Not as forecast.

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The forecast for today suggested that there would be some good views due to a high pressure system over the country. With this in mind we headed for Seathwaite in Borrowdale to climb Scafell Pike. The temperature was below 0 when we pulled up at the parking spot and the higher fells had a covering of snow.
We made good time up Grains Gill but by the time we reached the top the cloud base had dropped and the visibility was poor. It would remain like this for the remainder of the day.
Underfoot conditions became more wintry as we climbed towards Esk Hause and care was needed. As we broke off from the main Scafell Pike path to climb Great End we decided to put the   Microspikes on so that we could move more quickly and safely. In the conditions they were great and we were soon on the summit enjoying a hot flask and some tea loaf.
From a Great End to Scafell Pike the snow cover was good and this made up for the disappointing visibility. The summit of the 'Pike' wasn't too busy so we had a bagel there before heading for Lingmell - our last top of the day. We met some groups on this section  but overall it was quiet and we had the summit to ourselves.
We descended to Styhead along the Corridor route and had a short break at the stretcher box before heading down to the car, Keswick and home. A good winters day despite the inaccurate forecast.

On the slopes of Great End.


Great End summit.


The sun threatens to appear on route to Scafell Pike.


Our first 'winter day' of 2013/14.


Climbing up from Broad Crag col.


A Scot on the very top of England in Scottish conditions. 


Lingmell summit cairn.


The 'Bad Step' on the Corridor Route.


Looking back to Scafell Pike and Lingmell.


Dropping back into Borrowdale.



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