it rather than struggling to follow or get back to your plotted route.  Maybe use it as a guide rather than a definitive route.


Its stuff like this where being able to read a map and relate it to the terrain comes in useful  O0



Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 23:33:20, 14/04/19
I don't know the fell and can't see the route you've plotted.

Stuck it in a gpx file here (https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Gc9Pym4-ePsG0cgE7QFxWkCwLNMUyC-5/view?usp=drivesdk).

Just be mindful when you get there that the path on the ground may not be exactly where you plotted it rather than struggling to follow or get back to your plotted route.  Maybe use it as a guide rather than a definitive route.

Its stuff like this where being able to read a map and relate it to the terrain comes in useful  O0

I plotted it using a combination of satellite and OpenCycleMap should be pretty spot on but I will be aware I might need to deviate.

As for the map reading, I'll take your word for it, I'll have ViewRanger with maps and satellite images should be enough for now.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Mel on 23:37:42, 14/04/19
Stuck it in a gpx file here (https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Gc9Pym4-ePsG0cgE7QFxWkCwLNMUyC-5/view?usp=drivesdk).



It's asking me to download an app to view it  :-\   :(
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 23:40:45, 14/04/19

It's asking me to download an app to view it  :-\   :(


Oh you don't have any route app on your PC / phone then I presume? I'd open it with ViewRanger on my phone but you might not want to. I don't know where to put it on the web to give a good view of it, most sites I know just put it on Google maps. I'll look around.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 23:41:54, 14/04/19
Do you mean the path that starts at SD 32000 99815?

What's the crag line? The co-ordinates I posted asking if there's a path there? It looks like it crosses a crag right?


Yes


If you look closely at the Standard map in OS it is clearer to see there are intermittent rocky lumps roughly  from NY 31562 00787 to NY 31480 00480.   If you look at your proposed route on Google Earth you can see there are indeed a routes through this line.  There is one halfway between WP0040 and WP26028 crossing almost at right angles and another path halfway between WP26028 and WP26029 - which I presume is your intended line. However, you will notice the contours are close together at both crossings as you would expect crossing a broken crag line.  So your route is feasible but there are other options.  If you look at your proposed route in ViewRanger using ViewRanger Landscape the crag line is more obvious.
Now stay with VR and look just to the west of the crag line and you will see a path running S to N from the summit to meet another path heading E to join your route round the N end of the crag line.  This is an alternative.
As you can see from GE, the top is criss-crossed with paths, so provided you keep going up you will get there!


Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 23:43:23, 14/04/19

It's asking me to download an app to view it  :-\   :(
  You can view it in GoogleEarth or ViewRanger if you do not have the OS app.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 00:04:57, 15/04/19
Thanks ninthace that was useful, I didn't think to look at the contour lines.

I don't know what your WPxxxx notation is, presuming it's how the PC Google Earth app has labelled the waypoints. Don't know how to translate that to ViewRanger which just uses a sequential number notation.

Anyway I updated the route to go past the farm and avoid the crag and replaced the old GPX file with it. After all this I guess Black Crag and Holme Fell are combined as my next walk. Long old drive though and I prefer circulars to retracing my steps as it's less interesting going back the way you came. But let's give this a go this week, weather permitting (haven't checked the forecast yet).
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 00:52:27, 15/04/19
Thanks ninthace that was useful, I didn't think to look at the contour lines.

I don't know what your WPxxxx notation is, presuming it's how the PC Google Earth app has labelled the waypoints. Don't know how to translate that to ViewRanger which just uses a sequential number notation.

Anyway I updated the route to go past the farm and avoid the crag and replaced the old GPX file with it. After all this I guess Black Crag and Holme Fell are combined as my next walk. Long old drive though and I prefer circulars to retracing my steps as it's less interesting going back the way you came. But let's give this a go this week, weather permitting (haven't checked the forecast yet).
  The one ending 29 is the summit waypoint, the one ending 28 is the penultimate waypoint and the one ending 40 is the one before that.  It is how they came up in GoogleEarth.  I have a trace for Black Crag from Tarn Hows but it does not include Holme Fell although you could merge it with the one you from Tarn Hows you have already found which would get you within spitting distance.  Enjoy.  When you get there can you tell me what is at NY 31530 00658 - it looks like a trig point in GE but there isn't one on the map - is it a cairn or a trick of the light?
Weather permitting I am off to tick off a bit more of the Two Moors Way tomorrow.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 00:59:15, 15/04/19
I have a trace for Black Crag from Tarn Hows but it does not include Holme Fell although you could merge it with the one you from Tarn Hows you have already found which would get you within spitting distance.
...
When you get there can you tell me what is at NY 31530 00658 - it looks like a trig point in GE but there isn't one on the map - is it a cairn or a trick of the light?
Weather permitting I am off to tick off a bit more of the Two Moors Way tomorrow.

Will check your trace out, downloaded a route which looked pretty good on the satellite imagery.

Will check out the mystery when I get there.

Hope you enjoy your walk. I'll Google the Two Moors Way tomorrow and have a nosey.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 21:18:25, 16/04/19
I changed my planned walk into a circular think this is good but put up the route I've plotted here (https://drive.google.com/file/d/1T1Fth1t1e-G7wiEob7cHm7lLsVFDO2pL/view?usp=drivesdk) for comments if anyone has any.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 21:30:50, 16/04/19
I changed my planned walk into a circular think this is good but put up the route I've plotted here (https://drive.google.com/file/d/1T1Fth1t1e-G7wiEob7cHm7lLsVFDO2pL/view?usp=drivesdk) for comments if anyone has any.
  Why have you retraced your route from Black Crag instead of following the path down to High Cross where your route crosses the main road?
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 21:42:22, 16/04/19
  Why have you retraced your route from Black Crag instead of following the path down to High Cross where your route crosses the main road?

Something's not right, took me a while to find High Cross as it's a good deal south of where I'm planning to park. I only retraced my steps for less than 2km? Can't see any other sane way back to the car park?
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 21:49:53, 16/04/19
Did the route come out like this? What am I missing here?

(http://i68.tinypic.com/161dea0.jpg)
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 21:50:29, 16/04/19
Something's not right, took me a while to find High Cross as it's a good deal south of where I'm planning to park. I only retraced my steps for less than 2km? Can't see any other sane way back to the car park?
  I miss remembered it slightly.  Leave Black Crag using the path in the Black Crag trace I pointed you at.  This actually crosses the main road at NY 32948 02238.  Cross the road and follow the lane to Low Oxen Fell and pick up your route at WP113.  See https://my.viewranger.com/route/details/MjA3MTIwMw== (https://my.viewranger.com/route/details/MjA3MTIwMw==)
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 22:02:16, 16/04/19
  I miss remembered it slightly.  Leave Black Crag using the path in the Black Crag trace I pointed you at.  This actually crosses the main road at NY 32948 02238.  Cross the road and follow the lane to Low Oxen Fell and pick up your route at WP113.  See https://my.viewranger.com/route/details/MjA3MTIwMw== (https://my.viewranger.com/route/details/MjA3MTIwMw==)

I actually chose that route after looking at a different one of your traces. I've already downloaded your Black Crag trace for free from haroldstreet.org.uk but I'll buy it on ViewRanger so you get your 33 credits. Altering this route is going to take a little while! Right, I'll give it a go.

Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 22:12:07, 16/04/19
I actually chose that route after looking at a different one of your traces. I've already downloaded your Black Crag trace for free from haroldstreet.org.uk but I'll buy it on ViewRanger so you get your 33 credits. Altering this route is going to take a little while! Right, I'll give it a go.


You are free to use the haroldstreet trace if you wish, I sent you the VR trace as it gives you access to VR free maps which would make the editing easier as you drag WPs about and I happened to be housekeeping my VR traces at the time. The paths I used show in the VR maps which would make dragging your WPs around easier.  You don't actually have to download my VR trace to do that.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 22:31:36, 16/04/19
Used your VR trace.

Revised route here (https://drive.google.com/file/d/1R8jI5ZpCxbszWVfJN9EEgO6Hgk7SM3-8/view?usp=drivesdk).
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 22:48:12, 16/04/19
Used your VR trace.

Revised route here (https://drive.google.com/file/d/1R8jI5ZpCxbszWVfJN9EEgO6Hgk7SM3-8/view?usp=drivesdk).
Route looks good, more aesthetically pleasing.  I hadn't actually looked to see which way round you are going.  Look at the elevation profile, the climbs are shallower going anticlockwise but that gives you an uphill finish - your call.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 22:54:07, 16/04/19
Route looks good, more aesthetically pleasing.  I hadn't actually looked to see which way round you are going.  Look at the elevation profile, the climbs are shallower going anticlockwise but that gives you an uphill finish - your call.

I think I'd prefer it clockwise get the hardest bit out of the way early and no uphill finish.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 22:57:42, 16/04/19
Now the only question is when am I going to do this? Tomorrow is my best day for it but my knees are still complaining from Saturday. With any luck they'll be OK tomorrow. Thanks again ninthace!
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 23:03:22, 16/04/19
Now the only question is when am I going to do this? Tomorrow is my best day for it but my knees are still complaining from Saturday. With any luck they'll be OK tomorrow. Thanks again ninthace!
  You're welcome let me know how it goes.  Give my regards to Hodge Close Quarru as you pass.  As a student, I spent happy times swimming round the bottom of it in my scuba days.  We are off tomorrow to do the 2MW circular we postponed from Monday.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 23:08:13, 16/04/19
  You're welcome let me know how it goes.  Give my regards to Hodge Close Quarru as you pass.  As a student, I spent happy times swimming round the bottom of it in my scuba days.  We are off tomorrow to do the 2MW circular we postponed from Monday.

I'll do that. Hope Mrs N sleeps better this time and the weather behaves.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 09:15:01, 17/04/19
My knees are very nearly better and I would have gone but I forgot to wash my walking clothes! They were still in my laundry bin. Fate decided not today. Nevermind, the weather's supposed to be nice all week. It will give that tiny niggle in my knees chance to heal.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Islandplodder on 09:44:26, 17/04/19

I find as I get older there's usually some bit of me that hurts a bit, and knees are always a weak spot. Doing stretches in the morning helps, and sometimes I find I can just walk through it as long as I take things steadily.  The thing that really stiffens me up is to stop for a few days.  And a long drive can be much worse than a long walk when it comes to what hurts next day.

Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 16:26:57, 17/04/19
I'll do that. Hope Mrs N sleeps better this time and the weather behaves.
It went well thanks.  Mrs N was on fire!  Walk done in 10 min short of 3hrs.
https://my.viewranger.com/route/details/MjMxMTc1OA== (https://my.viewranger.com/route/details/MjMxMTc1OA==)
http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=4099 (http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=4099)
https://osmaps.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/route/3236210/190417-Knowstone (https://osmaps.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/route/3236210/190417-Knowstone)
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 16:34:02, 17/04/19
It went well thanks.  Mrs N was on fire!  Walk done in 10 min short of 3hrs.
https://my.viewranger.com/route/details/MjMxMTc1OA== (https://my.viewranger.com/route/details/MjMxMTc1OA==)

Good stuff. I can only marvel at such speeds.

Didn't realise it was bank holiday weekend, there won't be anywhere to park I expect if I go on Friday - Monday so hopefully I get out there tomorrow! I twisted my left knee a bit earlier and caused it to hurt again but it's not too bad I expect I'll risk it and see what happens.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 16:38:37, 17/04/19
Good stuff. I can only marvel at such speeds.

Didn't realise it was bank holiday weekend, there won't be anywhere to park I expect if I go on Friday - Monday so hopefully I get out there tomorrow! I twisted my left knee a bit earlier and caused it to hurt again but it's not too bad I expect I'll risk it and see what happens.

Make an early start. In my experience a lot of the  grockles suffer from sticky-back.


Edited for spelling
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 16:50:01, 17/04/19

Make an early start. In my experience a lot of the  crockles suffer from sticky-back.

Not a turn of phrase either I or Google are familiar with. No early start for me I'm afraid, I'd like to get some more sleep this time although once I get going the tiredness seems to dissipate. Probably won't get there before 10! Wouldn't have thought the car park would be full on a Thursday? It looks quite large on satellite.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 16:58:26, 17/04/19
Not a turn of phrase either I or Google are familiar with. No early start for me I'm afraid, I'd like to get some more sleep this time although once I get going the tiredness seems to dissipate. Probably won't get there before 10! Wouldn't have thought the car park would be full on a Thursday? It looks quite large on satellite.
. The car park has a lot of migratory traffic as many folk turn up, gaze in wonderment and move on. IIRC the car park is marshalled too in busy periods.


Grockle - a holiday visitor characterised by slow driving and an inability to park. Sticky-back - an inability to separate back from mattress in the morning.
Sorry - spellcheck failure


If you want to miss the crowds try this one this weekend. Much closer to you. Not as strenuous as it looks. By the time you have got to the Nick you have broken the back of it.  Good pub too, or it used to be.http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=2753 (http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=2753)Good route to practice your navigation too
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 17:07:57, 17/04/19
If you want to miss the crowds try this one this weekend. Much closer to you. Not as strenuous as it looks. By the time you have got to the Nick you have broken the back of it.  Good pub too, or it used to be.

http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=2753

Good route to practice your navigation too

I estimate that route would take me the best part of 8 hours and longer if I'm practicing with the compass. I don't want most of my walks to take longer than 6. Will keep it in mind if I fancy an extended wander.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 17:21:16, 17/04/19
As well as being heavy I'm actually quite short at only 5'8" with short legs. My step rate is slightly slower than average and my steps are shorter than I see most people do. I've tried walking with longer strides but it feels all kinds of wrong and it's obvious would quickly fatigue the muscles. Not sure if being overweight shortens your stride length but I think it does, at 16 stone my walking speed motored past people in town.

Walking the hills might actually motivate me to lose weight, although I'm rather fond of my deep fat fryer, vinegarettes on my salad and high calorie savouries in general though I don't have the weakness for sweets many suffer with.

Would be nice to achieve ninthace speeds on the hill though. I'll have to think about it.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 17:42:49, 17/04/19
I estimate that route would take me the best part of 8 hours and longer if I'm practicing with the compass. I don't want most of my walks to take longer than 6. Will keep it in mind if I fancy an extended wander.


4km shorter and the top of the Pennines http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=1610
4km shorter with a navex http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=1646
Close to you and only 5 miles http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=1782
5 miler away from the crowds http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=1647
If you want a peach of a walk, length at your discretion, drive to Hilton (up by the Warcop Range) and walk up Scordale  Scordale is one of the best kept secrets of the North Pennines, parking is just beyond the top of the village.   Weekend is the ideal time to go as the range is inactive.
Also - have a look at the Howgills.
Then there is the other Borrowdale on the other side of the M6 from Tebay.

Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 17:46:52, 17/04/19
Thanks for those routes ninthace. I'm not too sure why I picked one so far away with plenty of good walks closer. These walks would make a change from the smaller wainwrights and Lake District viewpoints I've been visiting.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 17:55:58, 17/04/19
Thanks for those routes ninthace. I'm not too sure why I picked one so far away with plenty of good walks closer. These walks would make a change from the smaller wainwrights and Lake District viewpoints I've been visiting.
http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/map-area.php?user=ninthace (http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/map-area.php?user=ninthace)
Zoom into the area near you and you will see there are loads of walks outside the Lakes.  Sorry I cannot send you a zoomed link, unfortunately my walks are spread out a bit!  A lot of them are on ViewRanger already and all the UK ones are already on the OS website but there is no way I know of to filter out just mine - as a hint though, all mine start YYMMDD.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 15:25:26, 18/04/19
I'm currently at NY 33223 02318 taking a breather. I've been able to get phone signal on quite a lot of this route. Definitely could do with more nav skills, couldn't find the route I plotted at the top of Holme Fell and ended up going the route with the little scramble. Left my food in the car  >:( hungry work ahead...
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 16:19:20, 18/04/19
I'm currently at NY 33223 02318 taking a breather. I've been able to get phone signal on quite a lot of this route. Definitely could do with more nav skills, couldn't find the route I plotted at the top of Holme Fell and ended up going the route with the little scramble. Left my food in the car  >:( hungry work ahead...
  One climb left then mostly downhill.  Hope you have enough water.  Food in the car is likely runway behind you and sky above you, not much use.  Another lesson learned, keep going.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 18:18:46, 18/04/19
Made it back to the car 7 hours later. A few firsts, recorded my first trace and first time I had to navigate by map features and (ViewRanger) compass as the path I plotted nearing Black Crag wasn't a path but a boggy mess. I found this harder than Loadpot Hill, maybe it's the lack of sleep (I slept even less this time) or perhaps because there's more total ascent and descent (I think there is, haven't checked) but it wasn't too hard really although at one point I felt quite fatigued it wore off relatively quickly. Nothing challenging other than a couple of strenuous bits. Thanks everyone, especially Hillhiker1 for suggesting it and ninthace for your assistance.

Edit: I took 2.1 litres of water and used all but about 350ml of it.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 19:00:22, 18/04/19
Well done Rob.  That's a long time walking.  Hopefully it will speed up as you get fitter but might be a good idea to carry a head torch, especially if you start stopping for a brew!
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 20:04:59, 18/04/19
Well done Rob.  That's a long time walking.  Hopefully it will speed up as you get fitter but might be a good idea to carry a head torch, especially if you start stopping for a brew!

I only spent about 6 hours of it walking 1 hour was pausing for water, rest, chat to people, sit at top of summit, etc. The trace says 5 hour 32 minutes but I forgot to unpause it a couple of times.

Think I might get a better hydration system so I don't have to stop, take my pack off, faff about with the length of the hip belt so I can do it up again every time I want a swig of H2O.

I shared the trace if you're interested:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/15EBA61rnkGjtS9UrmHwyZERa2fc4SVbJ/view?usp=drivesdk
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 20:52:47, 18/04/19
See what you mean about finding your way on Holme Fell!  Otherwise looks like fairly competent navigation.  Sounds like you need a platypus. https://www.ultralightoutdoorgear.co.uk/equipment-c3/hydration-c34/hydration-systems-c36/2019-hoser-reservoir-p11108 Other systems are available.
I have an osprey 3 litre system.  I have also used a system that fitted a large plastic fizzy pop bottle that I slipped into my pack the right way up.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Hillhiker1 on 20:57:33, 18/04/19
Looks like a great route that Rob,I'll probably use that at some point. Hope you had a good day O0
Just noting your food 'challenge' I always have a couple of cycling energy gels in my rucksack for those days when the gets tough or I've not taken enough food in the first place. You may have found that kind of thing handy today. They're in no way a food substitute but they do give the energy you need to go on.  There are long life cereal bars you could tuck away too.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 21:02:15, 18/04/19
Good advice from Hillhiker.  I always have a few cereal bars in the lid pocket of my pack.  Some folk graze on a bag of trail mix in their pocket to keep their energy levels up.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Mel on 21:17:27, 18/04/19
I'm curious.... why did you pause your trip recording?  Surely doing that gives a less accurate reading of the whole of your time from start to finish?  The app will give you various speed stats without the need to pause (if that's why you're doing it).





Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 21:42:39, 18/04/19
I'm curious.... why did you pause your trip recording?

To give a more accurate reading of the pace when I'm moving. If I want my pace for the trip including pausing for a 15(?) minute chat at the top of Holme Fell I can use a calculator.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 21:49:22, 18/04/19
I'm scared of cows and I had to walk between a cow and her calf because they did this

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47585583852_b2525e72a6_z_d.jpg)

Prefer routes without cows!
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 21:50:25, 18/04/19
To give a more accurate reading of the pace when I'm moving. If I want my pace for the trip including pausing for a 15(?) minute chat at the top of Holme Fell I can use a calculator.
But VR gives you a speed v time graph and you can overlay it on the elevation profile so you can see the effect hills are having on you as well as your average speed over time,  For example, Mrs N sets off like a terrier after a rat but after a couple of hours she is more Labrador.
I thought you were shutting it off so your phone battery would last  :)
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 21:55:24, 18/04/19
Looks like a great route that Rob,I'll probably use that at some point. Hope you had a good day O0

It would have been better if a certain voice I hear hadn't been winding me up, "your phone's going to break", "you're going to get lost", "it's going to get dark" and various other things the whole time but it was still pleasant enough. Thanks chap. O0
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 21:57:25, 18/04/19
No it used less than 10% battery an hour recording a trip with the phone signal shut off. I won't pause it next time going on what Mel and ninthace are saying.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 16:03:06, 19/04/19
Sounds like you need a platypus.
Now own a platypus. O0 My backpack has a few little features to accommodate the platypus, handy.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Bigfoot_Mike on 17:37:55, 19/04/19
I'm scared of cows and I had to walk between a cow and her calf because they did this

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47585583852_b2525e72a6_z_d.jpg)

Prefer routes without cows!


I understand your concern Rob. Mrs. BFM and I walked to Slaggan Bay on Loch Ewe from near Achgarve. It is an interesting walk along an old track / road past an abandoned village (Slaggan) to a lovely beach - complete with cows. There are a number of small lochs on the way. We saw some Highland Cows on the hillside on the outward leg. On the return we came across 2 such cows and a bull on the track. Not wanting to squeeze between them, we had to cross a ditch and scramble up a bank onto the hillside to cross above them. This seemed to attract another couple of cows further up the hill. We managed to get around them and avoid the descending cows without incident. Perhaps we we being over cautious, but these were big beasts and had very long horns.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 17:44:54, 19/04/19
A bull chased me out of a field once though it didn't charge it wasn't walking either, it was running slower than a charge. Basically telling me to go away and off I popped. Haven't liked cows ever since. A heard of them have chased my sister several times but she has a dog that hangs around her ankles when cows run at them. Interesting note, cows kill more people than dogs in the UK, despite how many people have dogs.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 18:11:43, 19/04/19
Those cows are Belted Galloways, used a lot on poor or upland pasture.  I have never found them to be aggressive but with a calf you are wise to be careful.  Under the circumstances in your photo, I usually stop and give them a "cush" to let them know I am there and then hang back to let them sort themselves out before advancing slowly making friendly noises.  Usually, I am ignored by experts but there was one occasion on narrowish ledge track with a drop on one side I ended up shoving a cow to get it move out of the way.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 18:17:32, 19/04/19
I've read you're not supposed to walk between a cow and her calf, that it's a no no but I didn't have much choice. Luckily the cow didn't care.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 18:39:26, 19/04/19
I've read you're not supposed to walk between a cow and her calf, that it's a no no but I didn't have much choice. Luckily the cow didn't care.
  As I say - most times you are ignored by experts.  Coming off the North Pennines back of Cow Green I had to push my way through a mixture of cows and calves to get to the gate.  They didn't care, neither did the bull with them.  Not a course of action I would normally recommend but needs must.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 19:24:39, 19/04/19
As much as a reference for me as discussion here is a list of Wainwrights I've climbed so far:

Latrigg
Walla Crag
Hallin Fell
Gowbarrow Fell
Orrest Head
Castle Crag
Lord's Seat
Barf
High Rigg
Loadpot Hill
Arthur's Pike
Holme Fell
Black Fell

And here is a list of suggested fells so far in this thread I haven't done yet, one of these will probably be my next adventure:

Catbells
Wansfell Pike
Muncaster Fell
Loughrigg (round 2)
Harter Fell
Haystacks
Troutbeck Tongue (April says this one's interesting)
Silver How
Lingmoor Fell
Helm Crag
Gibson Knott
Calf Crag
Steel Fell
Bonscale Pike
Wether Hill
Steel Knotts
Sale Fell
Ling Fell
Binsey
Fell Barrow
Low Fell
Hardknott
Dodd
both Mell Fells
Selside Pike
Grike

I'm thinking Troutbeck Tongue as April says it's interesting but I can't see anywhere to park nearby. Where do you park?

Edit: According to this (https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/townend/trails/circular-walk-over-wansfell-from-troutbeck) there's parking at NY412026. I can't see it on satellite, just looks like Patterdale Road. Anything closer?
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Mel on 19:37:36, 19/04/19
Wansfell (Pike and Baystones) is a nice fell to walk.  About 6.5 miles if you start from Troutbeck village (roadside parking near church).  Steep but safe.


If you want to grab a cuppa and read about my Wansfell adventure click on THIS LINK (https://snailspacewalks.blogspot.com/2018/05/lake-district-long-weekend-camping.html)


(I don't recommend you follow my VR track though).
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Hillhiker1 on 19:42:54, 19/04/19
There's a few spaces at NY 41212 02698. There's also a few laybys here and there along the A592 after Troutbeck towards the Kirkstone pass
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 20:13:20, 19/04/19
Thanks Hillhiker1. On satellite it looks like there's space for maybe 1 car so I'll have to take your word for it there's parking there.

I read your trip report Mel, I can see why you suggested I don't use your track! Lovely view of Windermere.

Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Hillhiker1 on 20:27:32, 19/04/19
Image from Google earth. Hopefully you should be able to see this..


https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@54.4162906,-2.9074602,3a,75y,228.82h,85.84t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1s132qEW6Lp5bpFG-yHC1-ew!2e0!7i13312!8i6656 (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@54.4162906,-2.9074602,3a,75y,228.82h,85.84t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1s132qEW6Lp5bpFG-yHC1-ew!2e0!7i13312!8i6656)

Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 20:38:10, 19/04/19
Image from Google earth. Hopefully you should be able to see this..

Thanks. Yes that shows up in the Google Maps app here. I'm not sure if I'll do this walk next as there's quite a lot of walking to get to and from the hill I've no idea of how aesthetically pleasing that walk is. Anyone who's familiar with the walk got an opinion?

Edit: I found pictures in trip reports on here but I found more of the route pictures  here (http://www.wainwrightroutes.co.uk/troutbecktongue_r1.htm).
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 00:09:09, 20/04/19
I'm not sure about Troutbeck Tongue, I downloaded the route from walklakes but I can't see a path on satellite. On my last outing I ended up traipsing through bog because there wasn't a clear path and I had to find where the field boundaries meet point my phone so the compass was roughly in line with it (by which I mean the direction matched) and walk. Good practice for navigating perhaps but Troutbeck Tongue is quite a long walk I'd have to get up early in case I end up following paths on the ground the wrong way like I did on Holme Fell. I'll think about it.

Maybe I should do Catbells next? I've been avoiding it because of the scramble (and a little bit because it looks a little bit exposed on top and I'm scared of heights) but looking on the map the only place the contour lines are close together are at NY2443219960 so I'm thinking this is a short scramble? There was a short scramble on the Holme Fell way I went I managed OK. Is that the case?

Forgotmyoldpassword says I can avoid it by going along a tourist trail to the west but I don't see any path to the west. Anybody got the coordinates so I can see where you turn off?

Edit: I just realised he meant do the whole West path not just a path that avoids the scramble.

I was looking at the route available here (https://www.mudandroutes.com/routes/walk-catbells-hawes-end-derwentwater/) for a trace.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 00:27:52, 20/04/19
https://youtu.be/MtdKzGF_5qM (https://youtu.be/MtdKzGF_5qM)
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 00:33:20, 20/04/19
https://youtu.be/MtdKzGF_5qM (https://youtu.be/MtdKzGF_5qM)

Is the bit at 2:08 the scramble people were talking about? The one near the summit?
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 00:39:04, 20/04/19
Is the bit at 2:08 the scramble people were talking about? The one near the summit?
Probably, never been up that way. Have a look at https://youtu.be/7-DTsPfx2rw (https://youtu.be/7-DTsPfx2rw) for a more detailed commentary with route advice. Did you solve your Harvey problem?
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 00:51:29, 20/04/19
Probably, never been up that way. Have a look at https://youtu.be/7-DTsPfx2rw (https://youtu.be/7-DTsPfx2rw) for a more detailed commentary with route advice. Did you solve your Harvey problem?

No I didn't solve the Harvey problem, I've emailed ViewRanger support.

If the scramble at 7:17 in the video you just posted is anything to go by I'll be fine. I'll probably regret being cocky about it but the scramble on Holme Fell albeit short was vertical Catbells looks easier. I'll watch the whole video soon in case there's a harder scramble.

I must say jumping through the video Catbells looks more fun than difficult or scary.

Edit: I knew I'd regret being cocky, I'm not sure about the summit. Could always go up there and see what it looks like in the flesh I suppose. Probably rather go up there than go back down the scrambly bits so I'd likely push on. Hmm.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 01:46:33, 20/04/19
OK so I've now watched the whole thing and I'm definitely already regretting being cocky about it. There is a bit of exposure though the kind that would scare rather than terrify me. I'm not sure I would be as good at finding the best route up to the summit and might end up making it needlessly difficult. I'd also have liked to see the descent, that's often harder than the ascent. It doesn't look particularly strenuous. I think I'd find Catbells scary but possibly of an amount that is perversely pleasurable. Not convinced but definitely maybe.

I also skipped through this video:

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=A2nsiFZ9z78

Where I can see the summit scramble people talk about (I think). Wish I could have seen them do the whole thing but there's nice big places to put your feet from what I saw, it would be exciting I think.

I've now gone through every Google hit for Catbells scramble. Still don't have a clear picture in my head as there were a variety of photos. I watched the guy in ninthace's video do it but in a way we were too close to the action.

I think I will do Catbells after all. Not sure I want to make it my next fell though as I'd like to play with my new stove.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 10:44:55, 20/04/19
OK so with Catbells on the soon list I want somewhere I can play with my stove for my next walk. I added all the fells I haven’t done yet as points of interest to ViewRanger so I can see which fells are closest to Appleby and Little Mell looks a little bit too easy so I looked at Great Mell Fell which looks like it has a good path up and is relatively flat on top which might give me somewhere good to play with my stove but there doesn't appear to be much shelter from the wind. Would a windshield be enough on a typical day?

Also where do you park near Great Mell Fell? According to Wainwright Routes  (http://www.wainwrightroutes.co.uk/greatmellfell_r1.htm) there is parking up a rough surfaced lane but I haven't located it on Satellite yet.

Edit: I think I found the rough surfaced lane at NY4074524676 by looking at a trace and the photograph but there doesn't seem to be much in the way of parking at the end of it.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Dread on 10:50:51, 20/04/19
(Slightly) off topic but has anyone been watching Second Chance Hiker on YouTube? 200 pounds overweight and walking the Pacific Crest Trail! At times he seems worryingly naive but his attitude is very inspiring.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 11:27:25, 20/04/19
(Slightly) off topic but has anyone been watching Second Chance Hiker on YouTube? 200 pounds overweight and walking the Pacific Crest Trail! At times he seems worryingly naive but his attitude is very inspiring.

I had a Google of him and watched one of his episodes. Good for him though I found the pace of the video (not his pace) a bit slow to want to watch more.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Hillhiker1 on 14:47:06, 20/04/19
I know the spot they're referring to for Great Mell fell parking. There's only room for one car and it's not a very good spot at that.
There's a bit more room at Little Mell fell, but it's a couple of miles between the 2 fells.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: archaeoroutes on 14:49:03, 20/04/19
Sorry if this has already been said (I've come late to this thread and haven't read all the pages yet)...
From Penrith, don't forget about going east. There's some lovely walks in the Northern Pennines (north of the A66) and also in the Howgills. Much of the Dales is also quicker to get to from there than the south-west Lakes and there are some stunning easy fells there. There's even the possibility of using the Settle-Carlisle railway as part of the transport solution!
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 15:13:19, 20/04/19
Thanks archaeoroutes good to know although I'm not sure where I'd get a list of easy fells for there from.

Hillhiker1 thanks too. I found the Little Mell Fell layby not sure of the route to Great Mell Fell from there think I'd have to wander round the edge of fields? Doesn't look like the most interesting walk. Maybe I'll go back to the drawing board for now.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Hillhiker1 on 15:35:31, 20/04/19
When I did them It was from Park brow by Gowbarrow Fell.  I remember Gowbarrow itself being pleasant enough, but looking at the map now now I reckon I probably walked on the road between the 2 mells.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: archaeoroutes on 15:47:10, 20/04/19
Thanks archaeoroutes good to know although I'm not sure where I'd get a list of easy fells for there from.
From Dent Station there is Great Knoutberry Hill. A round trip to include Arten Gill is well worth it for the waterfalls and other views.
Or follow the railway south to Ribblehead - a great walk through an impressive pass with great things to look at.


From Settle you could explore Langcliffe Scar. Lots of things to look at, especially the cave mouths


Once you've got a bit more confident, there's Penyghent from Horton in Ribblesdale. Some steep bits, but nothing desperate.
And of course Ingleborough. Perhaps explore the limestone pavements on the first trip and take a look at the way up. From Horton via Sulber Nick it's a steady plod uphill but with amazing things to see and a great sense of achievement.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: archaeoroutes on 15:55:30, 20/04/19
In the NE lakes, a couple spring to mind.


Hallin Fell is a lovely little thing, sitting overlooking Ullswater. Can also include Steel Knotts if you are feeling like a mini ridge (never too severe). Bus to Pooley Bridge then ferry to Howtown.


Loadpot Hill is it's bigger brother. From Pooley Bridge, head up onto Askham Fell and then follow the Roman Road as far as you want. It does eventually go over High Street, but that's a long walk until you've got a lot of miles under your belt. But Loadpot Hill is a satisfying place to turn around.


Much of this appears in https://my.viewranger.com/route/details/MTQ5MjA= (https://my.viewranger.com/route/details/MTQ5MjA=) - not trying to get you buy, but it should show you the map and a few pictures. The route traced assumes a car, but the bit from 4 to 8 is the Roman Road and HallinFell / Steel Knotts are off to the left.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: archaeoroutes on 16:01:21, 20/04/19
I think the bus also stops at the Kirkstone Pass Inn. Great place for an evening meal in the sun, but also a starting point for a walk up Stoney Cove Pike having got much of the ascent out of the way.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: richardh1905 on 16:13:25, 20/04/19
+1 for Pen y Ghent and Ingleborough. Some steep bits, mind you, but nothing desperate. Perhaps avoid the steep northern approach to Ingleborough from the Hill Inn.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 16:21:08, 20/04/19
Thanks archaeoroutes. I realise you probably don't want to read all 20 pages of this thread so I'll point out I have a car now so am no longer limited to public transport and I've done Hallin Fell and Loadpot Hill (and 11 other Wainwrights) list here (http://www.walkingforum.co.uk/index.php?topic=37298.msg544604#msg544604). Haven't done the others you recommended though.

Thanks Richard.

I must admit I was quite enjoying ticking off Wainwrights even if they're the easiest ones but I'll keep in mind walks outside the Lakes too.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 17:39:47, 20/04/19
Unless someone is of a mind to persuade me otherwise I think my next walk will be Silver How. It's about a third of the length of my last two walks but it won't hurt to take it easy this time. I thought about including Loughrigg in the walk as a circular but decided against it on the basis that while it was only 7 miles, there was 723 metres of ascent and I think I need a bit of a break before attempting that. I'll be going back to Loughrigg soon but this time is more about playing with the stove. It is rather short though, anyone got any ideas on what I could add to it?

In fact I think my next three walks will be:

Silver How
Catbells
Loughrigg

Here (https://drive.google.com/file/d/1oexLS7X8pHd3eE1SxP_1e9SUWQrWZeG-/view?usp=drivesdk) is my proposed Silver How route.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 17:53:32, 20/04/19
Rob, what’s the fascination with Lake District Fells?  You have Dufton Pike and Murton Fell on you doorstep.  If you want to try out the new stove, take it for a walk up Scordale as far as you can, make yourself a brew, walk back.  If the range is shut, Swindale off the side of Scordale is equally gorgeous and also has the odd mine to look at.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 18:00:29, 20/04/19
Rob, what’s the fascination with Lake District Fells?  You have Dufton Pike and Murton Fell on you doorstep.  If you want to try out the new stove, take it for a walk up Scordale as far as you can, make yourself a brew, walk back.  If the range is shut, Swindale off the side of Scordale is equally gorgeous and also has the odd mine to look at.

I don't know what the fascination is to be honest. Habit maybe. I'd just decided where I was going for the next three trips and now you suggest there's better choices. Hey ho. After all the planning I'm minded to do Catbells and Loughrigg after my next walk. I could be persuaded to sack Silver How off though. I'll investigate Scordale.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: archaeoroutes on 18:16:32, 20/04/19
Ah, sorry.
OK, so with a car...
Pike o'Blisco from the top of Wrynose Pass is pretty easy going. And stunning views along the Langdales. If feeling strong on the day you could readily extend to a round trip including Great Knott and Cold Pike.
I see Helm Crag and Gibson Knott are already on your todo list so I'll add a +1
Fleetwith Pike or Grey Knotts from Honister Pass.
There are lots of nice easy ones from Ennerdale, like Great Borne and Starling Dodd, maybe even Red Pike but that's easier from Buttermere.
Bleaberry Fell and High Seat from Derwentwater.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 18:32:06, 20/04/19
Thanks archaeoroutes. I'll add those to my list. I'll also investigate the Pennines fells. Don't see the harm in keep doing Lake District fells, I started them because I lived in Penrith and they were accessible by public transport but I've started now seems a bit of a shame to stop.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 18:33:57, 20/04/19
I don't know what the fascination is to be honest. Habit maybe. I'd just decided where I was going for the next three trips and now you suggest there's better choices. Hey ho. After all the planning I'm minded to do Catbells and Loughrigg after my next walk. I could be persuaded to sack Silver How off though. I'll investigate Scordale.
Tomorrow is a one of the guaranteed public access days and Scordale doesn’t need any planning. Park at the top of Hilton and just start walking up the valley.  The walk in is easy at first then it steepens as the track runs out. From there walk up by the beck until you come out at the top or turn back at any time. Swindale is a side valley off to the right as you go up. Again just walk up as far as you can.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Mel on 18:44:47, 20/04/19
Bleaberry Fell and High Seat would be great to do at the moment - the boggy bit between the two will be far easier to navigate due to this dry spell.


I did a variation of this walk last(?)  :-\  year (or mebby year before) when the heather was in bloom - beautiful  :)   


https://www.walkingwiththetaxidriver.co.uk/the-walks/cumbria/ashness-bridge-to-high-seat-and-bleaberry-fell-round/ (https://www.walkingwiththetaxidriver.co.uk/the-walks/cumbria/ashness-bridge-to-high-seat-and-bleaberry-fell-round/)




Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 18:48:38, 20/04/19
Tomorrow is a one of the guaranteed public access days and Scordale doesn’t need any planning.

My knees are too sore to do it tomorrow if they're this painful on the flat they'd really create on a slope. I could do it anyway but I wouldn't enjoy it and I'm sure there's a reason bodybuilders rest their muscles after a workout, if I keep pushing without healing I'll probably weaken my knees. Isn't that soreness small tears in the muscles?

I might make it my next trip. Not all my walks have to be in the Lakes (I've done Flakebridge and High Cup Nick locally) and I'll investigate these Pennines fells too, after I know a bit more about the Pennines I might select more fells from there.

Thanks Mel here's hoping my knees recover quickly. They took 4 or 5 days last time so this time will likely be similar.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Mel on 19:49:30, 20/04/19
About your knees Rob - can I suggest that you don't "rest" them.  Do a short, local, easy, gentle walk tomorrow.  Without a backpack.


I find it takes me longer to recover if I have total rest.


... just a thought/suggestion.



Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 19:54:00, 20/04/19
About your knees Rob - can I suggest that you don't "rest" them.  Do a short, local, easy, gentle walk tomorrow.  Without a backpack.


I find it takes me longer to recover if I have total rest.


... just a thought/suggestion.

They've not been at total rest I've been out shopping. You may be right about it taking longer if you have total rest I wouldn't know I continue to use them for everyday living. If in future I find I'm not doing anything I'll take them for a walk.

A backpack weight is neither here or there for me I barely notice it. Remember I'm already packing 76,000 grams of fat to lug around! A couple of thousand more is nothing.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Mel on 20:00:40, 20/04/19
But your knees are used to carrying you around all of the time.  They are not used to carrying you plus backpack around all of the time. 


Anyway, like I said, t'was just a suggestion (borne from experience)  :)







Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 20:26:10, 20/04/19
But your knees are used to carrying you around all of the time.  They are not used to carrying you plus backpack around all of the time. 

Anyway, like I said, t'was just a suggestion (borne from experience)  :)

My weight is quite fluid between a couple of stone so they sort-of are used to carrying varying loads.

Probably good advice. I doubt I'll walk them more than the mile it takes to walk into town and back again though.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 20:51:49, 20/04/19
Where's good to park in Hilton, Cumbria? I downloaded both of ninthace's traces from haroldstreet.org.uk mentioning Scordale, 1 was corrupt and the other started in someone's yard, I doubt they'd let me park there. Maybe ninthace knows them!

Edit: Nevermind there a car park of sorts in nearby Murton.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 21:15:15, 20/04/19
Where's good to park in Hilton, Cumbria? I downloaded both of ninthace's traces from haroldstreet.org.uk mentioning Scordale, 1 was corrupt and the other started in someone's yard, I doubt they'd let me park there. Maybe ninthace knows them!

Edit: Nevermind there a car park of sorts in nearby Murton.
This one starts at the car park http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=2586 (http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=2586). so does this one http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=1639 (http://www.haroldstreet.org.uk/routes/download/?walk=1639).
You don’t need to download them to see the start.
Edit to add:  the parking is just beyond the last house on the left.
Edited to further add.  If you look at in streetview you can see the parking area at the end of the yellow line up the road
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: richardh1905 on 21:26:11, 20/04/19
I must admit I was quite enjoying ticking off Wainwrights even if they're the easiest ones but I'll keep in mind walks outside the Lakes too.



I confess that I went through a 2000 footer peak bagging phase when I was younger, and I dipped my toe into the Munros, but I really can't be bothered with any of that now - I just like to get out into wild places wherever they are, irrespective of height or whether someone has listed them in a book. I got as much pleasure from exploring a remote valley in the Cairngorms (River Eidart and Upper Glen Feshie) as bagging the nearby peaks. Please don't take this as a criticism of Wainwright or Munro baggers - it is just not for me.


And I do like to visit other areas - one of the disadvantages of living in Orkney is the travel difficulties, so if I am 'Sooth' I'll grab whatever opportunity I can to get up into the hills. One side effect of the long distance travelling that I do is that I would think nothing of travelling from Cumbria to say Snowdonia for the weekend, or even the Southern Highlands. If my house move goes ahead as planned, that is exactly what I shall be doing soon! :)
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 21:33:00, 20/04/19
I have walked the North Pennines and the Howgills on days when the Lakes have been full of folk and often not seen another soul.  That's part of their appeal.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 21:59:36, 20/04/19
This one starts at the car park
...
Edit to add:  the parking is just beyond the last house on the left.
Edited to further add.  If you look at in streetview you can see the parking area at the end of the yellow line up the road

I can't see a yellow line but I think I see the parking at 54.5814948, -2.4107839.

This is much better now the walk to Scordale is only 2km (making for 4km of travel). Scordale Head looks like a good point to turn around unless I've misjudged it.

I'll check this out.


I confess that I went through a 2000 footer peak bagging phase when I was younger, and I dipped my toe into the Munros, but I really can't be bothered with any of that now - I just like to get out into wild places wherever they are, irrespective of height or whether someone has listed them in a book.

...

One side effect of the long distance travelling that I do is that I would think nothing of travelling from Cumbria to say Snowdonia for the weekend, or even the Southern Highlands. If my house move goes ahead as planned, that is exactly what I shall be doing soon! :)

I do like the challenge and achievement of a peak. That's not to say I don't like other kinds of walks, I do, but there's a sense of accomplishment associated with reaching a summit you don't get from exploring lowland areas.

Hope your move goes as planned. I still owe you a beer!

I have walked the North Pennines and the Howgills on days when the Lakes have been full of folk and often not seen another soul.  That's part of their appeal.

I used to like that about the areas I walked down south. You're right, there is an appeal to being remote.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 22:34:28, 20/04/19
I can't see a yellow line but I think I see the parking at 54.5814948, -2.4107839.



Yes the car park is at NY 73535 20763


The yellow line I refer to is the one you see running along the road in StreetView.  The Google car turned in the parking area.  It is a good track up to the hairpin under Dow Scar, NY 76254 22755.  From there the going gets rougher and involves a bit more route finding, the path comes and goes a bit but follow the beck.  If you manage to pop out at Scordale Head you will have done well.  Have a brew.  The first part of the valley is popular with dog walkers and you may meet the odd walker sneaking an illicit trip to Mickle Fell.


I think I have solved the reason why the trace is a bit out and appears to begin off the road in a front garden.  In 2012 VR only ran on Symbian phones and ate batteries so my phone was usually off.  My Garmin was an Etrex Summit which showed a trace but had no mapping.  It ate batteries too, so that was usually off as well.  In those days I plotted my traces retrospectively - you can tell by the lower number of waypoints.  I suspect the plot was done with a different datum to GoogleEarth.  My guess is one uses British National Grid and the other is WGS84, sussamb may know better.


Just found this in my files https://osmaps.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/route/1911337/160528-Scordale
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 22:59:30, 20/04/19

The yellow line I refer to is the one you see running along the road in StreetView. The Google car turned in the parking area. It is a good track up to the hairpin under Dow Scar, NY 76254 22755.  From there the going gets rougher and involves a bit more route finding, the path comes and goes a bit but follow the beck.  If you manage to pop out at Scordale Head you will have done well.  Have a brew.  The first part of the valley is popular with dog walkers and you may meet the odd walker sneaking an illicit trip to Mickle Fell.
.....
Just found this in my files https://osmaps.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/route/1911337/160528-Scordale

I thought you might mean the StreetView line but it's blue on the Android phone app.

Should be hard to get lost with the beck there.

Your route is interesting in that it ascends half way up the fell earlier than the route I've plotted. I did think about attempting to climb the fell there but I wasn't sure if there was a path and decided to plot a route following your haroldstreet.org.uk trace instead.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 23:09:12, 20/04/19
I should ask how will I know if they're firing up there? Someone told me it's supposed to be when the red flags are out (where do they put the red flags?) but at High Cup Nick there were red flags out when I visited and I was told they're always there and nobody shot me.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 23:24:22, 20/04/19
I thought you might mean the StreetView line but it's blue on the Android phone app.

Should be hard to get lost with the beck there.

Your route is interesting in that it ascends half way up the fell earlier than the route I've plotted. I did think about attempting to climb the fell there but I wasn't sure if there was a path and decided to plot a route following your haroldstreet.org.uk trace instead.
  Not sure what you mean by ascending the fell, the whole thing is a valley walk unless you are planning Murton Fell too!  The Warcop Range Trace was recorded live in 2015 using my current Garmin so it is good gen but it comes into Scordale from Swindale.  Walking up to foot of Swindale from Hilton is easy as there is good track.  The trace continues all the way up to Scordale Head before it climbs up onto Murton Fell.  Going up onto Murton Fell may be a step to far for you at present, probably better to follow the beck back down.  The up and back used to be a milk run for Mrs N and me.


The range is divided into areas, some for live firing - mortars, grenades, tanks and such.  The area behind as far as Mickle Fell is the overshoot.  Scordale is on the very left hand edge of this area.  Murton Fell across to High Cup Nick are used for soldiers running around, no bullets.  The red flag is at the entrance to the range in Hilton.  Sundays are usually good days and there are guaranteed access days too, published on the web.  Range activity times are also published on parish noticeboards, we had one in Brough near the shop - there will be one in Appleby, probably by the Tourist Office in the town centre.  If you are unsure, the lady in the Range Office was always helpful - she sorted out my legal walk up Mickle Fell.  More information and phone numbers here http://www.murton.org.uk/warcop-range-information/4594028687 (http://www.murton.org.uk/warcop-range-information/4594028687)


PS forgot to answer the flag at High Cup Nick.  The Nick and the PW are not in the range.  The red flag is for info if you thinking of entering the range which is S of Maize Beck and the top of Murton Fell- the edge is marked by big signs at intervals.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 23:38:44, 20/04/19
I had plotted a route up Murton Fell all save the easy looking last kilometer as I thought it would take too long. Total ascent isn't too much although it's quite steep looking. What do you think is too much about it navigation or how strenuous it is? Technicality? Something else? I'm sure I'll follow your advice and go back down the beck but if I get there early after a good nights sleep and it's there in front of me who knows what I'll do! No you're right I'm sure, coming down that must be a nightmare. I'd have to go another way.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: richardh1905 on 23:45:05, 20/04/19
I have walked the North Pennines and the Howgills on days when the Lakes have been full of folk and often not seen another soul.  That's part of their appeal.



The Howgills are lovely hills. And the Northern Pennines are just so vast.
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: ninthace on 00:01:53, 21/04/19
I had plotted a route up Murton Fell all save the easy looking last kilometer as I thought it would take too long. Total ascent isn't too much although it's quite steep looking. What do you think is too much about it navigation or how strenuous it is?
  Both.  For you it is a long way and the route from Scordale Head is not all obvious, the climb actually starts as you leave the track below Dow Crag and is 300m in one go.  Remember your last trip took 7hrs to do what most people would regard as a 3 hr trip.  The paths and tracks such as they are, are vague and made by sheep farmers on quads who are not necessarily going your way.  When I went up it it was fairly boggy and peaty too, look at all the little blue pools on the top which is fairly flat and featureless.  I ended up off my intended route avoiding the more awkward bits.  The fell itself, IIRC, is a whaleback which means you cannot see much of your route at any one time so you will in all probability be running off you gps.  Once you are up there though, and have crossed the top, there is a good track down to Murton at NY 74549 23679
Title: Re: Request for easy Lakedistrict fells for very overweight hiker
Post by: Rob Goes Walking on 00:17:52, 21/04/19
Good info. I'll probably give it a miss. The longer trip I did the week before only took 5 and a half hours though. I could have spent less time stopped, when I rest my legs I really only need a minute but I took more on several occasions, couldn't find the way on Holme Fell, stopped for a chat, stopped to help some people who were a bit lost, stopped many times just for water. Not every trip of that length will take that long. But discretion is the better part of valour or so some say, not sure I agree but I'll choose cowardice on this occasion not least because I really don't like bog.