You might think we are experienced walkers by now. However there is still much to learn and we missed our guide which was our first mistake. All colour coordinated ready to show off our new clothes and equipment mainly purchased from “Snow and Rock in Didsbury’. we felt confident knowing what we were doing. Not planning to miss our guide we had no map – mistake number 2! Started at a good point from the Old Dungeon Ghyll and walked for what seemed like hours – all uphill at varying degrees. Fortunately for us (and unfortunately too) – we met some really interesting people who were chatty and had maps – thank you so much if you read my blog and know who you are. We managed picnicking, resting and walking and made good time to the top of Stickle Pike. Wow – what a view See pictures – Bella our beautiful golden retriever was pooped (we were too – but we think we hid it better!)

Thinking we were terrifc walkers and climbers now (even my bio gel nails stood the climbing throughout the day – hooray for nail technology), anyway our adventurous son wanted to follow in the footstps of other walkers that day and climb the other two little peaks near us – one of which being Harrison Stickle at 2403 ft. This is when our greatest part of the adventure started. Once climbed and catching our breath, a chatty man came to talk to us and advised us the most picturesque route down. Unfortunately – we (all three of us)  had most obviously completely misunderstood his directions as we ventured down a path which turned into what could only be called a scree – too far down it before we realised – and the outcome was a slow but deliberate climb (with remarkably calm son who kept his head and demonstrated such leadership skills I was amazed – well done x). Bella was calm but showed her laid back character by sitting, and looking as if to say “you are joking right!”. (One of my favourite films is “Up” where the dogs wear collars and their thoughts are vocalised – that would have been funny.) I really didn’t think dogs showed such facial expressions but hers were brilliant and allowed us to retain our humour and she was so patient with us. We finally reached the bottom of the scree and enjoyed the beautiful views of Stickle Tarn from a safe elevation. We walked around the Tarn and down the path of the waterfall to New Dungeon Ghyll.

I cannot remember exactly how many times we crossed the waterfall following the path, what I do know if that Bella did not really like crossing the waterfall and my coaxing her across the firsst time di nothing to ease her comfort. It was only when I took to demonstrating how easy it was to get out once you had fallen in that she seemed much more comfortable with the concept of getting wet. She usuall goes in water given half a chance – so was the only being in the party not concerned with my own sudden dip! I think she was more confused by the fact that I didn’t seem to shake all the water off as she does.

Anyway, you have probably worked it out by now that my urge to swim was involuntary rather than a chosen approach. Can I also add here that it is not a tactic I would recommend either for encouraging an animal across or to just show off. Aside of the fact that I banged myself in a few places and was really wet (I went in completely – funny for others!), it is not the neatest of ways to test the effectiveness of waterproof equipment. but for those of you who are interest in the test – wicking material is great – that dried and I felt really comfortable where it touched my skin, however, my underwear and my fleecy lined trousers held the water and I squelched, rather than walked down the rest of the waterfall – and needless to say colour coordination may look ok but you feel a bit of a mess wet through – and the hair style – just don’t even go there (but the nails were fine!) My kit was all dry when I opened my rucksack and even the sweets in my pocket were ok – had to throw away the tissues though.

The day ended beautifully when we landed (or crawled) to the table at 8 p.m. (from a 9.30 a.m. start) the New Dungeon Ghyll and stayed there to eat our well earned evening meal.

Some of you may think it was a short trek, some may think we were foolhardy in our antics and we know that we certainly had not one but two very lucky escapes. There are a few bits of advice I would recommend you take note of. the most obvious ones being choose your route carefully and be careful who you listen to – or how you listen! most picturesque isn’t always most practical – watch your footing when crossing waterfalls and if you have a dog with you – follow their instincts  (they are pretty good) or their facial expressions!

We will not go the same route again, however we all have a wonderful day to remember – and we are better prepared for the Inca Trail.

If you enjoyed reading this, please visit our websites and send a donation to one of our charities.

SHAP support young people who are homeless with not just accommodation but support through difficult circumstances providing them with emotional and practical support in order that they can live independently.
http://www.justgiving.com/LKayINCA2011

Winston’s Wish help children and families who suffer bereavement in coming to terms with their grief. The work they do extends to training professionals such as teachers who work with children who may be bereaved to deal with children and families.
http://www.justgiving.com/LKayINCA2011WW

St Ann’s Hospice improve the quality of life for the terminally ill and their families, providing a full range of support in order to make life more comfortable and bearable for all concerned.     http://www.justgiving.com/CKayINCA2011StAnns

Please feel free to add comments or supporting messages.