In reply to James58t:
> Does anyone know what the route up via Gavel Neese is like ? Looking at maps and photos it looks like you could probably continue straight up all the way to the summit over or round White Napes instead of taking the footpath left towards Beck Head - but again I can't see from photos if that would end up being to dangerous.
I remember once charging straight up Gavel Neese when I was young (i.e. early 20s) because it was such a good line, then doing it about 25 years later and finding it hell on earth (well, not
quite as bad as Hell Gate to the right). I also remember coming down it once very easily and pleasantly on another occasion when I was young, and then again doing the same about 25 years later and finding it really knackering on legs/knees. I guess it all depends how fit and supple you are
I think, btw (IIRC) you traverse left below the steeper ground high up, then back right to Westmorland's Ledge.
PS. Same comments apply to going straight up the attractive looking spur of Lingmell from Wasdale Head campsite.
Post edited at 20:38