Ben Nevis – Looking for a challenge?

Climbing in the UK is a hugely popular activity in the summer months. With over 150,000 people climbing Ben Nevis every year, it might be a good time to ask why you aren’t one of them!

Taking up the challenge of climbing may seem daunting, but it’s a great way to test your fitness and see some of the best views in the country. Working towards a goal, such as climbing a mountain, gives you a great sense of accomplishment and pride once you reach it.  Why not take up climbing as a group. You will get the opportunity to come together with others and work on your teamwork, a great life skill? You could even climb for a good cause; I’m sure everyone knows someone that has run a big race or bungee jumped in the name of charity, and climbing is just another twist on this.

The most well-known mountains in the United Kingdom are Ben Nevis in Scotland, Snowdon in Wales and Scafell Pike in England. These three peaks may seem similar in size, but each has its own difficulties and safety is never guaranteed. A few unfortunate climbers each year are killed or injured whilst attempting to reach the summit, so it’s important to prepare well for any climb.

When you decide you’re ready to conquer your very first mountain, the most important things to remember are research, working on your mental and physical strength and the right equipment. Mountain trail guides will usually give you an idea of their difficulty but to be successful you must be prepared to make the quick decisions necessary if bad weather sets in or someone is injured. All of these things are key to successfully and safely reaching the top.

Many people use climbing as a way to get away from their everyday routine and do something extraordinary and visiting the Lake District and climbing Scafell Pike whilst you’re there is a really fulfilling experience. If you are totally new to all things outdoors then start with the basics. Decathlon have a great range of 2 man tents which would be ideal as a base for a day’s mountaineering. You will also need a sturdy backpack; one that’s big enough to fit in everything you need and stay in one piece, but not so heavy that you’re making things much harder for yourself.

If you’re looking to do something life-changing then check out the Three Peaks Challenge, which involves reaching the summit of Ben Nevis, Snowdon and Scafell Pike in 24 hours. For many climbers and hikers this is the ultimate test of strength and endurance since they will climb at least one of the mountains in the dark!

If any of this has appealed to you, then why not find your nearest peak and organise a trip in the mountains? Reaching the summit after a hard day climbing is a fantastic feeling and an experience which everyone deserves.