Its been many years since I donned hiking boots to do some serious hiking. However one of the wtfimu2n challenges was to either ” visit the Old Bailey or do a Munro”. Having already spent a day many years ago at the London courts as a public observer. Not going to lie the Munro had much more appeal.
Munro Mountains
Packed hubby, dog & me & set off to the Highlands. The promise of fresh air & plenty of whiskey was all the incentive needed. March is possibly a tricky time to go as the weather can be fickle. However we did manage to get out and about.
Munro’s were graded in 1891 by Sir Hugh Munro who was a keen climber. Of the 282 official Munros, Ben Nevis is the highest followed by Ben Macdhui.
To qualify a Munro peak must be at least 3,000 ft (914m) high & separated from neighbouring mountains.
Munro Tops are a slightly different thing as they are mountains that are below 3,000 feet. However there are enthusiastic folk who make it a mission to ‘bag’ as many as possible.
We started by going up Cairn Gorm (6th highest) and if the weather had been better would have done the two in a day but we had to spli the ascents as the conditions were not ideal the first day.
Be prepared & Have a Go
Whenever walking wearing good kit helps as the weather can change quickly. In addition good old map and compass a definite must especially if you lose signal.
It’s difficult to describe the sensation of achievement from climbing to the top of high ground. If you have never experienced it.
If you get offered the chance to climb one take it. Nothing quite like it. Plus if you are fortunate you get fantastic views from the summits.
Three Peaks of Yorkshire
I completed the Three Peaks of Yorkshire many years ago with what was then my new boyfriend. Somehow he had persuaded his naval colleagues to let me come on their expedition. Not sure they were thrilled if I am honest.
Use the link below to find out more about the Three Peaks of Yorkshire
https://www.yorkshiredales.org.uk/things-to-do/get-outdoors/yorkshire-three-peaks/
Given the gibes & grumbles I was determined to ‘keep up with the boys’. This included downing a pint or two in the pub at lunch time plus taking my turn carrying the rucksack.
The beer was strong & I don’t really remember the third hill much. We were all to return to the cafe. The bliss of sitting somewhere warm eating toasted tea cakes & massaging aching muscles.
Still one of the group went on to be our best man so think we were forgiven. 30 years later & still trekking up a mountain together.
Three Peaks in 24 Hours
Timing wise we did quite respectable times of 3 hours for Cairn Gorm & 5.5 for Ben Macdhui. Which means that I now have a bench mark for trying to do the three in 24 hours option.
The rather tougher ‘Three Peaks’ in 24 hours. This challenge involves walking up & down’ Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike & Snowdon.
To achieve this you need a lot of preparation. Almost certainly a backup team as it involves driving between the different mountains. Ideally to complete this successfully & safely I would enrol on a charity event. Not only would you have company but possibly a training scheme too.
These mountains are high & not without danger so it would make sense to prepare properly.
A link to more info about Three Peak Challenges