Guiding a group of 17 over the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge for Large Outdoors with one other instructor.
As with any large group we had a pep talk to begin with around pacing for the day, regular breaks and to find out about cohesion of the group. The route started on Ingleborough clockwise.
As expected there was one person who had never been out in such terrain and was completely unprepared. She ended up coming off but after Whernside.
- you take part in the planning and leadership. Again, planning with the other guide and regular communication and leadership with the clients.
- navigation skills are required. Not really necessary on this route in clear hot conditions but having an eye out on the route was essential. Especially on Ingleborough.
- experience must be in terrain appropriate to the scheme
- knowledge is increased and skills practised. More experience of large groups and dealing with people dropping off. It was harder with only 2 guides as we could only do one split.
- attention is paid to safety. Especially coming down the steps off Ingleborough and the South side of Pen y Ghent.
- four hours or more journey time. 14 hours.
- adverse weather conditions may be encountered. Late summer heatwave!
Area :
South Yorkshire Dales
Most of the larger southern dales (e.g. Ribblesdale, Malhamdale and Airedale, Wharfedale and Nidderdale) run roughly parallel from north to south. Includes the Three Peaks, Malham and Langstrothdale/Wharfdale.
