Walking & Hiking (Cader Idris)

skyblueheroes · 05-02-2006, 18:19

I'm off up Cader Idris at the end of Feb with my old man and PA.

But, I've never been on a long walk or hike before and after some pointers on what to take and wear etc....

We know the surrounding area well, but new to walking those hills. But another person in the party is a seasoned walker up Cader Idris. I'm pretty fit and at 28 should be able to cope with the physical side of things, but its just what to wear and take with me.

Any tips or ideas ?

tick · 05-02-2006, 18:23

Take lots to drink water proof clothes a compass and map .
Should be fine with that
oh good boots
important to keep your self warm

marky · 05-02-2006, 18:41

Sturdy Boots,
Dont wear jeans(they hold water like a sponge),
wear plenty of thin layers of clothing rather than 1 thick jumper,
And be very carefull that you dont sweat to much, hyperthermia can hit very quickly if you are damp.
You will need the usual survival bag, warm drink in a flask etc,
But most of all enjoy yourself, a properly planned hike can be a lot of fun.

---------- Post added at 18:41 ---------- Previous post was at 18:30 ----------

More info here
I hope you enjoy the trip

Halcyon · 05-02-2006, 18:42

Good walking boots are essential and it is important you get these now so that you have time to wear them in and get used to walking in them.

Start by going out on walks at the weekend to get you ready for bigger walks and make sure you have a waterproof but breathable coat too.
If you head down to a place such as Blacks, Millets, or any outdoor store they should help you out.

Dried fruit such as dried apricots, sultana's, dried pineapple is worth taking with you too. It gives you instant energy boosts.
You will also need a good pair of thick socks.

driver_problems · 05-02-2006, 18:51

Quote:

Originally Posted by skyblueheroes

I'm off up Cader Idris at the end of Feb with my old man and PA.

But, I've never been on a long walk or hike before and after some pointers on what to take and wear etc....

We know the surrounding area well, but new to walking those hills. But another person in the party is a seasoned walker up Cader Idris. I'm pretty fit and at 28 should be able to cope with the physical side of things, but its just what to wear and take with me.

Any tips or ideas ?

there's a small shelter at the top of Cadair Idris where you can take refuge from bad weather - some people stay in it overnight

altis · 05-02-2006, 19:04

Avoid Cyfrwy Arete (see pic)! This is one of the more difficult ways up. It's in many books as a scramble but, unless you're suicidal, it's more of a rock climb really.

As for gear, well I never go out without:
map, compass, whistle, penknife, headtorch, first aid kit incl plasters and pain killers, survival blanket, food, water, rucksack.

As for clothing, well it depends on the season, but remember we can get all sorts of weather and it can change very quickly. You need to be prepared for just about anything. Also remember that you lose 1 degree celcius for every 100m of height you gain. Cader is also pretty exposed so you'll catch any wind going too.

In winter I might take:
balaclava, hat, gloves, waterproof jacket and trousers, lighter windproof jacket, thermals, fleece, leggings and stout boots.

Remember you'll be working quite hard and will work up a sweat. Look out for clothes that breathe - stuff like GoreTex for waterproofs and polypropelene for the base and mid layers. Avoid cotton (incl jeans) at all costs. It just absorbs and holds moisture and you'll soon feel cold. Try to build up your clothing with lots of layers so that you can mix and match. Try to stay at an even temperature. If you start feeling warm then take a layer off or you'll soon be damp and then get cold again.

Check out some of the outdoor shops:
http://www.fieldandtrek.com/
http://www.cotswoldoutdoor.com/
http://www.outside.co.uk/
http://www.ellis-brigham.com/
http://www.rockrun.com/
http://www.facewest.co.uk/
http://www.cheaptents.com/

Finally, have fun! There's nothing quite like being out on a mountain.

bopdude · 05-02-2006, 19:15

Can't add much to whats already been said, except, watch out for ledges / cliffs, the winds up there can be strong enough to blow you over, literally.

Brin · 05-02-2006, 20:04

The first 20 minutes or so from the bottom of cader idris is a real killer if you are not that fit. Take it easy and you will really enjoy the walk if you push yourself too much you just get sweaty, wet and very unconfortable. The climb to the very top should also be taken with care if the weather is unsettled as the visibility can become poor very quickly and as others have said wear the right clothes and footwear. Ive done this walk about 5-6 times now and still marvel at the fantastic scenery and the lake and cant wait to get back there in a few months time good luck and enjoy the outing!

driver_problems · 05-02-2006, 21:44

I always thought that the lake reminded me of one of the james bond films where they have the secret base under it (you only live twice?), but I did a bit of googling and it does not seem to be the case from what I can gather

skyblueheroes · 05-02-2006, 23:35

Cheers all. Will have look at links tomorrow.

skyblueheroes · 27-02-2006, 07:33

Okay, did it yesterday. Thanks for all replies - it was superb.

2hrs 10mins up and about 3hrs 10mins down. We had perfect conditions (dry and clear) with some snow on top. The wind chill at the top took it down to about -10 or -15 at the top. Am I right in thinking Cader is the 4th highest peak in the UK ?

Walk was followed by a lovely Lamb Shank and a couple of pints in the local at the bottom - fantastic

Couple of pics..................

Jon M · 27-02-2006, 08:20

Aaah, Cader... I've been up there a few times... (both routes).
Last time I did it, I was racing a competitive fell runner (up the short route and down the long one), not a particularly taxing peak, but worth it nonetheless.

Great pictures

altis · 27-02-2006, 09:06

Well done! I was up Whernside yesterday and it was pretty chilly on the top. Not great weather for your first big trip but it sounds like you enjoyed it anyway.

There are 14 welsh peaks over 3000' and they are all quite close together but some way away in Snowdonia. As a chalenge, some people try to walk all of these in 24 hours. I think that, at 893m, Cader is the next highest. Luckily for them, this falls just below the 3000' contour.

skyblueheroes · 27-02-2006, 09:20

There is a plaque at the top about the winner of the Cader race. Got from Dollgelau to the peak and back again in 1hr 25mins. Trouble is he rocked climed it the next day and fell to his death.

Really enjoyed it. The guys I went with do it every year so may do it again.

**Russ** · 27-02-2006, 09:26

Stunning views there