Now you may also be thinking, what is a scramble Emily so let me explain, in hiking terminology, a ‘scramble’ refers to a more technical and challenging type of terrain that requires the use of both hands and feet for balance and support. Unlike straightforward hiking, scrambling involves ascending or traversing steep, rocky slopes where the hiker needs to engage in basic climbing techniques, but typically without the need for specialised climbing equipment like ropes and harnesses – definitely one for the adrenaline seekers and to get the blood pumping. 

Scrambling is often classified into different grades or levels of difficulty, with Grade 1 being the easiest and involving minimal exposure to risk, while higher grades, Grade 2 or Grade 3 may require more advanced skills and present greater hazards and may require a safety helmet or rope. It's an adventurous blend of hiking and rock climbing that demands good route-finding abilities, physical agility, and a cautious approach to safety. 

 Let me talk you through some of my favourites. 

Why It's a Good Hike: 

1. Scrambling Experience: It offers a mix of Grade 2 and Grade 3 scrambling, making it a great stepping stone for those looking to advance their scrambling skills. 
2. Breathtaking Views: The route provides stunning views over the Helvellyn range and the surrounding fells. 
3. Alpine Feel: The ridge has an alpine feel with dramatic exposure, giving a sense of adventure and accomplishment. 
4. Escape Routes: There are multiple escape routes, so if you find the scrambling too challenging, you can opt for easier paths. 

Where to Park: 

You have two main parking options: 

Patterdale Hotel: Park opposite the hotel. This is a convenient starting point. 

Glenridding Car Park: Located next to the Information Centre in Glenridding. This is another good option with ample parking. 

Route: 

1. Start at Grisedale Bridge: Head up the lane into Grisedale. 
2. Elmhow Plantation: After about 1 km, pass through a gate and follow the farm road. Continue past farm buildings and holiday cottages until you reach Elmhow Plantation. 
3. Blind Cove: Turn left at the top of the wall and cross the bed of the beck. Follow the Elmhow Zigzags until you reach Blind Cove. 
4. Scree Slopes: Cross a couple of bouldery scree lines and pick your way up the scree slope to the base of the ridge. 
5. Pinnacle Ridge: Start up the spiky blocks on the right edge of the buttress. The scrambling improves as you progress up the ridge. 
6. Crux Corner: The crux corner is a steep section that can be bypassed if needed. For extra safety, it’s recommended to rope up for this part. 
7. Summit: Continue along the ridge to the summit of St Sunday Crag. From there, you can extend your hike by ascending Fairfield via Cofa Pike and descending via Dovedale. 

For this hike I wore my ACAI ‘stride shorts’ they were the perfect balance of flexibility and comfort for this type of hike. Make sure you take lots of snacks and water – essential in any adrenaline environment.  

Why It's a Good Hike: 

1. Entry level scrambling: Wild Boar Clough offers a relatively easy scramble, making it accessible for beginners or those looking for a less challenging adventure. 
2. Scenic Views: The trail provides beautiful views of the surrounding hills and valleys, especially as you ascend towards Bleaklow Head.  
3. Variety of Terrain: The route includes rocky riverbeds, stream crossings, and boggy sections, offering a diverse hiking experience.  
4. Historical Interest: You'll pass by the B29 Superfortress crash site and memorial, adding an element of historical intrigue to your hike. 

Where to Park: 

Torside Reservoir Car Park: This is the recommended starting point. The car park is located along the Longdendale Valley, providing ample parking space. 

Route: 

1. Start at Torside Reservoir Car Park: Begin by heading north-east along the Longdendale Trail. 
2. Enter Woodland: After about 200 meters, you'll enter some trees. Leave the main trail by wooden steps on the right up the embankment.  
3. Follow the Path: Continue through the woodland towards the lower part of Wild Boar Clough.  
4. Ascend Wild Boar Clough: Follow the path up the clough, navigating rocky sections and stream crossings. Keep an eye out for good handholds and dry spots. 
5. Reach Bleaklow Head: Continue ascending until you reach Bleaklow Head, enjoying the stunning views along the way.  
6. Descent via Torside Clough: After reaching the summit, descend via Torside Clough. Follow the path along the top of the gully, taking in the picturesque views of the Longdendale reservoirs.  
7. Return to Car Park: Follow the path back to the Longdendale Trail and continue to the Torside Reservoir Car Park. 

The last time I did this hike it was cold and misty conditions in November so I chose my ACAI essentials – Black Cloud Jacket and Elevation Pants. The lightweight cloud jacket is perfect for a cosy layer on the go. I love the fact that it is shower resistant, so when we approach some of the wet parts I didn’t have to change! The elevation pants are snagproof, shower resistant and quick drying, the perfect combination of comfort and durability for scrambling! 

Why It's a Good Hike: 

1. Iconic Scramble: Striding Edge is one of the most famous Grade 1 scrambles in the Lake District, offering a thrilling and memorable experience. 
2. Stunning Views: The route provides breathtaking views over Red Tarn, Ullswater, and the surrounding fells. 
3. Sense of Achievement: Successfully navigating the ridge and reaching the summit of Helvellyn (950m), the third-highest peak in England, gives a great sense of accomplishment. 
4. Variety of Challenges: The scramble includes a mix of straightforward sections and a few more challenging moves, making it suitable for experienced hikers. 

Where to Park: 

Glenridding Car Park: Located in the village of Glenridding, adjacent to the Ullswater Information Centre. This is the most convenient starting point. 

Route: 

1. Start at Glenridding: Begin by heading up Mires Beck via the 'Hole in the Wall' stile. 
2. Ascend Mires Beck: Follow the path as it steadily climbs, leading you to the base of Striding Edge. 
3. Begin Striding Edge: The ridge starts with easier sections, gradually becoming more challenging. You can choose to stay on the ridge or take a slightly easier path on the right. 
4. Crux Move: There is a short, unavoidable downclimb towards the end of the ridge. Take your time and stay calm. 
5. Reach the Summit: Continue along the ridge to the summit of Helvellyn. Enjoy the panoramic views and the sense of achievement. 
6. Descent via Swirral Edge: For a complete horseshoe route, descend via Swirral Edge, which is generally considered easier but still involves scrambling. 
7. Return to Glenridding: Follow the path back down Mires Beck to Glenridding. 

For this scramble I again, wore my ACAI ‘stride shorts’ I love the flexibility and the ‘made for moving’ material. The material used is anti-bacterial and anti-odour – perfect for those long, hot, sweats days in the mountains!