Mam Tor Mountain Environment Route Route Description: the Route for the Mountain Environment Programme in Castleton Approaches the Lower Slopes of Mam Tor
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Mam Tor Mountain Environment Route Route description: The route for the Mountain Environment programme in Castleton approaches the lower slopes of Mam Tor. It is approximately 2 miles long with an ascent of 200 metres. The ground is steep with rough terrain in places. It is a circular walk with the option to double back if the weather becomes too poor to continue. There are a number of gates and small stiles on the route and these will be supervised by staff. The meeting point for the day is Castleton Visitor Centre Car Park, where there are public toilets for the pupils to use. You will be meet here by Peak District National Park Staff but will continue by coach to the drop off point for the route which is further up the valley (see map) At the beginning of the walk, pupils will be split into working groups for the day and be issued with a Mountain Explorers’ Rucksack. The first section of the walk passes through fields where pupils will carry out some map and compass work before beginning the steep ascent passed Treak Cliff Cavern. The first section of the ascent is on a paved footpath with railings, then after Treak Cliff Cavern, it winds steeply across farmland. The route can be exposed in sections, but gives a real sense of climbing to an elevation, without there being any drop offs or rocky faces. Staff will set the pace of the walk to ensure that it is not too much of a challenge and to keep the group safe. We will stop along the way to do various activities to engage with and understand this upland landscape. The route then emerges near Blue John Cavern, where there are fantastic views of Mam Tor, Winnats Pass and down the Hope Valley. We will lunch in this area to give the pupils the chance to fully enjoy the 360° views. All staff carry an emergency shelter that can be used at lunch time if the weather is really poor. From the Blue John Cavern, the route descends below the face of Mam Tor along the dramatic route known as the Broken Road. Pupils will learn about the geology of this area and how it effects the landscape. The pick up point for the end of the route is at Odin Mine, where the coach will be able to park and turn round. The 1:25,000 Ordnance Survey Leisure Map 1 (Dark Peak) covers this route. Health and Safety It is very important that all members of the group are appropriately dressed for a walk in an upland environment, with warm layers, full waterproofs and hats and gloves. Ideal footwear would be walking boots/shoes or wellington. The meeting point for the visit is Castleton Visitor Centre Pay and Display Car Park.. There is plenty of coach parking. Visitor Centre postcode and address Buxton Road, Castleton, Hope Valley, S33 8WN Directions Coaches must approach Castleton from Hope on the A6187. There is no access for coaches via Winnats Pass. .