u/matt-roams

Completed the three GB peaks but by no means part of the official challenge, Eryri and Ben Nevis were tackled over the course of a couple of years leaving only Scafell Pike to conquer last week. My pals and I reunited for a birthday trip destined for Ambleside, then drove north to camp near the peak itself.

Conditions were... adverse. Naturally as soon as we began eating our tea it started bucketing down and we fled inside our tents. Some very strong gusts continued through the night and left us feeling grateful that we went the extra distance the day before.

Thankfully we traded wind for rain on the rocky descent and made much needed use of the hostel dry room.

To my shame as someone from NI, I have yet to tackle Slieve Donard but it is certainly next on my list! Nothing beats camping with your pals.

My pinky toes have just returned their full feeling around five weeks after coming home. I had walked 250k through Ireland to raise some money for charity, mostly along a mix of paved roads and trails. It was a great experience and I would love to expand on it in the future - however the lingering numbness was a bit of a put-off and I would be concerned about permanent damage.

Is it as simple as going for a wider toe box? I was wearing my ~8 year old Salomon X Radiants which are definitely due for an upgrade, but have read that lacing technique, reducing pack weight, and frequent resting can help too. Possibly looking at some Altbergs or Jim Greens when I have the income spare.

Hoping some of yous more experienced hikers can lend a hand (or foot?).

Particularly good vibes between the thunder and lightning a couple of nights ago, and a great chance to practice shooting on the north coast. Love the cloud layers!

Visiting every country in Europe via Interrail and was amazingly surprised by Slovakia. Excellent hikes with just enough snow at this time of year to make it interesting.