What equipment will i need to climb Snowdon & Ben Nevis?
March 15th, 2010 | by admin |For a charity walk, I’m not getting into serious hiking, but planning on Snowdon and Ben Nevis this year.
I dont currently have any hiking gear, what sort of stuff will i need.
Im on a relativly small budget
Most physically healthy people can complete the ascent of either in good conditions, even children with responsible adults and old people. Nevertheless it is a tough walk, specially if not used to fell walking .Make sure you get local weather forecast and cloud level for the day.( local YHA)
Importantly one should not pursue these walks alone, preferably with someone familiar with Landranger maps and compass( to avoid getting off safer routes, like the Pyg Track on Snowdon. Wandering off these in fog is so easy and fatal with precipitous drops , specially on Snowdon
Be prepared for sudden changes in weather in these regions.
Use good walking boots, a woolly hat as temperatures can plummet with wind chill and height. One third of body heat is lost though the head.Also hands must be warm. Have Anorak and showerproof over trousers. Rucksack with water, raisins, chocolate, fruit like banana which contains potassium for stamina. Spare jumper and socks as you will most certainly encounter very wet underfoot conditions.
A whistle and torch with basic first aid kit is recommended and to be really kitted out a survival bag and or foil wrap could save your life if you do get stranded in fog or darkness.
2 Responses to “What equipment will i need to climb Snowdon & Ben Nevis?”
By Crowkit on Mar 15, 2010 | Reply
Both are hill climbs, make sure you have boots that are well worn in. Ensure you know what the weather conditions are going to be, and prepare for them.
Ensure you are going with at least 2 other walkers.
Bring adequate food and water
References :
By bryn on Mar 15, 2010 | Reply
Most physically healthy people can complete the ascent of either in good conditions, even children with responsible adults and old people. Nevertheless it is a tough walk, specially if not used to fell walking .Make sure you get local weather forecast and cloud level for the day.( local YHA)
Importantly one should not pursue these walks alone, preferably with someone familiar with Landranger maps and compass( to avoid getting off safer routes, like the Pyg Track on Snowdon. Wandering off these in fog is so easy and fatal with precipitous drops , specially on Snowdon
Be prepared for sudden changes in weather in these regions.
Use good walking boots, a woolly hat as temperatures can plummet with wind chill and height. One third of body heat is lost though the head.Also hands must be warm. Have Anorak and showerproof over trousers. Rucksack with water, raisins, chocolate, fruit like banana which contains potassium for stamina. Spare jumper and socks as you will most certainly encounter very wet underfoot conditions.
A whistle and torch with basic first aid kit is recommended and to be really kitted out a survival bag and or foil wrap could save your life if you do get stranded in fog or darkness.
References :
Camping shops and Scouting outfitters have excellent books for the novice and expert alike.
Whatever your inexperience you will feel a great sense of wellbeing and achievement first time. The trick is not to suffer for it with sore feet or cold wet clothing next to your skin.
Wool is warm even when wet but man made jumpers not good enough.
The advice may seem a bit overdone but better than risk your life. Finally its wise to leave behind with someone your expected return time to your accommodation, together with the route you plan.
( Former Queen Scout and Group Scout Leader)