Scafell Pike – 978m – 5.2 Miles – 3hrs 05mins
Arrived in the Lake District at dusk on Thursday 8th June with the hope of climbing Scafell Pike, the highest peak in England, the next day.
As with any self respecting campervan driver, you NEVER pay to park, so in keeping with tradition, I parked in a layby, a stones throw from the lake, with a stonking view ready for breakfast.
At 978m, I didn’t make the Mile High but I did reach a mile stone in my life.
I joined the National Trust! Joining the National Trust means you are old, or sensible, either of which I loth to admit but the first month’s membership has already paid for the carpark that I would never have usually paid for had it not been for the impressive bogs.
The car park at the beginning of the trial (CA12 5UN) houses the waterless toilets. You could see all who had gone before, but no smell and no flush!
No ‘soak’ material is added to this waterless toilet and maintenance requirements are very low.
Ventilation is achieved by the use of a passive duct and extraction cowl or by low power fan depending on the site. This results in a completely odour free cubicle under normal operating conditions.
Free tea and coffee for members of the trust, good directions and sign posts to help you on your way.
It was midday sun and the path loose in places but a small stream followed the path which dispersed the trudge trudge trudge.
The summit’s wind was a welcome delight.
On the decent I left the path with its loose rock and kept to grass for my knees.
There is no mobile phone signal so if you need to check Emails then head to either the Ritson Bar, or the Old Sawmill for refreshments and wifi.
The rest of the weekend was spent camping with friends at the Great Langdale Campsite.
The End.
majorloveme 