POSTPONED Moel Siabod between Christmas and NYE
2 people attending
10 places left
*** This is the event that was originally intended for 27.12.23 but was postponed due to weather conditions***
Need a break from Christmas festivities and want some fresh air in the mountains? This mid-week mountain walk might be just the thing if so!
We will be walking up Moel Siabod (872m) via the disused quarry and Llyn y Foel lake, round the southern side of the mountain. After a quick break in the shelter at the top (where a hot drink is highly recommended) we will be returning via the northern path towards the forest and then past the Cafe Siabod at the side of the A5 for coffee and mince pies. It's just a 1km walk along the A5 back to the car park.
If the weather permits, the views from the top of Moel Siabod are quite spectacular and 13 of the 14 highest peaks of North Wales may be visible.
This is a fairly substantial but not technical mountain walk with a total ascent of 770m, over 12km and should take about 5 hours.
Some previous mountain walking experience is advisable as given the time of year, we can expect it to be very cold with some ice or snow although there is nothing technical to cope with.
Dogs are welcome although normal rules apply with them needing to be kept under control or on leads when walking through farmland with livestock. Please ensure your dog is able to cope with low / freezing temperatures.
The event is subject to weather conditions on the day. The walk is not intended to require specialist equipment that would be necessary in the event of deep, compacted snow and ice. If the conditions on the day would require use of equipment such as crampons or ice axes, we will re-route to a lower level walk - of which, there are several great options available and a good day out is all but assured.
Photos: Taken by event leader; free for others to use.
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Anyone with COVID-19 symptoms, even if they are extremely mild, or who has recently tested positive for Covid-19, is asked not to attend.
*see kit list.
What to bring
Please bring plenty of extra layers for cold / freezing temperatures. With the windchill on a breezy day, with an air temp of 0C, the feels like temp can be -15 C. Hat, gloves, fleece, jumpers, neck warmer and a decent windproof / waterpoof are pretty much essential.
Standard mountain kit list:
Boots: Hiking boots are arguably the most essential piece of kit when hiking just about anywhere. Walkers 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 to keep 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.
Gaiters: Gaiters 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. Walkers 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 30-40 litres with equipment being placed in waterproof bags or a liner 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 whistle, a medical kit, a head-torch.
Food & Water: At least two litres of water should be brought for each day hiking. Enough food for the duration of a walk should also be taken. Food should be of the high energy variety.
Head Torch: With full charge or spare batteries.
Map & Compass: Bring a map and compass if you are interested in doing some navigating practice!
Mobile Phone: A mobile phone should also be brought and kept in a waterproof bag for use in emergencies.
Food & drink
A flask of something hot would be a great idea.