New to walking - High street walk including Kidsty pike
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Good afternoon
I am new to wainwright walking and have completed Arnison, Birks, Wansfell, Sower Howes and Sallows.
I have done these with my partner- I am keen to do the High street walk on here on my own - I am nervous about the decent from Kidsty.
To a newbie could you give me some advice around this walk or walking alone in general
Thanks Collette
Hi Collette
In general I think walking alone is fantastic, I can walk at my pace whether it be fast or slow. Occasionally I meet someone going the same way as me and we walk together for a bit, which is nice. Also nice when you break off and go in different directions. It's rare that I've actually not seen anyone else on the fells or hills all day. For a few years now I've been carrying a PLB just in case I have, or come across, an incident where there is no phone coverage. PLB's are a 'help me' of last resort.
As for Kidsty Pike, I assume you mean the descent through Kidsty Howes. We have a couple of walks, including the High Street one, that pass that way:
High Street (Racecourse Hill), and a few friends, from Mardale Head
I found the descent straightforward, although steep and loose in places with the path well worn and easy to follow. The key, on this or any steep descent, is not to be intimidated, take your time, be aware of foot placement and weight distribution especially don't lean back and then let you feet come out from under you on a thin covering of small stones - aka marbles. And if you don't like the look of something, scout around for an alternative, or take to the heather and grass.
If you are still unsure of a descent, perhaps think about reversing the route. It's sometimes easier to go up a steep section than down it.
colli.bateman@sky.com likes this postThank you for the advice - I will let you know how it goes weather permitting
Just to let you know I completed it - yay - the decent was a bit scary but I took it slow - thank you for your advice.
Jimearl6 and 2 others like this postParticipants in these activities should be aware of and accept these risks and be responsible for their own actions.