White Scar Cave
Sunday 14th September
Party: Rob Dalby, Mel Smith, Richard Rae, Emma Beecroft, Andy Mason, Cat, Mel Tolson
White Scar is known for its refreshing swims, thus everyone duly arrived sporting a wetsuit, except the member of the party who “really should eat more pies”. Fortunately an inflatable boat was on hand: Not as a flotation device but to fill the void in a neo fleece borrowed from Rob!Having successfully negotiated the steel board walks and the fence at the limit of show cave, it was time to get wet: 30m of mostly just out of depth water presented an ideal opportunity to cool off from the march in and filter out any aqua-phobes.
With the first hurdle cleared, a short section of passage nearly had Rob turning back, exclaiming “there’s just no way I’m going to fit through there”. However after some careful rearrangement of a few lose boulders, the necessary void was formed and the party was able to proceed.
The streamway was then regained, varying between fast flowing sections to “off depth” pools and short climbs. Another series of cold lakes, with often minimal airspace to the roof, lead to the sump, and having dispatched shots of Andy’s warm Vimto, it was time to head out.
With all the hard work done, the sight of the show cave prompted some slightly premature celebrations within the party as Cat attempted to down a pint of the final water feature. A lifeboat was quickly launched to provide assistance and within 15 minutes we emerged to a pleasantly warm and sunny car park.
Summary: Wet, cold, but highly enjoyable. Wetsuit and greasy breakfast essential! Trip time: ~3 hours Richard| < Prev | Next > |
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