K Shoe REPORT, March 4th 2007

WALK REPORT “K” SHOE - APRIL 2007

What a difference from last time, just two years ago was our first spring visit to K Shoe, and I remember looking forward to seeing everything from daffodils to trees bursting into life. No, there was none of that, instead we had rain from every direction. To add insult to injury the taps were dry, the pump had packed up, and the only running water available, was the stream alongside the hut.

This year with improved weather, four of us set off on Saturday for some scrambling………completely new to me. I had been assured, however, that if I wasn’t up to it that there was an alternative route. Just as well I managed because after having trundled through the full length of a long U shape valley where we started the climb I never did see where the other route was!

We scrambled high into a cave, tricky in itself just to get there, but with some help from Richard, I made it up the rock face. Retracing our tracks from the cave we nearly had to abandon someone, when they got stuck between rocks, but with a wiggle here and a wiggle there………they made it too! It was good to try something different I’d do it again. Fantastic views and perfect weather.

Sunday, a drizzly day, was also good as we set off for Keswick. As time passed and conscious of how long the return journey would take, we’d discussed returning part way by boat. At that point a boat appeared out of the blue, onto which we jumped and sailed into the distance. Well it was only a short journey before we landed in Keswick. Time enough to recharge our batteries with chips and beer before our walk back.

A rare event at K Shoe, we even had some member visitors. It was interesting to meet someone whose first visit there was in 1948. He described how it was then and how his father had helped to restore/refurbish the Hut in those distant days. To this day he still has his presence there…..he’s one of the young lads in the group photo on the wall.

Ambiance as always was good, as each evening we gathered around the table for the customary chat and cheese, and, oh yes a drop of Port!

Thanks once again John for your organising skills which are always much appreciated, as I’m sure you’ll all agree. 

Veronica Linsley