Family-Friendly Mountain Adventures: Tips & Routes
With Global Intergenerational Week (GIW) just around the corner, we thought it would be a good time to explore family-friendly adventures on and around our three favourite UK mountains – Scafell Pike, Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) and Ben Nevis. Running from the 24th to the 30th of April, Global Intergenerational Week seeks to promote the importance of cross-generational relationships and bring the young, old and those somewhere in between together.
Today, families live further apart and we tend to have less spare time to spend with our loved ones. We know it’s tricky getting the whole family together, and that’s why we feel GIW is such a great excuse to do so. It’s a clear recognition that this time and those relationships are important. And what better place to do so than in the great outdoors!
Spending time outdoors with the family is special
Spending time outdoors with the family is valuable because it’s rare. But there are plenty of other reasons it’s a great idea too.
1. It’s physically and mentally healthy
Endless studies have shown that spending more time outside in nature is physically and mentally beneficial. Exposure to green spaces has been linked to better sleep, lower blood pressure, and reduced risk of chronic disease (Harvard). It also promotes mental restoration, increases positive emotions and decreases anxiety (Harvard). Similarly, intergenerational family experiences are linked to improved social skills, greater self-confidence and a stronger sense of self-identity (UniversityHealth).
2. It’s quality time spent together
In everyday life, we’re surrounded by distractions. Whether it’s screen time or work worries, there’s always something tugging at our attention. But when you head outside, that all falls away. There’s just you, your family and some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in the UK. It’s that rarest of things – quality time spent with those you love the most.
3. It’s an opportunity to pass on knowledge
The range of knowledge and interests we all hold within us is amazing. Who knew Grandad could tell a song thrush from a mistle thrush? Or that mum can recount the myths and legends of the Mabinogion and place them in the Eryri (Snowdonia) landscape? When you’re out walking and talking, these things tend to emerge naturally in our conversations, and skills and knowledge are shared between the generations.
4. It’s a lot of fun!
Finally, hitting the trails with all the family is just a lot of fun. For a lot of people, it’s something completely different. A chance to head to the highest point in the country or explore an ancient woodland. And that’s pretty hard to beat.
Family adventures in the Lake District, Eryri and Scottish Highlands
So, if you’re looking for a family friendly outdoor adventure in one of the three areas we operate in, we’ve got some recommendations. As well as an intro to each of the guided walks we run on Scafell Pike, Yr Wyddfa and Ben Nevis, we’ve thrown in an extra option for each destination so you’ve got something else to check out in the local area.
Scafell Pike Guided Walks
If you’re in the Lake District, our Scafell Pike Guided Walks are the perfect way to experience England’s highest mountain and enjoy breathtaking views over the surrounding Lake District. Led by a qualified guide with an intimate knowledge of the mountain, our private group walks are tailored to meet the needs of your group and ensure the best possible day out. We also offer open walks from spring through to autumn if you and any of your friends or family want to join a larger group.
Grizedale Forest
Set between Windermere and Coniston, Grizedale is part walking route and part outdoor art gallery. Featuring around 80 installations, some of which nature is gradually reclaiming, this fantastic forest is a great way to get the whole family talking about art, the natural environment and how the two interact. It’s also just an absolutely cracking walk!
Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) Guided Walks
If you’re heading to Eryri (Snowdonia), there’s no better adventure to be had than climbing Yr Wyddfa. The Llanberis Path ensures the entire family can make it to the summit or, if you’re experienced walkers, you can check out one of the other more challenging paths. If you get in touch with the Climb Snowdon team, we’ll be able to help you make an informed decision about which is the best path for your group and tailor the experience accordingly.
As in the Lake District, Climb Snowdon runs both private guided walks and open days, so you can keep it intimate or head out with a larger group.
Aber Falls
While you’re in the area, why not check out one of Eryri’s most dramatic waterfalls, Aber Falls? The falls are easily accessible via a family-friendly 4.5 km path. The out-and-back route will take most people around an hour to complete, and the impressive sight of the water tumbling 120 ft as it makes its way to the Menai Straits is magical.
Ben Nevis Guided Walks
Chosen the Scottish Highlands for your family’s outdoor adventure? Then you should definitely consider heading to the top of the UK’s highest mountain. A fantastic achievement for walkers of all ages, you’ll feel on top of the world (figuratively and literally) when you reach the summit.
Sign up for either a private Ben Nevis guided walk or one of our open days and enjoy a fantastic day out with one of our qualified mountain leaders.
Ben Nevis Mountain Biking
If you’re into mountain biking and want to sample some of the finest trails in Scotland, the Nevis Range Mountain Experience is a great shout. Featuring trails for all the family, from green-graded routes for really young riders to flowy blues and white-knuckle blacks, it’s a top opportunity to strap on your helmets and have some fun on two wheels.
Family adventures with Climb Scafell Pike
Whether you’re getting together with your family for Global Intergenerational Week or planning to meet up later in the year, we would love the privilege of guiding you up Scafell Pike. As well as allowing for valuable family time, it’s a chance to get out into one of the most spectacular landscapes in the UK and do something completely different. And our qualified mountain leaders ensure you get the most from the experience. Enjoy your family adventures, everyone!