Snow, sun, graupel (hail) wind and many minus degrees on our one day winter skills course on Helvellyn today. Some would say the complete winter weather package!
We were joined by Ian today who is a keen summer hillwalker looking to get a taste of what winter walking is all about. Well the day certainly didn't disappoint! Under sunshine we ascended to Red Tarn but once on Swirral Edge squally conditions arrived and we were being beaten by hail and the wind was making it feel at least minus 10-15. The summit of Helvellyn was surprisingly calm but as we descended Swirral Edge we had to 'batten down then hatches' and limit any skin exposure to the biting wind.
Fortunately as we got near the tarn the squall had passed and it was back to sunshine and blue skies for our descent.
Full technical winter kit very much required as well as winter accessories such as goggles, buff / balaclava and quality gloves as it really is brassic up there! #LivefortheNow @ Helvellyn
