Sharp Edge, Best Scramble, Worst Scramble!

by Frankly Breck, Newcastle

I have experienced the two extremes of sharp edge.,First time, very misty, but somehow the rock was very grippy and friendly to be on. We followed the crest of the ridge all the way - found the natural groove in the face for the final climb to the top, it was a real rush. Second time we went back in November - the rock froze hands (through gloves) so fingers could not grip, rock was very very greasy, and anyone who has been up sharp edge will know that this spells serious danger, but we went on planning to take it really really slow and cautious. I nearly slipped off at one point - scariest scramble I have done as of yet. I certainly got back some of the respect I had perhaps unfortunately lost by doing prior scrambles (and hopefully I will never lose it again.)If I can give one piece of advice about sharp edge then it is this:
STICK TO THE TOP OF THE RIDGE.There is a path to the right which looks friendly and may be mistaken for an equivalent to the walkers path at the side of Striding Edge - but this is a very different beast indeed. I have walked a portion of the path and it is a lot more hazardous than the ridge top, and i think it is true when they say most people fall off trying to regain the top of the ridge from that path - I scrambled the side to regain the ridge myself and it was not a pleasant experience! Stick to the top and have fun!

“For the best selection of walks that include Sharp Edge AND an alternative to Sharp Edge if you or members of your party do not fancy it see Walking along Sharp Edge, Blencathra (or Saddleback) in the Lake District National Park

For another view of 'The Sharp Edge Experience' see Sharp Edge”

Mike (Editor)

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