A party of eight gathered on a very chilly morning and left Upper Booth for Jacob’s Ladder. We were soon much warmer after the steep climb, but on reaching the higher ground on Kinder Low the bitter north easterly wind ensured we did not linger too long to admire the far reaching views over Manchester and westwards towards Buxton. Someone suggested the wind-chill made the temperature feel like minus double figures!
We reached Kinder Downfall, a popular focal point for walkers on such a glorious day. The fall was entirely frozen, and climbers were enjoying the winter conditions. We negotiated the frozen river and pressed on, it being too cold to stop for refreshments. Descending from Sandy Heys we found some shelter from the wind and under a clear blue sky we took our first lunch stop, overlooking Kinder Reservoir. An hour later and having skirted the reservoir we sheltered against a wall and ‘sunbathed’ whilst we had our second lunch. A long and gradual climb followed to bring us to the Oaken Clough path, with good views of South Head and Mount Famine across the valley. The cold wind increased as we ascended to Edale Cross. We then made the final descent of Jacob’s Ladder to Upper Booth, and back to our starting point.
11.5 miles on a superb winter’s day. Thanks to all for your company.
Sean.
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