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Main Boards => Long Distance Walks => Topic started by: KathyDahm on 21:19:18, 25/01/18

Title: American walking the C2C
Post by: KathyDahm on 21:19:18, 25/01/18
Hi, I'm planning to walk the C2C in September of this year (2018), and have some concerns. One is about money. If ATM machines are few and far between, and if, as I've read, some won't accept foreign credit cards, what does a non-British citizen do about obtaining money? It sounds as though it might be necessary to travel with a good deal of cash, and I wonder how safe that is. I won't have a checkbook for a British bank, and I doubt that checks from an American bank would be accepted. Because my plan is to go at a fairly slow pace, logging around 10 to 12 miles a day, it will be a lengthy time frame. Any suggestions or experience in this matter? I'm a 75-year-old woman, and I'll be walking solo.


Then too, I'm wondering if many walkers choose a poncho for rain gear. I've walked the Camino Frances in northern Spain (500 miles) and the Camino Portuguese, from Porto to Santiago, and both times used a Ferrino poncho, much like the Altus, and liked it very much. It has arms, is rather long, and has a rear section to cover a backpack. But in the books I've read on the C2C, rain gear never mentions a poncho. I wonder if there's some reason for that that I'm not seeing.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: sussamb on 22:24:29, 25/01/18
Ponchos aren't popular in UK but some members here use them and wouldn't be without them so I wouldn't worry.  As for ATM's, you should be fine in the towns along the way but some of the small villages may not have any.  Sites like this should help you plan better based on your itinerary and likely spend

https://www.link.co.uk/consumers/locator/
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: jimbob on 23:26:50, 25/01/18
Ponchos are certainly OK by me. However they can be a pain if caught in windy conditions which we tend to have frequently in the UK. Does the Ferrino button down the front like an Altus, if so then you will have no problems. If not then be prepared to tie the poncho down lower than your rucksack or your walk may turn into a paragliding  experience.  :) .

Either way have fun. Oh and make sure your card has a 4 digit pin. Oh and know your pin by number as most UK ATMS are no longer alphabetical.

Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: KathyDahm on 01:38:50, 26/01/18
Ponchos aren't popular in UK but some members here use them and wouldn't be without them so I wouldn't worry.  As for ATM's, you should be fine in the towns along the way but some of the small villages may not have any.  Sites like this should help you plan better based on your itinerary and likely spend



Thanks so much for the suggestion.

Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: KathyDahm on 01:44:17, 26/01/18
Ponchos are certainly OK by me. However they can be a pain if caught in windy conditions which we tend to have frequently in the UK. Does the Ferrino button down the front like an Altus, if so then you will have no problems. If not then be prepared to tie the poncho down lower than your rucksack or your walk may turn into a paragliding  experience.  :) .

Either way have fun. Oh and make sure your card has a 4 digit pin. Oh and know your pin by number as most UK ATMS are no longer alphabetical.


The Ferrino has a zipper as well as a velcro fastener in front. No way to get caught in the wind. I get that problem. My card (from Charles Schwab, because they don't charge an extra fee for international transactions) does have a four-digit numerical pin, which I know by heart. :)  The only problem with the Ferrino, which I have in red, is that my little granddaughter says, "Grammy looks like a red tent." But it works to keep out the rain, and I guess, if I can't find a place to stay, I could use it as a tent? Maybe not.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: ninthace on 08:10:18, 26/01/18
Post offices can also be used to get cash using a card. Also shops, especially supermarkets, can offer cash back when making a card purchase. I have even known some pubs to offer this service. Kirkby Stephen, which is about halfway, has an ATM at the Co-op store and there was one still a bank there 18 months ago, but there was talk of it closing. There are also two outdoor pursuits shops there for resupply of hiking bits.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: gunwharfman on 10:16:53, 26/01/18
As already said I don't think you will have problems, I have downloaded an app which shows me where all the ATM's are located, havn't needed to use it but its on my phone if needed. As regard shops, its my experience that most small towns and other places have a Co-Op shop, they always seem to have an ATM just inside the entrance. I also believe that most or all ATM's are now free to use, a few years ago some private companies tried to charge a small fee (mostly in pubs I think and shops that are individually owned) for getting money out but I think that practice has now died out?

I use a poncho made by Vaude and I find it very usefull. I did use the section that went over the rucksack but I don't bother now, I just keep my rucksack coverered with a normal rain cover. I've never experienced the 'wind problem'. If I needed to control the poncho in such a situation I'd just attempt to fix it by securing my belt on the outside. My Vaude however has a neat little solution already built in, a 3" x 1/2" press stud strap that holds the front and rear bottom edges together, thats all I've had to use so far.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: Rather be walking on 12:24:52, 26/01/18
Quote
I've never experienced the 'wind problem'
Made me chuckle  ;)


One thing we noticed that most village shops seemed on closed on a Mondays.
And there're no pies for sale in Cleator on Mondays I can confirm. :)

Here's a link to the rambling man, good TR.
https://ramblingman.org.uk/walks/coasttocoast/coast_to_coast_day_1 (https://ramblingman.org.uk/walks/coasttocoast/coast_to_coast_day_1)

Jon.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: KathyDahm on 16:26:17, 26/01/18
Post offices can also be used to get cash using a card. Also shops, especially supermarkets, can offer cash back when making a card purchase. I have even known some pubs to offer this service. Kirkby Stephen, which is about halfway, has an ATM at the Co-op store and there was one still a bank there 18 months ago, but there was talk of it closing. There are also two outdoor pursuits shops there for resupply of hiking bits.


This is so good to know. Many thanks!
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: KathyDahm on 16:30:47, 26/01/18
Made me chuckle  ;)


One thing we noticed that most village shops seemed on closed on a Mondays.
And there're no pies for sale in Cleator on Mondays I can confirm. :)

Here's a link to the rambling man, good TR.
https://ramblingman.org.uk/walks/coasttocoast/coast_to_coast_day_1 (https://ramblingman.org.uk/walks/coasttocoast/coast_to_coast_day_1)

Jon.


Thanks so much for the link to the Rambling Man book. I wish I could get it as an eBook (Kindle) but that only works for British Amazon users. But I can read it via the link. I love the first day account! I'll remember, no pies in Cleator. :)  My own days will be shorter than his, I'm sure. I'll probably stop in Cleator the first day.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: KathyDahm on 16:34:31, 26/01/18
As already said I don't think you will have problems, I have downloaded an app which shows me where all the ATM's are located, havn't needed to use it but its on my phone if needed. As regard shops, its my experience that most small towns and other places have a Co-Op shop, they always seem to have an ATM just inside the entrance. I also believe that most or all ATM's are now free to use, a few years ago some private companies tried to charge a small fee (mostly in pubs I think and shops that are individually owned) for getting money out but I think that practice has now died out?

I use a poncho made by Vaude and I find it very usefull. I did use the section that went over the rucksack but I don't bother now, I just keep my rucksack coverered with a normal rain cover. I've never experienced the 'wind problem'. If I needed to control the poncho in such a situation I'd just attempt to fix it by securing my belt on the outside. My Vaude however has a neat little solution already built in, a 3" x 1/2" press stud strap that holds the front and rear bottom edges together, thats all I've had to use so far.


The backpack section is built into the Ferrino, so it can't be removed. It does look a little silly, but it keeps out the rain very well, so I accept the absence of making a fashion statement. I like the idea of having an ap on my phone that will tell me where ATMs are. Thanks again.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: Jonty1 on 19:59:00, 26/01/18
nd I wonder how safe that is. I won't have a checkbook for a British bank, and I doubt that checks from an american bank would be accepted

 

 
I have heard Dick Turpin takes his holidays in September, so you should be fine😀  
Have a really great time and enjoy.Btw what accommodation are you using?  

 
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: KathyDahm on 20:41:22, 26/01/18
nd I wonder how safe that is. I won't have a checkbook for a British bank, and I doubt that checks from an american bank would be accepted[/size]

 

 
I have heard Dick Turpin takes his holidays in September, so you should be fine😀
Have a really great time and enjoy.Btw what accommodation are you using?

 


As an American, I'm afraid I had to "google" Dick Turpin to find out who he was. Although I haven't heard of him, I did memorize Alfred Noyes' poem "The Highwayman" when I was around 13. :)  My plan is to stay in hostels and B&Bs, depending on the town and the availability. Right now I'm feeling quite intimidated, reading Rambling Man's account of walking the C2C. It's harrowing, and now I wish I had a hiking partner. I'd decided to go on the walk solo, but there are sections he describes that really do frighten me--fording rushing streams and walking along cliff edges and scrambling down nearly sheer mountainsides. I'm not sure I can do that by myself.  




Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: gunwharfman on 20:45:11, 26/01/18
What? Fording rushing streams, walking along cliff edges? I don't remember that. Was I on the right track, was he?

I'll have a read aof Rambling Man and make a comment later. Did I miss something?
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: ninthace on 20:52:26, 26/01/18
I have met quite a few Americans walking the C2C. Some did it the "hard" way but quite a few used baggage transfer companies to move their luggage each day and travelled relatively light. There are lot of people on the route so you will probably not be short of someone to talk to.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: KathyDahm on 20:57:03, 26/01/18
What? Fording rushing streams, walking along cliff edges? I don't remember that. Was I on the right track, was he?

I'll have a read aof Rambling Man and make a comment later. Did I miss something?


It's the part through the Lake District. I haven't gotten a lot further than that yet, but my heart is still pounding thinking about some of it. And I crossed the Pyrenees and two other mountain ranges walking the Camino Frances. Of course, I was only 73 then. Now that I'm 75, I'm not as fearless.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: KathyDahm on 21:04:19, 26/01/18
I have met quite a few Americans walking the C2C. Some did it the "hard" way but quite a few used baggage transfer companies to move their luggage each day and travelled relatively light. There are lot of people on the route so you will probably not be short of someone to talk to.


I'm very interested in using a baggage transfer company, but I'm wondering if one can arrange that day by day, rather than making a plan for the entire walk. I imagined that there would be lots of people walking in September. That's what I'm hoping for.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: gunwharfman on 21:37:32, 26/01/18
I've just had a read. I remember the first real descent after Cleator, a bit steep but it was just grass and bare earth where many footsteps had trodden as I remember. I didn't find it difficult, I just plodded my way down to the bottom, used my sticks to keep me steady and then at the bottom (about 50yds down) ordinary walking after that to Ennerdale. OK it was bright and sunny when I did it, three times in all, same sort of weather and I accept that if wet on the day it would be more slippy. At worst, as long as you were careful and used your sticks you might just slide down on your bum? I thought Rambling Man's paragraph about it was a teeny bit exaggerated, maybe I'm wrong?

At Ennerdale Lake there is a choice, its very easy if you keep to the left hand side of the lake and even if you chose the harder side both paths end up at the same place.

The bit up from Black Sail can be a bit of a puff but normally if you have daylight there's no need to rush at it. I enjoyed it, loads of good views, easy to sit down anywhere.

As regards the chain and rocks bit, I've missed that every time, I wonder how? From the slate mine to the Youth Hostel is downhill but I found it an easy enough stroll.

From the YHA to Grasmere is a nice walk, a bit up yes, a bit of a sweaty time, you have to make an extra effort at times, one place only I think was a bit steep but I do not remember any of it as too difficult. Going down towards Grasmere was a bit harder on my leg muscles but downhills can be like this anyway. I would certainly recommend going into Grasmere, its a nice twee little place and I'm sure a pleasant place to stay overnight.

Getting to Patterdale is a bit like going from the YHA to Grasmere, a bit uphill, a bit of a plod, over the top, then down to the Lake and then onward to Patterdale. Visually very nice. I agree with Rambling Man the YHA there, is (or was?) a bit of a dump. I was with company at the time so I did enjoy it. Glenridding is only a short distance away, I prefer this place more.

There is a bit of a plod uphill, well worn but not difficult terrain the next morning but once on the top, as I remember it, plain walking until you get to High Street. Then you drop down to Haweswater, this is a bit of a steep downhill section, but no real problem, my sticks help a lot and I found plenty of rocks to hold onto for balance or to sit on, its another downhill section thats all. Once at the bottom its more or less easyish walking until the end of the walk. After Haweswater then its mainly about general walking stamina that takes over.

One proviso though, if you are unlucky with the weather, as described by Rambling Man it can be horrible, no doubt about it, but for me I've been lucky. I've experienced similar weather in other parts of the Lakes and I know what its like to be miserable, fed up and and wet throgh, not nice at all.

I hope KD you are not going to be put off, I'm sure you will enjoy it. I was about 69, 70 when I walked it and I met older people than me doing it and faster as well.

These are just my personal memories, maybe others on the Forum will comment to support my view, or tell me my memory is rubbish?

Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: KathyDahm on 21:44:32, 26/01/18
Thanks so much for taking the time to read Rambling Man's account and tell me your own experience, gunwharfman. I must say, I feel a lot better about it, seeing it from your point of view. It does sound as though the weather can change everything, and if the weather is really terrible, there's no law saying that I can't either wait it out or skip a section. You've given my self-confidence a good boost. Many thanks.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: sussamb on 21:54:43, 26/01/18
I've never walked the C2C but done a number of long distance walks.  You've had some good advice here, I'll just add that as a 'cousin from across the pond' you'll be warmly welcomed so I hope you enjoy your trip :)
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: Ridge on 21:59:25, 26/01/18
Hi


Nothing to add to the advice but huge admiration. I wonder how many of your granddaughters friends Grandmas are walking across a whole country, what a brilliant role model.
You should have a wonderful time and there will be lots of friendly people to meet and chat to.


Ridge
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: KathyDahm on 22:05:00, 26/01/18
Thank you so much! I've felt all my life that my heart is British, because I was formed on British literature from a very young age (A. A. Milne, Enid Blyton,Frances Hodgson Burnett) and on through all the British literature I studied in school, college, and graduate school. Walking the C2C will feel like coming home, I know.


I don't know about being a role model, but I'd love to think that my granddaughters might enjoy long-distance walks too someday. My children themselves love back-packing and hiking, but the demands of life prevent them from accompanying me right now. Thanks to all for the encouragement.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: Ridge on 22:26:24, 26/01/18
If you didn't read it as a child you should try to find Arthur Ransome's  Swallows and Amazons before you come to the Lake District.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: KathyDahm on 22:30:54, 26/01/18
Thanks. I haven't read it. I see that our library has a copy of it though, and I'll read it right away! ,
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: TinTin on 09:27:08, 27/01/18
If it helps I did the C2C in May last year and amongst the many people I met I would say close to 50% were from your side of the pond  O0
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: jimbob on 10:28:49, 27/01/18
Baggage Transfer. I do not think it is as well organised as on the Camino Frances. However you have a bit of time, you can email a number of the companies and ask them for their procedure and their willingness to do day ahead bookings etc.

Gunwharfman gives great advice based on solid experience. The author (Ramblingman)  of the article has a wry sense of humour, but then again he did walk the Lake District part in the period of heaviest rain in decades. (The clue to the amount of rain lies in the name" Lake district", without plenty of rain there would be no lakes). Your poncho and waterproof legwear will take care of that. By the way Gunwharfman wears a rain skirt as a very light weight and easy on/off alternative to rain trousers.

 If you managed the descent from Alto de Perdon without mishap then you will manage the C2C descents.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: tonyk on 13:13:30, 27/01/18
 
Quote
Right now I'm feeling quite intimidated, reading Rambling Man's account of walking the C2C. It's harrowing, and now I wish I had a hiking partner. I'd decided to go on the walk solo, but there are sections he describes that really do frighten me--fording rushing streams and walking along cliff edges and scrambling down nearly sheer mountainsides. I'm not sure I can do that by myself.

 The Rambling Man's account seems a bit embellished to make good reading.I have done the coast to coast walk four times and can't recall fearing for my life at any point.Provided you have got decent footwear that maintains grip on wet rock and use walking poles you should be fine on the descents.Some of ascents can be a bit taxing but provided you go slowly and take your time you will get to the top.Yes,the route does go close to the cliffs at start and finish but not so close that you would go over the edge if you fell over.
 
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: harland on 13:29:04, 27/01/18

 The Rambling Man's account seems a bit embellished to make good reading.I have done the coast to coast walk four times and can't recall fearing for my life at any point.Provided you have got decent footwear that maintains grip on wet rock and use walking poles you should be fine on the descents.Some of ascents can be a bit taxing but provided you go slowly and take your time you will get to the top.Yes,the route does go close to the cliffs at start and finish but not so close that you would go over the edge if you fell over.
Totally agree.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: KathyDahm on 15:51:47, 27/01/18
I feel so encouraged by all of you! Many, many thanks! If the walkers I meet along the way are as helpful as all of you are, I'll have no trouble at all. I know that I'm going to run into rain. That was true on my two Caminos, especially in Galicia. That doesn't worry me as much as rain on rocky mountain paths, making them slippery. The descent from Alto de Perdon on the Camino Frances is not for the faint of heart, for sure, and I took it one step at a time, giving constant thanks for my hiking poles and for the fact that it wasn't raining when I was on that stretch. I did break it up too, stopping in El Acebo for the night before continuing the downward spiral. It was a treacherous descent, and I'll be glad if the descents on the C2C aren't any worse, but I'm not counting on that either. Frankly, I'm more concerned about fording streams (especially carrying a heavy pack), and walking on narrows paths with a drop-off on one side. I suffer from serious vertigo in situations like that. Very steep, long ascents are hard, but easier for me than the extremely steep descents. The hiking poles let me pull myself up the mountains. :)  And it's so rewarding at last to reach the top! 
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: harland on 16:04:13, 27/01/18
I am not sure whether you will need to "ford streams" that seems to indicate being up to your knees in the stream.  You are more likely to find that you will very occasionally be using stepping stones. I certainly didn't get my feet wet! ;D
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: tonyk on 17:15:23, 27/01/18
 The only part I can remember as being slightly exposed was at the start of the section from Keld to Reeth.If you are concerned about it there is an alternative route through the valley to Reeth.You can see the exposed section at 5.11 on this video.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cNmSQytPRxM

 Another section is the path at Ennerdale Water,but its only for a very short section where the path climbs over a crag.

 My first coast coast walk was in 1982 and it rained almost everyday.I can't remember having to ford any streams despite the constant rain.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: bricam2096 on 18:09:01, 27/01/18
Another section is the path at Ennerdale Water,but its only for a very short section where the path climbs over a crag.

And I would recommend taking the path on the other side of the water as it's smooth. Having done both paths, I know which I prefer  O0
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: KathyDahm on 03:38:44, 28/01/18
I've spent part of the day working on an itinerary and looking at the calendar, trying to decide when to leave here (probably Sept. 3) and when to return. I've decided on a 20 day itinerary, longer, I know, than most suggested ones. But I know from experience that I do best when I walk an average of 10-12 miles a day, and several days are necessarily longer--i.e. from Patterdale to Bampton Grange or Shap, from Orton to Kirkby Stephen, and from Kirkby Stephen to Keld. I've included a few short days, which I'm sure I'll be grateful for.
I have a couple of questions for those of you who are so familiar with the walk. Do you think that a rest day along the way is important?
And about that walk from Patterdale to Shap. Have any of you stopped at Bampton Grange, and does that make for an easier day or not much?
Any other advice as far as planning an itinerary is concerned would be much appreciated.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: KathyDahm on 03:52:40, 28/01/18
The only part I can remember as being slightly exposed was at the start of the section from Keld to Reeth.If you are concerned about it there is an alternative route through the valley to Reeth.You can see the exposed section at 5.11 on this video.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cNmSQytPRxM (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cNmSQytPRxM)

 Another section is the path at Ennerdale Water,but its only for a very short section where the path climbs over a crag.

 My first coast coast walk was in 1982 and it rained almost everyday.I can't remember having to ford any streams despite the constant rain.


Oh my goodness. My heart is doing flipflops. I think I'll need to do the alternative route through the valley to Reeth.  Is the second section on the north or south side of Ennerdale Water? I'd thought I'd walk on the north side, from what I've read, but if the section you're referring to is on the north, maybe I should reconsider. Your video is amazing though, and the scenery is so incredibly beautiful!
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: KathyDahm on 03:53:45, 28/01/18
And I would recommend taking the path on the other side of the water as it's smooth. Having done both paths, I know which I prefer  O0


So is the "other side of the water" the north or the south side?
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: tonyk on 11:25:03, 28/01/18

Oh my goodness. My heart is doing flipflops. I think I'll need to do the alternative route through the valley to Reeth.  Is the second section on the north or south side of Ennerdale Water? I'd thought I'd walk on the north side, from what I've read, but if the section you're referring to is on the north, maybe I should reconsider. Your video is amazing though, and the scenery is so incredibly beautiful!

 The south side of Ennerdale Water is the side with the narrow path.The section shown in the photo is the worst part.

 http://s0.geograph.org.uk/photos/54/59/545991_ff22382c.jpg

 The north side is far easier and probably the best choice if you are not comfortable on exposed ground.

 

 
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: Percy on 12:03:56, 28/01/18
I walked the c2c a couple of years ago. In terms of using an American credit card you will be fine with either Visa or MasterCard, some small places won't take American Express as they charge too much commission. You'll be able to use these in ATMs but I expect there are hefty charges for taking out cash with a credit card. There certainly are for UK credit cards. Your regular current (checking???) account card will be better to use.


In terms of ATMs along the way:


I can't remember if there is one in St Bees but as it's the start make sure you turn up with cash.


In my experience the shop in Cleator never has pies.  ;D  But it did have an ATM when I passed through 4 years ago.


The next ATM you will hit will be in Grasmere. Youth Hostels will take cards for accommodation and food and drink. As will pubs. After that you have quite a good run with machines in Glenridding (inside the village store) and Shap. Kirkby Stephen is a decent sized town and has a bank and an ATM in one of the supermarkets. There is a gap then to Richmond which again is a town with a handful of banks. It's after Richmond that it gets a bit sparse. I left Richmond with a good chunk of cash on me. There might be a cash machine in the shop in Reeth but I can't remember for sure.


Unless you have a particular interest in the history of mining I would take the lower route from Keld to Reeth along Swaledale as it is beautiful.


(http://www.holidayhomeyorkshire.co.uk/system/guide_images/images/000/000/163/large/IMG_1689.JPG)


If you take the valley route here then you won't encounter any real exposure on the route unless you take some of the high level alternatives in the Lake District. If the idea of exposure bothers you I would still recommend doing the high level alternative between Borrowdale and Grasmere (along to Helm Crag) - it doesn't add any ascent you just stay higher for longer which is well worth it in the Lake District. Weather permitting of course.


You will meet lots of people in September, often bumping into them each night in the pub.


You will have a great time.


tonyk is right about Ennerdale. Much easier walking along the north of the Lake - well made forest tracks - still a great walk.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: rural roamer on 13:47:24, 28/01/18
We walked the C2C about 6 years ago in September, over 16 days. We didn’t take a rest day but if you are thinking of doing that pick a larger place where there is something to do. A lot of people were stopping at Richmond, although it is over halfway probably has the most history.  Kirkby Stephen is the other stopping point. I’m not sure from your posts if you are camping or B&B and whether you are booking in advance. If so, could you pay by card before you leave home?  We walked the south shore of Ennerdale on a paricularly wet day and wished we had walked along the north. I would suggest that where there are alternative routes you keep an open mind and possibly change according to the weather. We ended up doing different routes to what we originally intended. We stayed in Bampton Grange because of the mileage to Shap and that was a good call for us as we ended up missing out Kidsty Pike along with a few others because of the tail end of an American hurricane! So we walked over the moors to Shap, which Wainwright actually mentions in his book. Baggage transfer companies - we used Sherpa, theres also Packhorse and Brigantes. You will have a great time and meet lots of people.  I always go prepared to have some bad weather and then I’m not disappointed! I think it sort of makes it feel like you’ve completed more of a challenge.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: ninthace on 13:56:49, 28/01/18

Oh my goodness. My heart is doing flipflops. I think I'll need to do the alternative route through the valley to Reeth.  Is the second section on the north or south side of Ennerdale Water? I'd thought I'd walk on the north side, from what I've read, but if the section you're referring to is on the north, maybe I should reconsider. Your video is amazing though, and the scenery is so incredibly beautiful!


Please don't do the alternative route to Reeth. The "exposed" section between Crackpot Hall and the bridge over Swinner Gill is very very  short and not at all scary, I ever done it loads of times in both directions - no problem at all and I don't like exposure.  You then get to climb up by East Grain beck (the higher and most obvious path is the easiest, don't be tempted to walk close to beck as it is a bit of a struggle out at the far end to gain the higher path).  The reward is having crossed the moor you will drop down into Gunnerside which is really beautiful and full of industrial archaeology - not to missed in my opinion and the ruin of the old peat store by the beck crossing makes a great spot for a lunch stop.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: Murphy on 15:25:51, 28/01/18
I agree absolutely with Ninthace........well worth the higher route over Swinnergill and down into Gunnerside.  Done it loads of times during regular stays at Muker/Thwaite. 
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: gunwharfman on 19:18:44, 28/01/18
Dear KD, I expect your overwhelmed with all the help and advice you getting you are getting? Just one other thing from me. I don't know what book, internet site(s) you are looking at but for the chance to study the route in great detail you might find it useful to go on Bing maps, and look up Ordance Survey, these I believe are the best of all. On Bing Maps they are provided free of charge. That is of course if you can log onto the UK version of Bing maps? If you want to view a map with the possibility of buying a real one, I chose Harveys, (www.harveymaps.co.uk) they show the route as a strip map in great detail and you only need two of them, the East and the West, costing £25.90. If you were tempted to buy Ordance Survey maps of the whole route I think it would cost you about £64.00. The other type of map is an A5 64 page booklet by the company A to Z (www.az.co.uk) witch is printed with Ordance Survey maps. The price is £10 I think. If I had realised at the time I bought my Harveys maps that the A to Z were in print I would have gone for their booklet maps without hesitation.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: KathyDahm on 19:36:26, 28/01/18
Dear KD, I expect your overwhelmed with all the help and advice you getting you are getting? Just one other thing from me. I don't know what book, internet site(s) you are looking at but for the chance to study the route in great detail you might find it useful to go on Bing maps, and look up Ordance Survey, these I believe are the best of all. On Bing Maps they are provided free of charge. That is of course if you can log onto the UK version of Bing maps? If you want to view a map with the possibility of buying a real one, I chose Harveys, (www.harveymaps.co.uk (http://www.harveymaps.co.uk)) they show the route as a strip map in great detail and you only need two of them, the East and the West, costing £25.90. If you were tempted to buy Ordance Survey maps of the whole route I think it would cost you about £64.00. The other type of map is an A5 64 page booklet by the company A to Z (www.az.co.uk (http://www.az.co.uk)) witch is printed with Ordance Survey maps. The price is £10 I think. If I had realised at the time I bought my Harveys maps that the A to Z were in print I would have gone for their booklet maps without hesitation.


Thanks so much, Gunwharfman, this is a great suggestion! I'm not at all overwhelmed with help and advice. Believe me, I need all I can get, especially during this planning stage. I'll see is I can get to the Bing maps, and I like the idea of buying the Harvey maps.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: KathyDahm on 19:41:53, 28/01/18

Please don't do the alternative route to Reeth. The "exposed" section between Crackpot Hall and the bridge over Swinner Gill is very very  short and not at all scary, I ever done it loads of times in both directions - no problem at all and I don't like exposure.  You then get to climb up by East Grain beck (the higher and most obvious path is the easiest, don't be tempted to walk close to beck as it is a bit of a struggle out at the far end to gain the higher path).  The reward is having crossed the moor you will drop down into Gunnerside which is really beautiful and full of industrial archaeology - not to missed in my opinion and the ruin of the old peat store by the beck crossing makes a great spot for a lunch stop.


I appreciate your advice, Ninthace, but I can't get the video posted by Tonyk out of my head. It looked heart-stopping, and seemed to go on for some time. I don't have courage when it comes to drop-offs, or exposure as you Brits call it. I'd really love the reward of crossing the moor and "dropping down into Gunnerside", but if I were to get to that point and not be able to continue, that wouldn't be good either. I wish I were younger. I might be more courageous then.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: KathyDahm on 19:44:51, 28/01/18
We walked the C2C about 6 years ago in September, over 16 days. We didn’t take a rest day but if you are thinking of doing that pick a larger place where there is something to do. A lot of people were stopping at Richmond, although it is over halfway probably has the most history.  Kirkby Stephen is the other stopping point. I’m not sure from your posts if you are camping or B&B and whether you are booking in advance. If so, could you pay by card before you leave home?  We walked the south shore of Ennerdale on a paricularly wet day and wished we had walked along the north. I would suggest that where there are alternative routes you keep an open mind and possibly change according to the weather. We ended up doing different routes to what we originally intended. We stayed in Bampton Grange because of the mileage to Shap and that was a good call for us as we ended up missing out Kidsty Pike along with a few others because of the tail end of an American hurricane! So we walked over the moors to Shap, which Wainwright actually mentions in his book. Baggage transfer companies - we used Sherpa, theres also Packhorse and Brigantes. You will have a great time and meet lots of people.  I always go prepared to have some bad weather and then I’m not disappointed! I think it sort of makes it feel like you’ve completed more of a challenge.


I agree about being prepared for some bad weather. Thanks for the advice about stopping at Bampton Grange. That sounds like a good choice for me. I won't be camping. I'll stay in hostels when I can, and otherwise, B&Bs.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: KathyDahm on 19:50:03, 28/01/18
I walked the c2c a couple of years ago. In terms of using an American credit card you will be fine with either Visa or MasterCard, some small places won't take American Express as they charge too much commission. You'll be able to use these in ATMs but I expect there are hefty charges for taking out cash with a credit card. There certainly are for UK credit cards. Your regular current (checking???) account card will be better to use.


In terms of ATMs along the way:


I can't remember if there is one in St Bees but as it's the start make sure you turn up with cash


In my experience the shop in Cleator never has pies.  ;D  But it did have an ATM when I passed through 4 years ago.


The next ATM you will hit will be in Grasmere. Youth Hostels will take cards for accommodation and food and drink. As will pubs. After that you have quite a good run with machines in Glenridding (inside the village store) and Shap. Kirkby Stephen is a decent sized town and has a bank and an ATM in one of the supermarkets. There is a gap then to Richmond which again is a town with a handful of banks. It's after Richmond that it gets a bit sparse. I left Richmond with a good chunk of cash on me. There might be a cash machine in the shop in Reeth but I can't remember for sure.


Unless you have a particular interest in the history of mining I would take the lower route from Keld to Reeth along Swaledale as it is beautiful.


(http://www.holidayhomeyorkshire.co.uk/system/guide_images/images/000/000/163/large/IMG_1689.JPG)


If you take the valley route here then you won't encounter any real exposure on the route unless you take some of the high level alternatives in the Lake District. If the idea of exposure bothers you I would still recommend doing the high level alternative between Borrowdale and Grasmere (along to Helm Crag) - it doesn't add any ascent you just stay higher for longer which is well worth it in the Lake District. Weather permitting of course.


You will meet lots of people in September, often bumping into them each night in the pub.


You will have a great time.


tonyk is right about Ennerdale. Much easier walking along the north of the Lake - well made forest tracks - still a great walk.


Thanks, Percy. This is all such good advice. I'm taking notes--about the ATMs and about the high level alternative between Borrowdale and Grasmere. I'm counting on that last bit about meeting lots of people and seeing them in the evenings. That was one of the joys of walking the Camino de Santiago de Compostela.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: TinTin on 09:20:28, 29/01/18
+1 to Ninthace and Murphy, took the higher route last year and was really no problem at all at the "exposed" section.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: Mick wmexile on 10:58:27, 29/01/18
Kathy, been following this thread you started, youve had some great advice etc, all I'm doing is putting a link to my blog I done after last years C2C. Please feel free to have a read if you wish, I know I read all blogs and trip reports before I walked it last year
http://mickwmexilec2c2017.blogspot.co.uk/2017/05/day-1-may-12th.html
Enjoy your walk and take home some wonderful memories of our little old England
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: tonyk on 12:37:54, 29/01/18
+1 to Ninthace and Murphy, took the higher route last year and was really no problem at all at the "exposed" section.

 Exposure is highly subjective.I came across two women at the start of this exposed section and they both refused to go any further due to feeling it was too dangerous.I tried to coax them into following me but they were very hesitant and decided to go back and follow the valley route to Reeth.As the famous American climber Royal Robbins pointed out,a lot of climbing accidents are caused by fear and imagination rather than the route itself being dangerous.

Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: gunwharfman on 16:02:29, 29/01/18
As a USA hiker you may not want to miss the mountain, High Street, who's history goes back to Roman times. When you hike up and over the top from Patterdale you will eventually pass Angle Tarn on your right. Beautiful spot, ideal for a break, especially if the weather is good, I camped there once overnight, magical! Further on you will soon get to the mountain, High Street, just after where you turn left towards Haweswater. High Street is the site of an old Roman road which then dropped all the way down to Penrith. Worth just walking here, stopping, breathing deeply and soaking up the history and atmosphere of the place. Loads of information on the internet about High Street, really worth a look. I remember a couple of blokes on this Forum site who walked from Penrith followed the 'road', I think to the top of High Street and sent photos back as well. I remember they had problems with snow on the day and had to shelter in a 'Bothie bag' for a while. I've tried to find the thread but have not been successful, maybe someone else on the Forum knows where it is?
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: sussamb on 18:47:50, 29/01/18
Following this thread with interest as I've decided I really must walk the C2C so aiming for June/July 2019 O0
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: Deolman on 15:47:56, 31/01/18
Walked the C2C solo in 2016 aged 68 and twelve months after having angioplasty following my second heart attack so no reason why a reasonably fit 75 should have any problems. All I would suggest is choose your route carefully.  There are sections where you have options to either go high or to stay low so it is not all about steep climbs and cliff edges. From my pre-planning I read that Kidsty Pike could be a challenge and talking to other C2C'ers in 2016 the coming down can be even harder.  I avoided this by booking accommodation in Bampton and taking the route around Ullswater  I thoroughly enjoyed the walk and plan to do it all over again this year. For a bit of extra reassurance have a look at personal trackers which you can use for emergency help even when there is no mobile phone signal.  There is a post started by 'gunwharfman' titled 'Personal Security whilst Hiking' which you may wish to look at.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: KathyDahm on 21:19:01, 31/01/18
Kathy, been following this thread you started, youve had some great advice etc, all I'm doing is putting a link to my blog I done after last years C2C. Please feel free to have a read if you wish, I know I read all blogs and trip reports before I walked it last year
http://mickwmexilec2c2017.blogspot.co.uk/2017/05/day-1-may-12th.html (http://mickwmexilec2c2017.blogspot.co.uk/2017/05/day-1-may-12th.html)
Enjoy your walk and take home some wonderful memories of our little old England


Thanks so much! I'm definitely going to read your blog! I already love your "little old England".
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: KathyDahm on 21:24:00, 31/01/18
Exposure is highly subjective.I came across two women at the start of this exposed section and they both refused to go any further due to feeling it was too dangerous.I tried to coax them into following me but they were very hesitant and decided to go back and follow the valley route to Reeth.As the famous American climber Royal Robbins pointed out,a lot of climbing accidents are caused by fear and imagination rather than the route itself being dangerous.


That is so true. I readily admit that my fear of exposed trails doesn't have anything to do with whether or not the trail is really dangerous. It's really a phobia. Being close to edges brings forth an inexplicable fear in me. I get weak-kneed and almost physically ill. Some people feel that way in enclosed places. I wish I could get over it, because it makes me miss out on some extraordinary experiences. I have 7 months to work on it, and then I can decide when I'm there.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: KathyDahm on 21:29:58, 31/01/18
Walked the C2C solo in 2016 aged 68 and twelve months after having angioplasty following my second heart attack so no reason why a reasonably fit 75 should have any problems. All I would suggest is choose your route carefully.  There are sections where you have options to either go high or to stay low so it is not all about steep climbs and cliff edges. From my pre-planning I read that Kidsty Pike could be a challenge and talking to other C2C'ers in 2016 the coming down can be even harder.  I avoided this by booking accommodation in Bampton and taking the route around Ullswater  I thoroughly enjoyed the walk and plan to do it all over again this year. For a bit of extra reassurance have a look at personal trackers which you can use for emergency help even when there is no mobile phone signal.  There is a post started by 'gunwharfman' titled 'Personal Security whilst Hiking' which you may wish to look at.


I'll take a look at personal trackers. Thanks for the encouragement. I've spent the past two days doing nothing but booking lodging along the way. I have it all done except for two nights, and I'm just waiting to hear from those places. I've booked in Bampton, because it seemed expedient for me, to break up that long hard day from Patterdale to Shap. I'd like to be able to cross Kidsty Pike, but I'm going to watch the weather closely and decide based on that.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: KathyDahm on 21:35:57, 31/01/18
As a USA hiker you may not want to miss the mountain, High Street, who's history goes back to Roman times. When you hike up and over the top from Patterdale you will eventually pass Angle Tarn on your right. Beautiful spot, ideal for a break, especially if the weather is good, I camped there once overnight, magical! Further on you will soon get to the mountain, High Street, just after where you turn left towards Haweswater. High Street is the site of an old Roman road which then dropped all the way down to Penrith. Worth just walking here, stopping, breathing deeply and soaking up the history and atmosphere of the place. Loads of information on the internet about High Street, really worth a look. I remember a couple of blokes on this Forum site who walked from Penrith followed the 'road', I think to the top of High Street and sent photos back as well. I remember they had problems with snow on the day and had to shelter in a 'Bothie bag' for a while. I've tried to find the thread but have not been successful, maybe someone else on the Forum knows where it is?


That sounds so beautiful! I haven't had time yet to study the maps closely. If I'm going to stay at Bampton (The Crown and Mitre Inn), will I have to take the turn to Haweswater and miss High Street. By the way, High Street sounds more like a street or road than a mountain.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: sussamb on 06:50:48, 01/02/18
No, you can still go over/along High Street, just that it will add a bit to your day, about a mile and a half, if you want to get to the top itself  O0
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: sussamb on 13:30:05, 01/02/18
I've spent the past two days doing nothing but booking lodging along the way. I have it all done except for two nights, and I'm just waiting to hear from those places.

Interesting to hear you've been able to book around now, as I was told there is a shortage of accommodation on the C2C and it can get booked up early.  Did you have any problems booking where you wanted or have you had to change plans due to places being full?  Just trying to get an idea of when I should start booking for my C2C next year!
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: KathyDahm on 18:47:17, 01/02/18
I'm not walking till September, so I'm still 7 months out. I wanted to get all the bookings done this early, because I've read too that places book up early. I wasn't able to get into a couple of places. For example, I wanted to stop at Jasmine House at Moor Row, but it was already filled. Because I didn't want a very long walk on my first day and because I couldn't find anything else, I booked at the Parkside Hotel in Cleator. That was the only hotel I had to use and the most expensive night of the walk. I booked at bunkhouses wherever possible and otherwise at the least expensive B&B I could find. I think that if I had waited a couple of months or maybe even less, I might have had to settle for more expensive and less interesting alternatives.


When I walked the Camino de Santiago (the Frances), I made reservations for my first night in St. Jean Pied de Port and for the second night at Orisson, on the way over the Pyrenees, but after that, I just decided each day as I walked (45 days). That allowed for decisions based on how I was feeling, blisters, or whom I had met. It allowed for spontaneity. This C2C walk will be much different, without allowing for things to just unfold. I have to have a bed for the night decided in advance. I don't think that will detract too much from the experience, but it will make it a different experience. If I were a camper, it would be much easier to be more spontaneous with decisions. At least I've made my own choices and haven't relied on a service to book for me. I expect it to be one of the most amazing experiences of my life.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: sussamb on 20:25:56, 01/02/18
Thanks.  I'm aiming to walk it in June/July next year, so will try to book towards end of this year.  If you have time will be interesting to hear how you get on  O0
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: Deolman on 21:56:12, 01/02/18
To avoid a very long days walking I made sure I had accommodation booked at the Lion Inn first then worked the rest of my accommodation from there. I generally get my accommodation booked a good 9 months in advance.  Saying that I only just managed to get accommodation at Grosmont.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: sussamb on 22:07:59, 01/02/18

To avoid a very long days walking I made sure I had accommodation booked at the Lion Inn first then worked the rest of my accommodation from there.

Yes, Lion Inn is on my list!
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: rural roamer on 22:31:55, 01/02/18
Yes there are certain places you should think of booking up first. We couldn’t get into the
Lion Inn and ended up having to go to the Feversham Arms in Farndale. I think we didn’t book up until about March to walk in the September. Other places to bear in mind are Keld where there’s not much accommodation as you also have the Pennine Way crossing.  And if I remember rightly avoid Grasmere at a weekend as most places insisted on minimum 2 night bookings then.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: Steve922 on 00:30:06, 02/02/18
All this talk of having to book ultra-early makes me wonder about the cost of these places. According to the law of supply and demand, I'd imagine they're really expensive?
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: sussamb on 07:10:44, 02/02/18
Most are okay if you get in early and book the cheaper ones!  Some are expensive though.


I'm intending to book hostels where I can and cheapest b&b's where I can't  O0
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: gunwharfman on 09:50:30, 02/02/18
I had a memorable evening and overnight in the Lion inn. I arrived there, going towards the Lakes, in really thick fog and camped in the field next to the pub. Whilst I was having a meal and a pint, a male American commercial tomato grower, with a loud voice, was telling everyone around him about the trials and tribulations of the tomato industry in the USA. He was very entertaining, especially when he talked about how they choose which tomato type to use for ketchup. Everyone new about ketchup so we were all very attentive. I slept very well that night and in the morning it was still very foggy. I walked along the old railway route for miles and didn't see a thing or another person.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: gunwharfman on 10:06:22, 05/02/18
I haven't used Google Earth for ages but did so again last night. The new version is so good! I spent over an hour just reminiscing over the routes, villages and towns that I've walked through, with a switch back and forth with Goggle Street maps for greater detail. It made my Sunday evening!
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: Deolman on 10:19:17, 05/02/18
I have used Mappx Qup for a number of years. It lets  you superimpose Google maps onto the OS map and follow your route.  The cursor on the map shows exactly where you are on your route. I have continued to use Quo despite downloading Base Camp as I find the mapping in Base Camp is not as clear as Quo.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: sussamb on 11:54:08, 05/02/18
Mapping in BaseCamp depends on which maps you install, I have around 10 different map types installed on my PC ... some are clearer, more detailed than others.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: jimbob on 13:13:15, 05/02/18
I wonder if it is about time to have a "Maps, GPS & Navigation" main board subject?

There is a huge amount of useful information coming into this forum which may be better suited in its very own main topic file.

Not a complaint or whinge, just an observation.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: Deolman on 15:23:11, 05/02/18
Mapping in BaseCamp depends on which maps you install, I have around 10 different map types installed on my PC ... some are clearer, more detailed than others.


When I brought my Garmin GPS it was being sold with the full GB 1:50K OS mapping but I also purchased the full GB 1:25K mapping.  These are on an SD card installed in the GPS.  The maps in base camp give the appearance of being slightly out of focus unlike the sharp details of the mapping on QUO which are installed on my computer.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: KathyDahm on 02:50:01, 08/02/18
If I could gently bring the discussion back to an "American walking the C2C", I'd like to ask what navigational guides I really will need to make the walk successfully. I'm not an experienced backpacker or hiker, although I've walked two Caminos, the Frances and the Portuguese from Porto, but they are both well way-marked and a guidebook was adequate. For the C2C, I'm a little worried about getting lost, in the Lake District especially. I hate to keep bringing up my advanced age (75 now, 76 in September when I plan to walk), but I confess to feeling a bit of trepidation thinking of walking in heavy fog or rain. All the discussion of GPS units and OS mapping leaves me feeling dizzy. Can I really do this?  :-[ 
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: sussamb on 06:45:41, 08/02/18
Well you will need some navigational skills I'm afraid on most long distance walks, the C2C in particular as if I understand some reviews it's not that well way marked in places.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: sussamb on 06:48:49, 08/02/18
When I brought my Garmin GPS it was being sold with the full GB 1:50K OS mapping but I also purchased the full GB 1:25K mapping.  These are on an SD card installed in the GPS.  The maps in base camp give the appearance of being slightly out of focus unlike the sharp details of the mapping on QUO which are installed on my computer.

The Garmin OS maps are raster maps, this means they are simply a copy of the paper map.  The further in you zoom they will blur, the 50K ones sooner than the 25K ones.  That's why I prefer to use free OSM mapping which is vector mapping, this stays sharp as you zoom in/out.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: harland on 07:18:47, 08/02/18
I must admit to not being up with all the technical "stuff".  Whilst I have walked a number of the LDPs I rely on maps (copies of bits I need rather than the whole map) although I also have a SATMAP that usually sits in my rucksack in case of need.  To use Open Street Map (OSM) I know that I can use it on my computer at home but I presume this is something that can be used on other handheld devices.  As my phone doesn't even have an alarm clock on it I presume that "modern" phones with Internet access will, of course, work but are there any other devices that will e.g. can another GPS device be "programmed" to use OSM as well as the pre-programmed maps - I am sure that my SATMAP won't - or will it? :-\ :-\
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: rural roamer on 08:14:16, 08/02/18
Sorry see next post, I accidentally clicked quote instead of modify. Must be too early in the morning for me! BTW can you actually delete a post?
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: rural roamer on 08:15:23, 08/02/18

As the C2C is not actually an official national trail it is not well marked in some places. You should definitely not rely on just a guidebook and should have map and compass skills. We had a guidebook, map & compass and SATMAP to fall back on and used all three. It is quite common to encounter mist and bog all year round.  I don’t want to put you off it’s a lovely walk but you do need to be well prepared so that you don’t become another mountain rescue statistic.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: Deolman on 08:40:38, 08/02/18
The Garmin OS maps are raster maps, this means they are simply a copy of the paper map.  The further in you zoom they will blur, the 50K ones sooner than the 25K ones.  That's why I prefer to use free OSM mapping which is vector mapping, this stays sharp as you zoom in/out.


Many thanks for the information - it will save me a trip to SpecSavers!
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: sussamb on 08:57:05, 08/02/18
To use Open Street Map (OSM) I know that I can use it on my computer at home but I presume this is something that can be used on other handheld devices.  As my phone doesn't even have an alarm clock on it I presume that "modern" phones with Internet access will, of course, work but are there any other devices that will e.g. can another GPS device be "programmed" to use OSM as well as the pre-programmed maps - I am sure that my SATMAP won't - or will it? :-\ :-\


Afraid satmap can't use OSM mapping as far as I know. Apps like ViewRanger do and all Garmins.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: tonyk on 09:16:15, 08/02/18
 People were walking the coast to coast long before GPS was available to the general public.The only places where you might have problems with navigation are the Lakeland mountain passes.Crossing into Honister,Greenup Edge and Kidsty Pike are places that come to mind.The crossing from Grassmere to Patterdale is easy enough,even in mist.Once you get past the Lakes the next difficult place is Nine Standards but in bad weather the road can be followed into Keld.Once past keld the rest is quite easy,at least in terms of navigation.

 Thousands of people do this walk each year and I am quite sure that not all of them are experts in navigation.With the amount of walkers on the trail there is always the opportunity to walk with someone else over the difficult sections.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: sussamb on 10:39:24, 08/02/18
Fair point, should always be possible to team up with someone.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: KathyDahm on 15:57:28, 08/02/18
Thanks for all this. I think I'm going to start by learning to use a compass and map well. My daughter wants me to take an on-line course on navigation with her, offered by Backpacker Magazine. First stop, REI to look for a good compass. I have the Harvey maps for the C2C. One step at a time.
I'll be happy to team up with others if that's possible when the going gets difficult.
On another note, yesterday I got in the mail Wainwright's Coast to Coast Walk with photographs by Derry Brabbs. It's breathtakingly beautiful. Books like this one, along with all the blogs written by people who have done the walk, are inspirational and motivating.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: Stube on 20:28:25, 09/02/18
I would always recommend the Trailblazer guides for the clarity of the mapping and the comprehensiveness of their accommodation information. Not as pretty as a Wainwright's guide though.

The latest (7th) edition is now available.

https://trailblazer-guides.com/book/coast-to-coast-path
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: KathyDahm on 22:53:24, 09/02/18
Yes, that's the guide I'll take with me, the Trailblazer guide, the 7th edition. It's so thorough and I love the maps. I also used his suggestions to help with my bookings. I love the Wainwright book for the photographs and Wainwright's interesting writing. The one I have is large, more like a coffee table book than a guide to take on the walk.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: jimbob on 23:11:08, 09/02/18
I photograph the trailblazer maps and keep them on my phone now.

I saw a fellow on the Camino Frances planning his next days walk using photographed pages and nicked the idea.

I am having a serious rethink about my use of technology following a serious battery failure recently.  So not sure at the moment that I have confidence in this any more, but when the gear works,  it is lighter than carrying a book.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: KathyDahm on 23:31:44, 09/02/18
That does lighten the load a bit. I might do that, as well as taking the book. I did not take a paper guide with me on the Camino Frances and relied on e-guides, but I quickly regretted the decision. I think it would work well for maps (as long as one doesn't have a battery problem) but I didn't like it otherwise. I find a real book so much easier to flip back and forth through.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: Ridge on 23:48:12, 09/02/18
Quote
I find a real book so much easier to flip back and forth through.
There is definitely something comforting in having a proper piece of paper with printing on it, though that may be me being an old fuddy-duddy.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: KathyDahm on 04:11:04, 10/02/18
I like that, "A proper piece of paper with printing on it". Couldn't agree more.  :)  Very comforting.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: rural roamer on 10:37:46, 10/02/18
For the C2C we used the Cicerone guide, but for our last two LDWs we have used the Trailblazer guides and think they are better than others we have used. Rather than take the book out each day, we now cut out the relevant pages and just take those in a waterproof holder. (Not applicable if you are not using a baggage transfer compny). Of course it ruins the book but you could always buy another! On the C2C we also had Wainwrights guide in our luggage.


Glad you are going to do a navigation course, I didn’t want to put you off but always better to be prepared!
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: sussamb on 13:02:05, 10/02/18
I am having a serious rethink about my use of technology following a serious battery failure recently.  So not sure at the moment that I have confidence in this any more, but when the gear works,  it is lighter than carrying a book.


It's why I carry a GPS plus spare batteries and a phone as backup.  I'm better prepared now than when I used a paper map.  How many of us carried a back up in case we lost our map, I know I didn't!
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: Islandplodder on 13:14:04, 10/02/18

I got very lost in Ireland a few years ago when the phone we had photographed the map on went flat.  But we didn't have anything like an OS map, just a photographed page out of a magazine. 
I always find I remember maps wrong when anything like that happens.....
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: Islandplodder on 13:16:58, 10/02/18

Cutting up a trailblazer guide worked very well on the Pennine Way;  I kept the pages for the day in my pocket, and threw them out at the end of the day.
Did have a map as well though!
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: fernman on 14:20:07, 10/02/18
Now my very practical wife would have suggested using them to wipe your b*m with  :)
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: Islandplodder on 22:08:13, 10/02/18
Ach, they were too shiny, moss is better in extremis
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: Deolman on 00:17:11, 11/02/18
I also use the trailblazer books and find the detailed information and the maps extremely useful. Bearing in mind I may want to repeat a walk, such as my second attempt at the C2C later this year, I copy them onto my computer then using DTP can lay them out with three or four maps to a page. I can then print them out double sided which allows me to store the days maps in my map case and keep the book in my rucksack. I also have the Harvey maps and the route is also downloaded onto my GPS.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: KathyDahm on 03:05:23, 17/03/18
I purchased the Garmin eTrex 30X which arrived today, and now I have to find a coast to coast map to put onto it. It looks as though I'm going to need to buy the Garmin GB Discoverer Coast to Coast Walk map, for about $179. Is that what you did? I have the Harvey maps and both the Trailblazer guide and Wainwright's guide. I'm not very technically savvy, especially with technology I'm not familiar with. I need to look for a "GPS guide for dummies". I wouldn't be surprised if someone has written one.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: sussamb on 08:46:41, 17/03/18
No need to buy the Garmin ones, there are plenty of free OSM maps out there. One of the best available I've found is from

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/0B-BtzqG8Y_Z0fkwxRm5vOWNjOEdHZGlUTUYzM0p3dEFmaTVMcHowNjBsZ3RXUWh6QzVfMkU

Read the instruction documents first which explain what to do.  I can also let you have a route that you can load into your GPS should you wish.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: Deolman on 09:07:20, 17/03/18
Plenty of information on the internet regarding use of your GPS. That being said they are not difficult to use and do not require a lot of technical savvy.  Agree with sussamb that you only need a basic map and a GPX file which will show your route as a coloured line on the map.  So long as you have your paper maps and know how to use a compass the GPS should only need to be used to confirm that you are still on route. You should download Garmin Basecamp onto you computer (free software) then import the GPX file.  You can then check the route and amend it to the route you have planned (there are different routes you can take depending on weather and/or your abilities) then just upload to your GPS.   Also make sure your batteries are fully charged at the start of each day and carry a spare set in your rucksack. I am planning to walk the C2C for the second time June/July this year as I enjoyed it so much the first time. Trust you will enjoy it as much as I did.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: sussamb on 10:24:30, 17/03/18
I'm walking it too in June/July but next year ... will be interested to hear how you get on  O0
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: sussamb on 10:27:15, 17/03/18
Plenty of information on the internet regarding use of your GPS.

True, good start is these videos https://www.youtube.com/playlist?annotation_id=annotation_494520&feature=iv&list=PL9D03CC85B73D025F&src_vid=Y5TqNsDeSms

and this guide which explains how to set up your Etrex http://www.aukadia.net/gps/lw3_0.htm

@KathyDahm If anything doesn't make sense just ask, there are a few of us here who can help  O0
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: fernman on 12:10:17, 17/03/18
I need to look for a "GPS guide for dummies". I wouldn't be surprised if someone has written one.

They have:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/GPS-Dummies-Joel-McNamara/dp/0470156236/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1521288341&sr=1-1&keywords=gps+for+dummies (https://www.amazon.co.uk/GPS-Dummies-Joel-McNamara/dp/0470156236/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1521288341&sr=1-1&keywords=gps+for+dummies)

But the best advice comes free, from sussamb and others on here  :)
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: Deolman on 13:01:22, 17/03/18
I'm walking it too in June/July but next year ... will be interested to hear how you get on  O0
 

Because of medical problems most of my route will be low level and I will be avoiding Kidsty Pike going around Ullswater and stopping overnight at Bampton. This worked out very well in 2016.  Will be interesting to see the route from 9 Stds now it has been paved - the bogs were awful when I last did it.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: sussamb on 13:15:12, 17/03/18
They have:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/GPS-Dummies-Joel-McNamara/dp/0470156236/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1521288341&sr=1-1&keywords=gps+for+dummies (https://www.amazon.co.uk/GPS-Dummies-Joel-McNamara/dp/0470156236/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1521288341&sr=1-1&keywords=gps+for+dummies)

I flicked through that a while back, mainly aimed at automobile use and in my view not particularly useful.  Much better info available via Google  :)

If though you prefer a book, and some do, this seems much better https://www.amazon.co.uk/Getting-Grips-GPS-Mastering-Navigation/dp/1904207383/ref=pd_sim_14_1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=2XJ32NBQADHFAZ0KCGKE
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: staggerindragon on 17:15:13, 17/03/18
I'm a bit late to the party, but I noticed your comment about rest days earlier.  They're a great idea and give you the option of recharging your batteries, doing chores or exploring the area.  My rest day near Keld turned out to be the first gloriously clear, hot day of the trip, so off I scampered to Tan Hill for a shorter hike and a nice cold beverage. ;-)
I hope you get the chance to eat at the Mango Tree in Kirkby Stephen.  Delicious!




Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: KathyDahm on 02:39:27, 18/03/18
No need to buy the Garmin ones, there are plenty of free OSM maps out there. One of the best available I've found is from

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/0B-BtzqG8Y_Z0fkwxRm5vOWNjOEdHZGlUTUYzM0p3dEFmaTVMcHowNjBsZ3RXUWh6QzVfMkU (https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/0B-BtzqG8Y_Z0fkwxRm5vOWNjOEdHZGlUTUYzM0p3dEFmaTVMcHowNjBsZ3RXUWh6QzVfMkU)

Read the instruction documents first which explain what to do.  I can also let you have a route that you can load into your GPS should you wish.
I've tried multiple times to download this file, but I haven't been successful. I keep getting an error message of "no mountable file systems." I have a MacBook Pro with OS High Sierra, version 10.13.3.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: sussamb on 07:32:52, 18/03/18
Sent you a pm  O0
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: Doddy on 12:11:43, 27/03/18


Ach, they were too shiny, moss is better in extremis.
In one of my ultralight hiking books a smooth stone is suggested which you throw into the distance.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: sussamb on 12:33:58, 27/03/18
 :-\
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: jimbob on 12:59:58, 30/08/18
HI Kathy I expect you will be setting off to cross the pond soon.
Hope you're full of calmness and anticipation for your trek.
You may have not that Dave aka Slogger is attempting a fast crossing, his trail is being tracked o it may interest you to have a look at his route.
Anyway hoping you enjoy your crossing which is to be done , as the Camino,  on your own way.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: KathyDahm on 16:30:06, 18/10/18
Thought I'd give an update, now that I've finished walking the C2C. To be completely honest, if I had known beforehand what it would be like, I might not have gone. But since I survived it, I'm glad that I did. I found it to be a much, much harder walk than either the Camino Frances or the Portuguese Camino.  I went with a Camino friend, 10 years younger than me, and his help got me through countless difficult spots. I can handle steep climbs and descents, up to a point. It was when the steep climb was on a narrow, rocky path, and became so steep that it was hard for me to find a secure foothold that I had problems--vertigo, fear of falling, severe anxiety, etc.  On those spots my walking companion would hold my wrist and walk ahead of me, until it was slightly less steep and I could breathe again and go on my own. The other terrifying spots were when the trail was narrow and there was a drop-off on one side. That didn't happen often, but more than I expected. For those of you who aren't bothered by edges or scrambling or climbing up extremely steep paths, my fears probably sound silly, but they weren't silly for me.


But aside from that, the bogs and mud and countless stiles to climb and sheep dung to avoid and gale force winds one day and rapid streams to ford and even most of the climbs and descents--all that was difficult but, in hindsight, exciting and adventuresome. My son says that "adventure is misery recalled in comfort" and that describes a lot of the C2C for me. But the rest, the glorious views day in and day out, even in the rain, were worth any amount of misery.


I also had the misfortune to have two nasty falls in the last two days of the walk. The first was on a steep gravel hill, when my pole slipped and then my foot and I fell very hard on a knee and elbow. The second fall was on the final day, walking towards the North Sea. We came to a boardwalk and my foot caught on the edge, causing me to fall very hard on the side of my face. I had a bad cut next to my eye which was stitched the following day, as well as a mild concussion, and the aches and pains that a hard fall can give one. All the same, I was able to walk the final 6 or 7 miles along the North Sea, delighting in the view and knowledge that I was close to dipping my boots in the sea and throwing in my rock. It was a heady feeling to do that, and then to go to Wainwright's pub, sign the book, and enjoy a pint of lager. 


Oh, and since I've been home, I've found out that I suffered a fracture in one foot early on in the walk. I thought I'd pulled a ligament in the foot, but the xray revealed the fracture. I'm glad I didn't know it at the time. :)  In spite of everything, I'm so glad that I did the walk and can say that I've walked all the way across England!
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: sussamb on 17:07:41, 18/10/18
Well done on making it despite all those issues, and thanks for the update  O0
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: April on 20:16:11, 18/10/18
Congratulations Kathy  O0 Well done finishing the walk despite all the injuries  :)

For those of you who aren't bothered by edges or scrambling or climbing up extremely steep paths, my fears probably sound silly, but they weren't silly for me.

You are not alone Kathy, there are a few of us on here that are not fond of steep drops.

"adventure is misery recalled in comfort"  :) Can't help but agree with this  :)
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: jimbob on 00:37:41, 19/10/18
Thanks for keeping in touch. You can feel very proud of yourself given the early injury , falls and fears. You did it. Well done.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: Ridge on 09:06:14, 19/10/18
Great to hear back from you Kathy and well done on completing the walk  O0
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: Innominate Man on 00:19:17, 20/10/18
Well done Kathy,


I only read your last post today and then back - tracked over the previous pages. You should be very proud of yourself, your adventure is quite inspirational.
Are you intending doing any other long distance walks or was this your last one (or perhaps better answering this after a few weeks to reflect on it)  ?
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: rural roamer on 10:18:55, 20/10/18
Well done, you definitely got through the mental as well as the physical challenges. The weather sounds similar to our C2C. Crossing the waterfall that was Loft Beck, tail end of hurricane that meant we walked along Ullswater instead of over Kidsty Pike in 60mph winds. Wouldn’t have missed it for the world though! Friends look at me as though I ‘m mad when they realise I actually enjoyed it.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: JFK on 18:18:36, 07/03/19
Kathy I read your last account, WOW!!!! I am planning on it in summer 2020 and would be ever so grateful to your wisdom. I would love to ask you about the high areas that you managed to get over and where they were. I am not a huge fan of heights and will be taking  the lower path on Striding but I know even that is filled with lots of danger. I will be 56 and doing this on my own as well and I want to take the high routes because I may not be able to do this again. Also, did you find you could get cash on the walk or no? I was thinking if I could pre-paying all of my accommodation which would GREATLY reduce the cash needed.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: KathyDahm on 20:08:33, 07/03/19
Hi JFK, I don't know your physical capabilities, so it's hard to know how to reply. I'm 76, in pretty good shape, and I have some experience with long-distance walking (the Camino Frances and the Portuguese Camino). The C2C was though very different from those. I first thought I'd walk the C2C by myself, but I know now that that would have been fool-hardy, and I probably wouldn't have made it. A Camino friend, 10 years younger than me, a man in excellent condition, decided to go with me, and he really did get me through the hardest places. The hardest parts are in the Lake District, for sure. There are often alternative routes, but even taking a less arduous route didn't eliminate some difficult sections. On the other hand, most people on this forum don't find the C2C terribly difficult at all. You need to be able to climb some very steep rocky paths, you need not to mind a few "edges", you need to be able to scramble on a few spots. Also, the way-marking can be poor, so you have to have good maps, either paper or digital, and even with those, it helps to have another set of eyes. There are places to get cash, but you need to plan ahead, for sure. I booked all my accommodations myself in advance and often paid in advance. But you do need to carry a fair amount of cash with you. The larger towns have ATM machines. In spite of the difficulties, it is an extraordinarily beautiful walk. It was worth every bit of effort to took. I think for the C2C, the more you plan and read and learn about it, the better off you are.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: JFK on 22:01:19, 07/03/19
Thanks Kathy!


I am in fairly good shape, besides walking about 5 miles a day (unfortunately it is all flat land but I do it religiously 7 days a week) I either teach or take yoga each day. I have never done a formal long distance walk, however when I was in the UK in November I logged between 7-10 miles a day (17 day trip) in either Malham (part of the Yorkshire Dales, think mountainous steep climbs and the descents were much worse in my opinion) or in Cumbria in the Shap area (been to Shap Abbey loved it). I never hurt and wasn't overly tired so I think I am good. I have bought about 10 books on the C2C and both the OS maps for the C2C (West and East) and the Harvey Maps. The Trailblazer is my bedtime reader. I have watched so many vids and read so many blogs in the months since I returned home that I feel I eat, sleep and dream of the C2C. My serious obsession. I am looking to get a GPS to load the waypoints from the Trailblazer website and now just trying to talk to ANYONE who has done this especially the Helvellyn over Striding portion.


My current route gives me an extra day in Grasmere (got to visit Dove Cottage) and Little Strickland (a hamlet outside of Shap) so I am on the road for 15 walking days. 


Bought a book on compass/map navigation and have already started practicing.


My thought of doing this alone is that it will be June and there will be people on the path ALWAYS. The hours of walking alone don't bother me (I love solitude) but making sure I know what I face definitely is prudent so I am trying to figure out what routes people took and then it will be a case of planning 2-3 routes in the Lakes because of safety due to weather. I know what it is like to be caught on top of Malham Cove in driving rain and how hard it is to walk down those stone steps . Limestone is slick!



I have purchased gaiters and practiced in the bogs of the Wekiva Forest here in Orlando Fl, my 14 mile walk ended up being 4 miles of serious swamp and climbing over fallen trees. I loved it!!


So that gives you a good bit on me. Anything you can impart on me and help me to learn I am here to absorb and that goes for anyone on this forum!
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: KathyDahm on 23:10:26, 07/03/19
You are going to be amazingly prepared!!!  From what you've shared, I don't think you'll have any trouble at all walking the C2C solo.  BYW, I stayed an extra night in Grasmere too to see Dove Cottage. Lovely. Just one other thing though. I purchased a Garmin GPS and loaded it with the C2C route, but when I got there, it was just too tiny to read easily. I never used it. Instead, a friend I met helped me download the ViewRanger app onto my iPhone, and helped me find a one-month subscription to purchase (very inexpensive), which put the C2C map on my phone. That was wonderful! It was easy to read and I always knew where I was and where the route was. I found it infinitely more helpful than the Garmin, which I've since given away. The ViewRanger uses GPS too, not data, so as long as my phone was charged, I was fine. I had a compass which came in handy once, and the Harvey maps. Every aid like that helps.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: sussamb on 06:58:49, 08/03/19
I purchased a Garmin GPS and loaded it with the C2C route, but when I got there, it was just too tiny to read easily. I never used it. Instead, a friend I met helped me download the ViewRanger app onto my iPhone, and helped me find a one-month subscription to purchase (very inexpensive), which put the C2C map on my phone. That was wonderful! It was easy to read and I always knew where I was and where the route was. I found it infinitely more helpful than the Garmin, which I've since given away. The ViewRanger uses GPS too, not data, so as long as my phone was charged, I was fine.


Guess it depends on numerous factors, including how good your eyesight is.  I've used an Etrex 20 as my primary nav aid for over seven years now, and an Etrex H for years before that.  Never had an issue reading it.  I also have viewranger on my phone as a backup.  I use the phone quite regularly when out with my local SAR team, as we're tracked using the VR buddy beacon app, but I find it far more cumbersome to use than my Etrex, which fits into my hand/pocket far more easily and provides better information as I go along.  I no longer carry paper maps.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: bricam2096 on 08:01:22, 08/03/19
Another vote for the Etrex 20 which I bought after my first C2C.  O0

On my first C2C I got to the top of Greenup Edge after Borrowdale and was in the mist and couldn't see any paths. I didn't want to go the wrong way, especially on my own so had a rest and waited about 10 mins till the group behind me caught up then I followed them at a distance until the mist was gone. At that point I decided to get a GPS and I've used it ever since, clips nicely onto my backpack strap loop.

On my first C2C I had the Harvey maps and a wainwright guide book. I found the Harvey maps to not show enough detail but the guide book obviously was more "zoomed in" and showed the path clearly.

I put the guide book in a sandwich bag, kept the rain out plus it kept the page for me so I didn't have to keep opening up the book and searching.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: JFK on 16:46:55, 08/03/19
Thanks Kathy and Sussmab for all the GREAT advice. I am absorbing it ALL!!!
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: JFK on 16:50:02, 08/03/19
Bricam2096 I had a thought to photocopy all of the maps in the trailblazer book, laminate and put into a clear mapcase around my neck and keep my larger maps in my backpack. Figured I could just keep the days maps with me so I don't get lost. Still debating on the GPS but if  I can get my android to do the GPS thing I will do that too. I am one of those "be prepared for zombie apocalypse" people and have plans A-Z for everything  :)
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: gunwharfman on 16:52:46, 08/03/19
I use Backcountry on my Android phone, works with problems or fuss. I'm sure there are a number of equally good apps available, I like mine because it displays as an OS screen.
Title: Re: American walking the C2C
Post by: JFK on 16:55:00, 08/03/19
Thanks Gunwharfman, I will check it out!