With snow forecast for many over the weekend, the outdoor experts at Blacks’ have hand-picked their favourite winter hikes across the UK, and their social community have shared their top tips for heading outdoors this season.
1. Grisedale Pike & Hopegill Head: Recommended by Katy Tunney
Route Overview: Grisedale Pike rises dramatically over the small village of Braithwaite, close to Keswick. Reaching the summit of Grisedale Pike can be achieved along a selection of routes which vary in difficulty and distance, many of which are looped. Discover the route here.
Katy says:“ It’s important to plan and research the route in advance and let someone know where you’re going”. It’s also important to check the forecast and consider sunrise/sunset times”.
2. Aonach Eagach, Glencoe: Recommended by Liam Campbell
Route Overview: Aonach Eagach is an exposed and challenging ridge lying to the north of Glencoe in the Scottish Highlands. It boasts two Munro summits which are thrilling, giving experienced scramblers a grade 2/3 scramble. High fitness level and scrambling skill is required. Discover the route here.
Liam says: ““The days are short through the winter season so accounting for time is important and always having that head torch and spare batteries in your pack will come in handy!”.
3. The Trinnacle (Saddleworth Moor): Recommended by Joe Dambra
Route Overview: The Trinnacle is an isolated three-pronged rock formation which soars impressively above the Greenfield Valley, Dovestone Reservoir and Yeoman Hey Reservoir. Located on the north-western edge of the Peak District National Park, this impressive viewing platform is a spectacular monument which forms part of the Trinnacle Trail. Discover the route here.
Joe says: “ If you are a new hiker looking to explore in the snow, I would recommend getting snow spikes as they make a massive difference”.
4. Sca fell & Mickledore: Recommended by Michael Lazenby
Route Overview: Mickledore is a narrow and challenging ridge which connects the mountains of Sca Fell and Scafell Pike. This pass connects the valleys of Wasdale and Eskdale, acting as a dramatic and exciting route for those looking to scale Scafell Pike along a more adventurous route. Discover the route here.
Michael says: “Layers, layers and more layers! Being prepared will mean you’ll have an even better time in the snowy mountains this season”.
5. Wensleydale, The Yorkshire Dales: Recommended by Wendy McDonnell
Route Overview: The circular walk from the National Park Centre at Aysgarth in Wensleydale takes in three flights of waterfalls; a popular route for Wordsworth, Turner and Ruskin. This relaxing hike is a favourite with photographers looking to capture that prize picture. Discover the route here.
Wendy says: “Particularly in winter, the Dales can be quiet so let someone know where you are walking and when you will be back”.
6. The Glyderau, Snowdonia: Recommended by Phil & Sam
Route Overview: The Glyderau is a mountain range in Snowdonia, North Wales. The range is smaller than the Carneddau, with only 11 peaks over 600m, but it is a fantastic range for walkers. Discover the route here.
Phil says:“Always have a plan B, if conditions once you arrive in Wales have taken a turn, then a more manageable route should always be considered, perhaps a low down walk”.
You can read the full research by clicking here.
