Three Wainwrights from Cat Bells
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Join me on this second Wainwright walk I'm leading this weekend in the Lake District
Saturday walk - https://www.outdoorlads.com/event/waterfalls-wander-wansfell-pike
Catbells is one of the most popular fells in the Lake District to climb and for good reason, as the view all the way up and from its summit is breathtaking. This route not only includes this memorable fell but also two others along half of the Newlands Horseshoe. From Hawse End at the very bottom of Catbells this route follows a zigzag path up the front of Skelgill Bank. The views down to Derwent Water, Keswick and over to Skiddaw are fantastic and only get better as height is gained. After an easy scramble the route arrives at a minor summit called Skelgill Bank and is the first opportunity to see the rest of the route up to the summit of Catbells. The route is very easy going until you reach the final steep section to the summit, but once at the top the reward makes it all worth it.
After enjoying the spectacular views from Catbells the route continues along the ridge to the south to pick up a path leading to the next Wainwright summit; Maiden Moor. This fell has a very different feel from Catbells and you are more than likely to have this peak to yourself. The views offer a bird's-eye perspective of this end of the Newlands Valley. The route-continues south along the ridge (generally easy going) to the third Wainwright, High Spy.
High Spy stands at 658m (2,159ft) above sea level and offers views to some of the highest peaks in the area ,including the mighty Great Gable and the north face of Dale Head close by. From this lofty height the route starts its descent. It follows a path south, almost as far as Dalehead Tarn before turning north-west and following a steep route down to the valley floor between Hindscarth and High Spy. The crags up to the right are dramatic and give a truly secluded feel to the area. The path passes several old mines, of which huge spoil heaps and open levels can be seen along the way. The route then simply follows the valley floor to Little Town through woodland and along the shore back to the car park.
What to bring
The following is a full kit list, but decent boots, proper walking trousers/shorts and waterproofs (if it likely to rain) are a must. Jeans are generally to be avoided and you should avoid cotton t-shirts.
Boots: Hiking boots are arguably the most essential piece of kit when hiking just about anywhere. Walker’s should make sure that their boots are both waterproof and breathable, and provide good ankle support. Boots should also be in good condition.
Socks: Walking socks are often overshadowed by those new to hiking, with many novices failing to invest in proper socks. Good walking socks are essential in regards to keeping the feet dry, and in turn stopping the development of blisters. Sports socks and other socks not designed for walking will often become waterlogged, or damaged which will in turn blister feet.
Gators: Gators attach to the bottom of walking boots and extend to just under the knee. They provide waterproofing for the bottom half of the leg, and are essential in keeping the feet dry.
Walking Trousers: Walking trousers should be of a windproof design and made of a rip stop material, that will stand up to walking through ferns and undergrowth. They should also ideally be water resistant, or at least not gain weight, and lose their insulation properties when wet. Jeans are therefore to be avoided, as they are heavy when wet and provide no protection from the elements.
Waterproof Trousers: Waterproof trousers are essential in keeping the legs dry, as water resistant trousers will not keep out any significant rainfall.
Walker’s should look for waterproof trousers that are breathable, in order to avoid being soaked with sweat.
Base Layer: A breathable base layer should be chosen in order to let sweat escape from the body. This should ideally consist of a breathable synthetic, specially designed fabric, though a cotton T-Shirt is sufficient.
Mid Layer: A Mid Layer goes on top of the base layer and should consist of a 100 weight micro fleece, or a rugby typed thick shirt. The layering system is important as it allows walkers to quickly adapt to changes in the weather as well as body temperature.
Outer Layer: The outer layer should consist of a windproof jacket or a thick fleece. This is the final layer and walkers should ensure that this layer provides ample warmth.
Waterproof Jacket: A good waterproof jacket is one of the most important pieces of kit you will require when hiking. Walkers should look for a jacket that is both waterproof and breathable in order for them to be protected from sweat. Materials such as Gore-tex are often the best choices.
Hat: As most heat is lost through the head a good hat is essential. The best hats are those of a fleece design, with wool also being acceptable.
Gloves: Gloves are essential in the colder months as walkers will require the usage of their fingers for various activities such as map reading. Windproof or better still waterproof gloves are the best choice.
Rucksack: A good Rucksack that is comfortable to wear is essential, and required to carry both food and equipment. Day sacks should have a capacity of around 30 litres with equipment being placed in water proof bags inside.
Emergency Equipment: A number of items should be taken in case problems occur whilst walking in the hills. Emergency equipment becomes of greater importance the further from civilisation walkers are. Equipment should include spare food stuffs of high energy, a survival bag, a whistle, a medical kit, a torch and something to make fire, either storm proof matches or a firelighter.
Food & Water: At least two litres of water should be brought for each day hiking, with more being taken if cooking is required. Enough food for the duration of a walk should also be taken. Food should be of the high energy variety, with hot food being able to be eaten raw if necessary.
Map & Compass: A map of the area being walked in is essential as well as a compass. The map should be in a waterproof bag or be of a waterproof design.
Mobile Phone: A mobile phone should also be brought and kept in a waterproof bag for use in emergencies.
Food & drink
Please bring a packed lunch and any other provisions with you.