Winter Walks


	*FELL WALKING WITH PENSIONERS.*


	*THIS SITE HAS BEEN COMPILED AT A RESOLUTION OF 800 X 600*


	*A SITE BY PENSIONERS WHO STILL ENJOY FELL WALKING*.

		ISSUE 24 14th March 2008




	Winter hill walking, is a different proposition to walking in the other three seasons. The weather on the hills, changeable at any time, is more fickle in winter. Getting it wrong in summer may result in a dowsing. In winter an error may result in being snowed in, much more serious. However if the correct procedures are followed, winter walking can be the most rewarding and memorable walking of all. Correct procedures include, following the area weather reports, right up until you leave. Carrying the correct winter essentials. This starts with a winter rucksack, of at least thirty five litres capacity. A shell jacket, typically 2/3 layer Goretex. A wind proof fleece. Thermal base layers, vest and pants. A good pair of trousers, possibly wind resistant.


	Overtrousers and gaiters, along with good firm leather boots complete the clothing requirement.

Hot drinks along with extra emergency food and clothing, is a wise precaution. All this on top of the normal requirements of hill walking, is essential in winter. If you are likely to meet considerable quantities of snow and ice, you should carry, and be proficient with, crampons and an ice axe. More time for the walk should be allowed in winter. Plan escape routes, should the weather or daylight catch up with you. Dont over estimate the ability of your party, or yourself. Shorter walks are the order of the day in winter, unless you are very experienced. All this said, winter in the mountains is a wonderland experience, when the weather is good, and safe snow covers the tops.




		*To see further winter walking photographs, CLICK either of the two photograghs.*


	Even allowing for taking all the precautions above, it is still possible to be caught out in the hills. Margaret and I were caught by an unforcast blizzard, as we approached the top of Ingleborough. Fearing for the road conditions we beat a hurried retreat. Close observation of the above photos will reveal the snow being driven horizontally across us. Worse was to come when the road conditions were as bad as we feared. Our journey home took us four times longer than it should.


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