Summer Solstice at Helvellyn
22 people attending
6 places left
If you're looking for a true mountain experience this summer, join us in Glenridding at the base of one of the Lake District's most famous mountains, Helvellyn.
We'll be staying at a hostel a ten-minute drive from the village of Glenridding. From our accommodation, we have access to a number of mountain walks in the surrounding fells, ridges and peaks.
On Friday evening, after dinner (and weather permitting), we will take an evening walk to the lake at the base of Helvellyn, Red Tarn, to watch the sunset.
Conditions permitting, on Saturday will be attempting to scale Striding Edge, a grade 1 scramble, before heading to the peak of Helvellyn. We'll be aiming to run an exciting and challenging day in the mountains. We'll also plan a shorter walk for the Sunday for those who don't need to dash off after breakfast.
Dogs: Due to the accommodation layout, we cannot accommodate dogs at this event.
Photos: Take by Matt Tennant and used by OutdoorLads with full permission.
IMPORTANT! - Participation Statement
You MUST complete a Participation Statement, in addition to booking your event space before attending an OutdoorLads event. You only need to complete this Participation Statement once, not for each event you attend.
What to bring
Bedding or towels is not provided, you will need to bring your bedding or ideally a sleeping bag.
Water: bring at least two litres in a water bottle, or better still, a hydration bladder
Medicines: if you have hay fever, diabetes, minor ailments etc.
Day Rucksack: typically 20-30 litres, they are comfortable to wear and allow you to use your arms freely
Waterproof bags: keep spare clothing, electronics and anything else dry even when your rucksack leaks by using Ziploc type food bags or, better still, outdoor activity waterproof bags
Boots: waterproof and breathable hiking boots with good ankle support
Gaiters: recommended for wet weather or boggy conditions
Socks: proper walking socks will keep your feet dry and help prevent blisters, and carry a spare, dry pair
Walking Poles: always optional, love them or hate them, but give them a try and decide for yourself
Layered clothing: lets you quickly adapt to changes in the weather and body temperature. Go for a base layer (vest or t-shirt) and a mid layer (a micro fleece or shirt) and in cooler weather add an outer layer (a windproof jacket or thick fleece)
Trousers: no jeans as they become heavy and cold in the rain, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry and on warm days shorts are OK
Waterproof jacket: essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry.
Gloves: Windproof, or better still, waterproof gloves are the best choice, bring a spare pair if expecting rain.
Snacks: bring biscuits, energy bars, gels, bananas, chocolate or dried fruit for example and put them somewhere easy to get hold of
Lunch: bring a packed lunch unless otherwise stated
Emergency equipment: the walk leader will bring any emergency equipment required for the group, but you are welcome to bring any that you have, such as additional high energy food, a survival bag, a whistle, a medical kit, a torch and something to make fire (either storm proof matches or a firelighter
Map and compass: the walk leader will have these, but if you like map reading or want to develop your skills, bring yours along
Mobile Phone: keep it in a waterproof bag for use in emergencies, and a spare battery/charger is a good idea
Food & drink
Your event cost includes breakfast on Saturday and Sunday, dinner on Saturday night and tea/coffee throughout the weekend.
On Friday night, as a change to the regular ODL hostel buffet, there will be a jacket potato dinner with a range of toppings.
Don't forget that you will need food for a packed lunch on Saturday (sufficient to sustain you out on the hills), together with any other drinks you may want over the weekend.