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Sat
18Feb17 The Old Man Of Coniston (803m) The Old Man Of Coniston (803m) is sometimes
known by the alternative name of Coniston Old Man, or simply The Old Man. The views are excellent and extensive on a
clear day, including much of the southern Lake District, Morecambe Bay,
Blackpool Tower, the Pennines, the Lancashire coast and the Isle of Man. The mountain is popular with fell-walkers
with a number of well-marked paths to the summit. This has resulted in the resident sheep becoming quite
tame, showing no fear and rifling into unwatched rucksacks for food. Starting almost at sea level from Coniston
we will ascend via Walna Scar Road to Brown Pike
(682m), then head north over Buck Pike (744m) and Dow Crag (778m), followed
by a short drop to the saddle Goat Hawes (649m) where there are some crags
which provide some protection for a nice rest stop before a last push to the
summit at The Old Man Of Coniston (803m) for lunch. Then descend east past
waterfalls and ancient abandoned mine workings (some of which are over 800
years old). There are various options to extend this walk on the summit
should time and people allow. This route is not severe but is rated hard,
high, remote and cold! Yet it is fantastic and well within most walkers’
ability. Ultimately you don’t know until you try. We really welcome beginners, we will
support you and we don’t expect you to rush first time. We were all newbies
once and it is an honour to help guide someone on their first winter mountain
walk. If you are young, healthy, got a positive
mental attitude and do some practice walks, running or cycling and bring the
proper equipment, food, extra food and snacks you should be ok and will
improve very quickly. However, if you have underlying health issues
or make no effort to prepare whatsoever you risk
spoiling your enjoyment and that of the whole group. Sleeping over is highly recommended due to
the remote location. See the diary for the St Valentine’s weekend away. If
you are coming just for the day then please let the walk leader know at least
a few days beforehand because winter plans sometimes need to change. Meet 9:00am and start walking at 9:15am
prompt. Address: YHA Coniston Holly How, Far End,
Coniston, Cumbria, LA21 8DD http:// Distance: 8.5 miles Walk grade: Hard |
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Photos from the
splendid Jan 2015 Coniston Take A Hike trip |
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