Mick Fowler and Victor Saunders have made the first ascent of Yawash Sar in the Karakoram.40 years after their first trip to Pakistan, Fowler and Saunders returned to the country and climbed the north west face of the 6,258m peak, reaching the summit during a seven-day outing from base camp. The expedition was supported by Berghaus and the two climbers used kit from the brands high performance Extrem range.The line taken by the veteran pair on the north west faceYawash Sar is the highest and most spectacular peak in the Khunjerab sub-range of the Karakoram range. Fowler and Saunders agree that it could justifiably be called the Matterhorn of the Khunjerab. In 2022, it was attempted from the south by a British team, who were defeated by difficult climbing on loose rock at around 6,000m.After securing a permit to climb on the mountain, Fowler and Saunders flew to the region in late August. They trekked in to Yawash Sar and established a base camp on meadows at an altitude of around 4,600m, below the First Koksil Glacier. From there, they embarked on an alpine style attempt on the mountain via the north west face, and became the first people to reach its summit on Saturday 14 September. Once they had descended safely and had trekked back to the roadhead several days later, Fowler and Saunders were able to send a message back to the UK to confirm their success.Mick Fowler takes up the story: The face was complex and we were fortunate to find good climbing conditions and, after extensive binocular research, weave our way through numerous probable cul-de-sacs without reaching any impasses. A notable feature of the climb was a lack of good bivouac sites and at one point, we endured an excruciatingly uncomfortable hanging bivouac in strong winds.The position, distinctive objective and continuously excellent climbing combined to make us feel that this was one of the best ascents that we have done together. It was absolutely brilliant!Mick and Vic described the peak as Matterhorn of the KhunjerabMick Fowler (68) and Victor Saunders (74) first climbed in Pakistan together in 1984, and it was 37 years ago that they made their renowned ascent of The Golden Pillar of Spantik, which lies a few hours away from Yawash Sar. Fowler and Saunders were regular climbing partners in the 1980s when both men lived in London. After Spantik, they didnt climb together for three decades until reuniting in 2016 to achieve a first ascent on the north face of Sersank in the Indian Himalaya. They had planned more expeditions before Fowlers cancer diagnosis delayed them. Following successful treatment, Fowler returned to fitness and expeditions, and now explores the greater ranges with the additional challenge of needing to use a colostomy bag.GalleryMore info: www.berghaus.com

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If you're looking for a family-friendly Lake District walk with jaw-dropping views in every direction, look no further than Tarn Hows.Having done this walk a couple of times, I can confidently say it's one of my favourites for an easy but rewarding day out. Whether it's a bright summer afternoon or a crisp winter morning, Tarn Hows is a beauty all year round. And the best part? It's accessible to just about everyone!Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about the Tarn Hows Walk Tarn Hows: A Tranquil TreasureTarn Hows is a man-made tarn (small lake) created by joining three smaller ones back in the 19th century. Situated between Coniston and Hawkshead, it's surrounded by rolling hills, dense woodlands, and of course, the majestic fells of the Lake District.Whether you're new to walking or a seasoned hiker, you'll appreciate the gentle charm of this circular route. And the views? Simply stunning the mirror-like surface of the tarn reflects the fells, making it a great spot for some dreamy photos. The Details Tarn Hows Walk RouteStart at the car park Once you've parked, cross the road and take the left-hand fork down towards the lakeside. This initial stretch is really gentle and opens up to those classic Lake District views almost immediately. Pass through the gate, and youll begin your clockwise journey around the tarn.Follow the track Stick to the main path around the tarn, which is easy to follow and suitable for pushchairs, mobility scooters, and those with less experience. Youll notice a path crossing the main route at one point if youre sticking to the level track, just carry on straight. If you fancy a bit more adventure, take the gate to the left and head uphill for some elevated views. Its a bit of a climb but absolutely worth it.Up to the Viewing Car Park After a short climb, you'll reach the Viewing Car Park, a great spot to take in panoramic views of the surrounding fells and tarn. If youd rather avoid the muddy field paths or if the weather's not great, you can follow the road from here back to the main car park.Descending back Whichever route you choose, the Tarn Hows Walk eventually winds downhill again and through a gate, leading you back to the car park where you started.Its a super easy walk to follow, well signposted, and the paths are clearly defined. Even if you decide to head uphill, the alternative options make it perfect for all fitness levels and abilities. Tarn Hows Walk Route Map Tarn Hows Walk Route (Komoot) Tarn Hows WaterfallIf you're up for a little adventure, keep an eye (and ear) out for the Tarn Hows Waterfall. Its a bit of a hidden gem, tucked away off the main track but well worth the detour from the main route.The waterfall isnt huge, but its secluded location and the sound of water cascading down the rocks adds to the magic of the walk. Its a great spot to pause and soak up the peaceful vibes before continuing on your Tarn Hows Walk. Tarn Hows ParkingParking at Tarn Hows is pretty straightforward. Theres a National Trust car park right near the start of the walk, so you dont have to worry about a long trek before you even set off. However, be prepared to pay for parking unless youre a National Trust member. The main car park is spacious, but it can fill up during peak times, especially on weekends and during holidays.Parking Charges: 5 for 2 hrs or 7 for all dayAddress: Tarn Hows Car Park, near Coniston, Cumbria, LA22 0PP Other Walks in The Lake District Hallin Fell WalkThe Latrigg WalkAira Force Waterfalls WalkLoughrigg Fell Circular Walk FAQs.How long does it take to walk around Tarn Hows?The circular route around Tarn Hows is approximately 3.2 km (2 miles) and takes about 1 hour to complete. That said, its easy to extend the walk if you want to explore more of the surrounding area.Is there free parking at Tarn Hows?Unfortunately, no. Tarn Hows car park is a National Trust car park, and charges apply unless you're a member. But its worth every penny for the convenience and upkeep of such a beautiful location!Is Tarn Hows pram friendly?Absolutely! The main circular path around Tarn Hows is level, surfaced, and wide enough for prams and mobility scooters. In fact, its one of the best walks in the Lake District if youre looking for accessibility. Whether youre exploring with family, taking a solo stroll, or venturing out with friends, the Tarn Hows Walk never disappoints. From the shimmering tarn to the hidden waterfall, its the kind of walk that stays with you long after youve left. So pack your boots, grab your camera, and go soak in the magic of Tarn Hows you wont regret it! Other Posts You Might Like8 Family Friendly Walks in The Lake DistrictThe Highest Mountains in the Lake District follow our adventures.

Youre two hours into a five-hour drive and youve heard the same song repeated on the radio three times, what do you do?Podcasts are a brilliant way to pass the time and drown out the are we there yet?s. But finding the perfect podcast can be tricky and you might have to listen to a few frogs before finding the right one. But dont worry, weve done the hard work for you and youre guaranteed to find something in this list to keep you entertained whilst youre racking up those miles.From laugh-out-loud thigh slappers to mind-blowing fact churners, here is a list of the greatest road trip podcasts recommended by the Quirky team.Off MenuStill or sparkling? Two comedians (Ed Gamble & James Acaster) have curated a magical restaurant where they invite special guests to choose their dream starter, main, side, and dessert. It may sound like a simple concept but trust us when we say this podcast will have you laughing your way down the motorway. Its also likely to give you some pretty unique dinner inspiration winner winner chicken dinner!Hosts: Ed Gamble & James AcasterGenre: ComedyWhere can I listen? Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Audible and AcastThe Guilty FeministEver question whether youre doing enough as a modern day woman? Then this podcast is for you. Comedian Deborah Francis-White and her guests discuss their noble goals as 21st-century feminists that continue to be undermined by societal hypocrisies and insecurities.Host: Deborah Francis-WhiteGenre: ComedyWhere can I listen? The Guilty Feminist website, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Audible and AcastUnlocking UsDelving deep into connections and relationships, Brene Brown hosts direct and unfiltered conversations about what it truly means to be human. To keep you on your toes, her podcast format continuously changes. In one episode she may be joined by a guest and the next could be dedicated to answering your questions.Host: Brene BrownGenre: Self-helpWhere can I listen? Brene Brown website and SpotifyWe Can Do Hard ThingsLife is tough and sometimes you need to give yourself time to process that, this is exactly the kind of space Glennon Doyle has created. Join her as she discusses the daily challenges and the benefit of not faking it until you make it when it comes to your feelings.Host: Glennon DoyleGenre: WellbeingWhere can I listen? Apple Podcasts and SpotifyWhere Should We BeginEver wanted to be a fly on the wall in a therapy session? Licensed marriage and family therapist Esther Perel counsels real couples and friends on a wide range of issues. These issues include outgrown childhood friendships to making space for queerness in a hetero relationship, nothing is off the table in these sessions.Host: Esther PerelGenre: Society & CultureWhere can I listen? Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Google PodcastsI WeighFounded in 2018 by Jameela Jamil, I Weight is a movement centered around radical inclusivity. Its a place where progress is favoured over perfection as Jameela challenges societal norms through in-depth discussions with activists, performers, influencers, and friends.Host: Jameela JamilGenre: Society & CultureWhere can I listen? Earwolf, Apple Podcasts and SpotifyHappy PlaceDescribed as a new destination for all where difference is celebrated and the extraordinary is discovered. Ferne Cotton released the Happy Place podcast following the success of her first best-selling book Happy. Each week Ferne is joined by some of the most interesting minds in the industry to discuss what brings them happiness. Previous guests include Stephen Fry, Jada Pinkett-Smith, and Wim Hof.Host: Ferne CottonGenre: WellbeingWhere can I listen? Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Google PodcastsHow To FailFailing at something is usually met with feelings of guilt, shame, and doubt but in this podcast, failures are celebrated! Elizabeth Day is joined by household names who openly discuss their own failures, what they taught them, and how it helped them to better succeed in the future.Host: Elizabeth DayGenre: Society & CultureWhere can I listen? Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Google PodcastsParenting HellThis one is for all the parents out there! Comedians Rob Beckett & Josh Widdicombe, along with their celebrity guests, dive into the realities of parenthood. Whether youre a new parent or your children have flown the nest, youre bound to find this podcast hilariously relatable.Hosts: Rob Beckett & Josh WiddicombeGenre: ComedyWhere can I listen? Google Podcasts, Spotify and AudibleOlogiesHave you ever wondered if bats have belly buttons? Or what nimbus actually means? Well, wonder no more. Each week, science correspondent Alie Ward invites professional ologists to discuss what sparked their obsession. With topics ranging from bee drama, otters, space junk, and anxiety busters, Alie asks smart people stupid questions so you can walk away with a pocket full of obscure facts.Host: Alie WardGenre: Science/ComedyWhere can I listen? Apple Podcasts, Spotify and DeezerNearlyWedsRegardless of whether youve got a ring on your finger or not, this podcast will have you in stitches. Get ready to deep dive into the hilarious realities of wedding planning and everything that comes with it.Host: Sophie Habboo & Jamie LaingGenre: ComedyWhere can I listen? Apple Podcasts, Spotify and AcastPlanning your next big road trip? Take a look at our selection of handcrafted campervans.The post Best Podcasts for Long Road Trips appeared first on Quirky Campers.

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