2 days
Spend two days exploring the heart of the Lake District on this guided wild camping adventure centred around Helvellyn, one of England’s most iconic mountains.
Carrying everything you need for the weekend, you'll journey through classic Lakeland scenery, climb high mountain ridges, and spend a night under canvas in a carefully chosen wild camp location. Along the way you'll learn practical skills for lightweight backpacking, campcraft and mountain travel, while enjoying some of the finest views in the National Park.
The route takes in the summit of Helvellyn, with Striding Edge as an option on the way up for anyone who fancies it and a gentler line for anyone who doesn't. With small group sizes and an experienced Mountain Leader, it works as a first proper mountain wild camp or as a fully guided weekend for walkers who already know the fells.
Expect spectacular scenery, rewarding mountain walking, a night beneath the stars, and the unique satisfaction that comes from carrying your home on your back and sleeping high in the fells.
Michael Curry
With over 40 years in the field, Michael is a qualified Mountain Leader and Rock Climbing Instructor with deep experience in technical climbing, navigation, expedition logistics, and outdoor education. His guiding has taken him across Europe's mountain regions, into the Canadian backcountry and on expeditions in the Himalayas, and he brings that international breadth to every trip he leads for GBAC. He is known for calm authority, technical precision, and a genuine enthusiasm for helping people grow in the mountains.
<p> No. This trip is suitable for walkers who are new to wild camping. Your Mountain Leader will provide guidance on campcraft, equipment, route planning and living comfortably in the hills throughout the weekend. </p>
You should be comfortable walking for two full days on mountain terrain while carrying a loaded backpack. The route includes steep ascents and descents, rough ground and variable weather conditions.
Most participants carry between 12–18kg depending on their equipment, food and water. We can provide advice before the trip to help you keep your pack weight manageable.
Yes. Backpacking equipment hire is available, including tents, sleeping mats and sleeping bags. Just add our gear bundle to your cart when booking.
Wild camp locations are chosen by your Mountain Leader based on weather, ground conditions and the needs of the group. We use discreet, low-impact campsites in accordance with responsible wild camping practices.
Mountain weather can be highly changeable and experiencing a range of conditions is part of the adventure. Routes may be adjusted to suit conditions, but trips will normally proceed unless the weather creates an unacceptable safety risk.
No. Participants are responsible for bringing their own food, snacks and drinks for the duration of the trip. Guidance will be provided before the event to help with meal planning.
Only if you want to. It's the classic way onto Helvellyn and most people who come on this trip are here for it — a Grade 1 scramble along a narrow ridge with big views down either side. But it's genuinely optional. There's a path running just below the crest if you'd rather have the ridge without the top of it, and if you'd sooner not be up there at all, your guide will take you up by another route and you'll meet the rest of the group on the summit. Tell him on the morning, or on the day if you change your mind. Conditions also get a say — high wind or wet rock and he'll make the call for everyone.
Rent the kit you need. From £45.Four-season tent, −12°C sleep system, mat, liner & pillow — cleaned, packed and ready. Just add it to your cart during checkout.See what's included →