Venturing out in the bad weather!

[Globetrotter.uk]

Just thinking of the forthcoming trip to the lakes and the inlaws, now with snow and strong winds it got me thinking (ouch). Imagine for a minute, you have planned to go out for a walk of around 10 miles through woodland and country roads/public footpaths etc. The weather is dull and the forecast is possible snow/rain. Do you still go taking with you the food/stove clothing etc or do you stay put indoors not wanting to risk getting caught stuck miles from home?

 

[Adze]

Just thinking of the forthcoming trip to the lakes and the inlaws, now with snow and strong winds it got me thinking (ouch). Imagine for a minute, you have planned to go out for a walk of around 10 miles through woodland and country roads/public footpaths etc. The weather is dull and the forecast is possible snow/rain. Do you still go taking with you the food/stove clothing etc or do you stay put indoors not wanting to risk getting caught stuck miles from home?

Go for the walk, ensure mobile has a full charge so the Mrs. can come and pick you up from the nearest pub to your location, should you feel like stopping. It's the Lakes afterall... not Siberia

 

[Shewie]

I would and often do (when we have snow).

I tend to stick to well trodden routes though and knowing your limits is key. Of course it's possible to get into bother, especially if you're out on your own and you twist an ankle for example.

Winter walking gives you some of the best experiences I've found, get yourself out there but stay safe.

And remember to take some piccies

 

[The Cumbrian]

And remember to take some piccies

And some biccies.

 

[Globetrotter.uk]

And some biccies.

Is that in case I get lost? a crumb trail. I will have some potassium permangnate to mark the snow if needed or to start a fire

 

[Man of Tanith]

personally i would still go for my walk.
tho i would take a map and compass, extra warm clothes and maybe a tarp/sleeping bag.
i managed to get myself lost in feb walking a very familier route with the dog. the dog took a different turn and i was completely discombobulated

 

[Wild Thing]

Definitely go.

If we all stayed at home when there was the possibility of bad weather, then we would be at home most of the time.

Like has already been said, take a few extras just in case and make sure someone knows your route and expected return time just to be safe.

Winter walking is great fun. You get that feeling that everything is waiting for the right moment to burst out in spring, there is a sense of antisipation in the air and you won't get the same feeling sitting at home by the fire watching the telly.

 

[durulz]

Yup, I'd go as well.
Hasn't stopped me in the past, and wouldn't stop me now.
As someone else said - this isn't Siberia.
Make sure you wear appropriate clothing, have your phone with you and...well, enjoy the weather!

 

[John Fenna]

Yup - I would go too!
Mind you I am an ML holder assessed in the Lakes in the winter.....about 25 years ago....

 

[kINGPIN]

I know how you feel, I am off to the lakes this weekend. I hope I have all the right kit and that the weather aint too harsh on me. Everydays a schoold day as they say.

 

[The Cumbrian]

Go for your walk and enjoy it. The great thing about the Lakes is that there is a network of paths that provide lots of options.
If it turns out that the weather is cold, clear and perfect, get out on the tops and look at all of the little people down below.
If it's a bit iffy, take an interesting route around the valley that you're in.
If it's snowing like mad and blowing a hooley, stick to roads and paths that you know, but still go out. Only you know when you're out of your comfort zone, but as long as you're certain of making your way back you'll be fine.
A two mile walk full of small but interesting things can be as rewarding as a twenty mile walk with one amazing view.
Where are you staying BTW?

Cheers, Michael.

 

[shep]

Walking in this kind of weather is more invigorating than anything. Dress well, take a mobile, enjoy. I took my toddlers out for a picnic in the snow at around -1 last Winter and they loved it. There's some quote about the wrong weather or the wrong clothes. Look it up and tell the inlaws!
And Cumbrian's point about short walks is a very good one too.

 

[SimonM]

Take all the right gear, let someone know where you are going and when you are due back (remember to tell them you are back too)

Stay within your own ability level and enjoy - walking in the snow, can't wait to get out myself!

Simon