Lots of campervan trips so far this year but only one backpacking trip so far.
Been struggling with ankle pain after it was replaced a couple of years ago - was better than went downhill again. Hoping to get out again later this week. Not ready to give up yet! How about everyone else? Not been on UKCS for a good while - been quiet in this section so not missed much!
Had a Scottish trip planned for this month but ended up getting an appendectomy and now have to go for a colonoscopy. Had to cancel and to tell you the truth my fitness has evaporated and am very tired all the time.
I will see if I can get out in June if all goes well. Even an easy overnighter up the hills would be good.
Quote: Originally posted by Ewen c on 18/5/2023
Had a Scottish trip planned for this month but ended up getting an appendectomy and now have to go for a colonoscopy. Had to cancel and to tell you the truth my fitness has evaporated and am very tired all the time.
I will see if I can get out in June if all goes well. Even an easy overnighter up the hills would be good.
Good luck getting back into shape & back out again. I have a colonoscopy every five years. Fascinating to watch on the monitor!
Quote: Originally posted by TimCESmith on 18/5/2023
It doesn’t count as backpacking but I’ve done a couple of bicycle camping trips so far this year, though I’m usually a fully loaded “family” camper
Was a great trip but I almost decided I’m too old for this sort of caper: Cornwall to hilly for my old legs / knees for now. Must do some more!
That counts in my book! I'm hoping to get some bike trips in this year too.
Got away for a couple of days - not used to the heat! My new orthotics worked well but after 6 months my midsoles are shot on my lightweight boots. Not built to take my 100kg & gait I reckon. Will be going for a resole upgrade soon. Had that successfully done on my winter boots recently.
My 37 year old rucsac still going strong this weekend. I've replaced it 5 times! Non of the replacements last long before I decide to go back to my old pack. I'll be sticking with it.
Just in the process of sorting my trip to walk the Leeds Liverpool canal. A canal tour maybe a good idea for your ankle. Canal and rivers trust have done extensive work on some routes over the years. Plenty of pubs to get ankle medicine too
------------- Martin
Born again Camper.
Force 10 Nitro 200+
Vango F10 Xenon UL 2 Tent
Wild Country Zephyros 1
For more flat walking or cycling, try the John Muir Way coast to coast (Dunbar to Helensburgh, c.160 miles, minor hills en route). Or walk / cycle the shorter route along the Forth & Clyde and Union Canal towpaths; worth it for the Falkirk Wheel & The Kelpies. Maps etc https://www.walkhighlands.co.uk/forth-clyde-union-canal.shtml
Scottish access legislation covers you for responsible wild camping because you’re travelling under your own steam & carrying your gear. Though I wouldn’t pitch up in Clydebank - I used to work near the canal & the locals got up to some interesting capers at lunchtime, not somewhere to be at night.
PS - South Scotland has been blissfully devoid of midges this year because of the long dry spell: hot spots as expected (eg Glencoe, west coast). Handy map at the Smidge sponsored app https://www.smidgeup.com/midge-forecast/
I'm off for a 2 day bike tour Hadrian Wall way in the next few weeks & I have a 6 day backpack in the highlands coming up in October. Mostly glens so nice & easy.
Canals are a favourite destination in the campervan this year. Just been in the Peak District & walked along part of the Cromford Canal.
Aye - well stocked up on Smidge for our upcoming van trip in late September if we catch the tail end of the midges plus a couple of zone protection devices which have worked well for us.
Amazing family weekend with old steam engines, classic car displays, market stalls, and full catering and bar. And camping on site - Save £25 by booking in advance.