Winter is back again in the Peak District hills and valleys. For how long we shall have to see. I was in two minds all week over how i shall spend this day off.
There was a mini mountain marathon in the park this Sunday. Very tempting. A friend was up in Scotland climbing around the Ballater area, winter climbing conditions were looking promising. Or shall i head to Snowdonia or the Lake District for a bigger mountain day? and a bigger drive/earlier rise out of bed.
Given the weather forecast and not wanting a big day out i decided to stay local and headed over the Snake pass in the snow to the Ladybower area for a walk.
As the snow was falling fast this morning keeping to a low level route was advisable.
The snow had obviously put a lot of people off visiting Ladybower today except a few hardy walkers, mountain bikers and a couple of road runners.
It was a real pleasure to see an area usually so busy with people in quieter times. I avoid this valley in summer simply because of its over popularity. Even though i’ve been coming to this areas for twenty plus years, the winter conditions of snow and frost change the landscape so you are kept interested and surprised.
Throughout the year the changes in weather and seasons do keep your regularly visited countryside spots refreshing to explore. Watching the changes in the landscape over time renews your passion for an area. Oh, and the ability to stretch your legs and benefit from the exercise makes tea time more appealing. Speaking of which…
Matt Dawson