Security On Steep Ground

Last Saturday Graham & myself ran a security on steep ground day on behalf of the In2venture Outdoor Activity Community. After a hastily re-organised meeting point of the New Barn, rather than Old Dungeon Ghyll - so as to avoid the masses attending the fell race - we headed off to the area of Scout Crag.

 

Team for the day was: Alex, Brendan, Maccy & Emma.


The weather was kind, staying dry and quite mild for the whole day. After the slightly delayed start we got underway a little before eleven and took the short walk from the car park round to the area of Scout Crag, there were plenty of climbers out making the most of the conditions.


The loose scree approach made an ideal start point for the day as we were able to consider movement over such ground and a first craggy outcrop made a good venue for looking at rope assisted climbs and lowers. This was a theme that continued through until lunch time.

After lunch it was time for basic abseils (South African; Angels Wings & Classic) for the folk present this was possibly the highlight of the day. We were able to find an excellent spot with sound anchors; an initial gentle slope; followed by a more challenging short but near vertical step. Everyone had several goes & experimented with all of the abseil techniques.

A look at the Thompson Knot and a few other improvised harness techniques rounded off the time at this location. Descending back off the steep ground provided opportunities for spotting and confidence roping.

We were able to sit outside the hotel at the end of the day for drinks before parting for onward journeys - great day!