What kit do you actually need? How do you read a map? What happens if the weather turns? And how do you know whether you’re actually “fit enough” for the mountains?

These are all questions I had when I started and it’s exactly why I created Made Wild hiking courses. They’re designed to give you the skills, knowledge and confidence to get outside and start having your own adventures without feeling like you need to already know everything.

Here’s a little more info on what you can expect.

What is a beginner hiking course?

Think of it as your “where the hell do I start?” guide to hiking because as silly as you may feel, we’ve all been there and there’s absolutely no shame in it. As I always say, when it comes to being out in the mountains, it’s better to be overprepared than not at all.

Our beginner courses combine guided walks with practical outdoor skills, so you’re not just learning about hiking, you’re actually getting out there and putting it into practice.

Depending on the course, we’ll cover things like navigation, route planning, clothing and kit, mountain safety and building confidence outdoors. Of course, there’ll be plenty of walking, snacks and questionable jokes along the way 🤪

Who is it suitable for?

Our beginner courses are for women who want to feel more confident outdoors, whether you’re completely new to hiking or you’ve done a few walks but still don’t feel like you really know what you’re doing.

You don’t need to be super fit, own loads of expensive kit or know how to use a compass. All you need is to be up for learning, getting outside and giving it a go.

If you’re worried about being the least experienced person there, don’t be. That’s literally why we’re here.

What you’ll learn

The exact skills depend on the course, but we’ll cover the practical stuff you actually need to feel more confident outdoors.

This might include:

• How to plan a hike

• Basic map reading and navigation

• How to use a compass

• What to wear and pack

• Understanding British mountain weather

• Pacing yourself and managing your energy

• Basic mountain safety

• Making sensible decisions in changing conditions

• Building confidence and trusting yourself outdoors

The aim isn’t to turn you into a mountain expert in one weekend, it’s to give you a solid foundation so you can keep learning and exploring afterwards.

What equipment do you need?

The TLDR version is it’s probably less than you think.

We’ll always send you a kit list before the course so you know exactly what you need. For our beginner courses, you definitely don’t need a wardrobe full of fancy outdoor gear. You’ll generally need sturdy footwear, waterproofs, a backpack, food and water, plus suitable layers for the conditions.

If you do happen to think you’re missing something, just ask. I’m always happy to point you in the right direction, suggest some gear hire companies or might have some items you can borrow. I’m much more interested in getting you outside than making you buy a load of stuff you don’t need.

How do we keep you safe?

Safety is always our priority, but that doesn’t mean wrapping you in cotton wool.

Our courses are always led by qualified, experienced outdoor professionals who will assess the route and conditions and adapt the plan where needed. Our guides are fully qualified, insured and first aid trained. And by guides, I mainly mean me 🙋🏻‍♀️. We occasionally have other guides join us, but for the majority of our trips, you’ll be stuck with my Dad dancing moves and relentless energy.

We’ll also teach you how to make your own sensible decisions outdoors, because the whole point is for you to eventually feel confident to head out on your own.

Thanks to the good old reliable British weather, sometimes it does mean changing the route or in some rare and extreme conditions it means turning around. I never make this decision lightly, but my number one priority is always to keep you safe, and unfortunately sometimes it reluctantly has to be done. The mountains aren’t going anywhere and there will always be another day so rest assured if we can get out we absolutely will but I will never take you in to any forecasted unsafe conditions.

Upcoming courses

We run different hiking courses and skills weekends throughout the year, from beginner hiking and navigation through to scrambling and winter skills. In fact, I’ve just added some 2027 dates.

LEARN TO WILD CAMP 🏕️ - Lake District National Park
Fri 11th - Sun 13th Sept - 2 SPACES LEFT

INTRO TO NAVIGATION 🧭 - Peak District National Park
Fri 18th - Sun 20th Sept - 2 SPACES LEFT

3 DAY KNOYDART EXPEDITION 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 - Knoydart, Scottish Highlands
Fri 2nd - Sun 4th Oct - FULLY BOOKED

WOMEN’S WINTER SKILLS COURSE ❄️ - Cairngorms, Scottish Highlands
Fri 29th - 31st Jan BRAND NEW - 3 SPACES LEFT

MORE ADVENTURES

Frequently asked questions

There’s a full FAQs page on our website, but some of the most frequent questions I get asked are:

I’ve never hiked before. Is this really for me?

Yes! Our beginner courses are specifically designed for people who are new to hiking or lacking confidence outdoors.

What if I’m not very fit?

We’ll always make sure that nobody is left behind and keep at a pace that works for everyone in the group. You don’t need to be an athlete, but you do need to be able to comfortably walk for the duration and distance stated on the individual course. Every trip has its own difficulty level, so check the details before booking.

Can I come on my own?

Absolutely, lots of people do. Made Wild is a brilliant way to meet other women who also want to get outside. You won’t be the only person arriving solo, promise!

What happens if the weather is bad?

Welcome to hiking in the UK 😂 We’ll always keep an eye on the forecast and make decisions based on the conditions. Routes can be adapted or changed if necessary but having an adventure doesn’t mean taking unnecessary risks. As I mentioned above, unfortunately in extreme cases, we may have to postpone, but this is always a last resort.

Ready to get outside but still not sure if a course is right for you?

Just get in touch! Let me know what you’re looking for and I’ll point you towards the adventure that makes the most sense for you.

One last reminder that you don’t need to know everything before you start. Come and learn with like-minded women.

BOOK YOUR PLACE

See you in the mountains,
Lucy 🩵 x

Summer has absolutely flown by and whilst I’m not quite ready to admit that autumn is on its way (as I sit in a cafe with thundering rain hitting the roof 😅), I have to say what a month of adventures it has been!

August has seen us getting out into the mountains, welcoming some new faces into the Made Wild community and, perhaps most excitingly, getting everything ready for what is coming next 👀

So, let’s have a little August roundup...

Scrambling in the Lakes

One of my favourite things about scrambling is that it makes hiking feel a little bit more like an adventure, so much so that I often tell start the trips saying that scrambling is going to ruin hiking for you. This month we headed into the Lake District to do just that, and it reminded me exactly why I love being in the mountains so much.

There’s something pretty special about getting a group of women together, giving something new a go and watching the confidence grow as the day goes on. It was such a good day and I already want to go back.

Intro to Hiking in the Peaks

We also had an introduction to hiking adventure this month, which also happens to be one of my favourite types of courses to run (if you haven’t guessed already, I genuinely love any day out in the mountains!).

I know that getting started with hiking can feel a little overwhelming because I’ve been there too and it’s the very reason I started Made Wild, so these days always take me back to that aha moment I had when I knew this was the direction I wanted to go in.

So proud of all the women who joined us. We had a great day outdoors, learning the basics, building confidence and having a good old laugh together.

Hopefully this little roundup has been a reminder that you really can just give it a go.

You Saw It Here First

The 2027 Made Wild Adventures diary has JUST LAUNCHED. 👀

I have been working away behind the scenes putting together next year’s adventures and I am SO excited to finally be able to share them with you.

There are mountains, scrambles, hiking weekends, skills courses, new places, old favourites and, of course, plenty of opportunities to meet some brilliant women and get outside together.

Basically, 2027 is looking pretty damn good.

I can’t wait to have epic plans with you all for next year and hopefully see lots of familiar faces (and lots of new ones!) out in the mountains.

See you out there, Lucy 🩵 x

I packed a bag as big as me and twice as heavy, stuffed with mostly the wrong things plenty of stuff I didn’t need, nowhere near enough of what I did and off we went for a night under the stars in the Lake District.

It did not go smoothly. No source of fire between us. A synthetic sleeping bag that got wet. Not enough food, which meant by morning I was hangry in a way that made me grumpily refuse my friend’s Kendal mint cake while being dragged up a boggy, miserable hill just to get off it.

And yet. We found another wild camper who had a spare lighter. We caught an unreal sunrise at 5am. And for the first time in ages, I actually switched off. Lessons were learnt, but all’s well that ends well.

Here’s the thing I didn’t know back then: you don’t need to get it right the first time for it to be worth doing. I got almost everything wrong and I still came home hooked.

Since Covid, the outdoors has never been more popular and wild camping right along with it. But I hear the same hesitations over and over: it’s too complicated, too scary to do alone, there’s too much gear to buy. I get it. I felt all three, and I still went in underprepared and half-guessing.

The difference between my first miserable-brilliant night and yours doesn’t have to be luck, or a friend who happens to know what they’re doing, or trial by boggy hillside. It can just be someone showing you the bits that actually matter before you go.

So here's 5 things I wish someone had told me before my first camp and a chance to come try it with me next month in the Lake District.

1. Wild camping isn’t as complicated as it looks

The internet makes wild camping look like a logistics exercise you need a diploma for. It’s not. At its core, it’s just: find a good (legal or responsible) spot, pitch your tent, sleep under the stars, pack up and leave no trace. Everything else, the gear lists, the weather apps, the essential skills are just details you pick up as you go with hiking anyway.

If you can take anything from my first camping experience it’s that you don’t need to know everything before your first trip. You’ll be ok.

2. Where can you camp?

Where you sleep does matter. In England and Wales, wild camping legally requires landowner permission almost everywhere (the Lake District is one of the more accepted areas for it above the highest fell line), but it still comes with etiquette. That being said you can mostly get away with it if you are respectful, camp aware from busy areas, pitch late and leave early and of course leave no trace.

3. How to stay warm and safe

It’s easy to focus so much on the tent that you neglect all the stuff that’s actually going to keep you warm. That’s effective layers (nothing super expensive needed). What’s under you, aka your mat and making sure you have food to eat. As I learnt the hard way some essentials you WILL need are a source of fire (eg. lighter) and a head torch (no your phone torch won’t do).

I think it would be remiss of me to not mention the recent wildfires we have experienced in the UK and this is very much something you need to consider if you’re using a fire to cook while you’re out. Protect the ground and never take your eyes off the flame.

4. Leave no trace

Pack out everything you bring in including food scraps. If you see any rubbish on the hills take that with you too. It’s a small thing that keeps wild camping possible for everyone.

5. You’ll feel rubbish

You will sleep worse than you expect, but it won’t matter, at least in a few days time. There’s something about waking up groggy in a tent, unzipping the door and looking out at the hills that makes up for a pretty rubbish night’s sleep tenfold. This is the type of stuff you remember forever even if it the moment you’re over it.

Come try it with me

If reading this has you half-convinced but still nervous about doing it alone (completely normal, by the way) then that’s exactly why I run the trips I do. Next month, I’m running an Intro to Wild Camping trip in the Lake District. No experience needed. I’ll talk you through kit, pitching, cooking on the trail, and all the bits that feel intimidating on paper but are actually pretty simple once you’ve done them once with someone who knows what they’re doing and not only that we will spend two nights camping with one out in the wild!

There are only two spaces left so if you’ve been on the fence, this is your sign.

BOOK YOUR SPOT NOW

Here are three myths and misconceptions that stop people getting started.

Myth #1: “You need expensive, specialist gear.”

This is one of the biggest barriers for beginners. People imagine they need £600 jackets and crampons before they can go anywhere.

The truth: You can get started with far less.

What you actually need to spend money on:

• Sturdy footwear with good grip

• Layers you can add/remove

• Spare gloves and a warm hat

• A headtorch

• Affordable microspikes for icy path

The exciting fancy stuff like ice axes, helmets and crampons only become relevant if you choose to progress to steeper terrain which is where a winter skills course is a valuable investment to keep increasing the fun and challenge of the winter season! Even so you don’t have to fork out for these and can often rent them from outdoor stores pretty cheap!

Myth #2: “Winter hiking is dangerous unless you’re experienced.”

Winter can be dangerous if you head out unprepared… but beginners can absolutely hike safely with the right knowledge.

A huge amount of winter safety comes from understanding:

• how to assess the weather

• how to recognise changing conditions

• how to move on snow and ice

• when to turn back (I’ve been here and you have to not let ego get the better of you)

• how to make conservative decisions

These are teachable. They’re learnable. And you don’t need years of mountaineering behind you.

Myth #3: “Navigation is impossible in winter.”

It’s not impossible but it is different.

Snow can hide paths and landmarks, so map and compass skills become more important. On well-used, lower-level routes the risks are often minimal, but as you head higher you’ll also need to understand hazards like avalanches, cornices and rapidly changing weather.

Once you understand a few simple techniques up in the mountains, it actually becomes incredibly empowering, because you decide where to go, not the footprints in front of you.

Okay So What Should Beginners Focus On?

Here’s 6 pieces of advice that I either learnt the hard way or wish I’d known which are genuinely useful tips that will keep you safe and confident, even as a winter newcomer:

1. Start with small, familiar routes.
2. Layer for temperature changes.
3. Pack like you’re going to stop often.
4. Check multiple weather forecasts.
5. Turn back early, not late.
6. Do a winter skills course

I know this is going to sound like a really poorly executed way of advertising the Made Wild Winter Skills Weekend but I promise you, it’s not. Years ago when I was interested in hiking in winter but had no clue what to do I signed up to a winter skills course in Scotland. It was great! Not only invaluable advice, but the guide leading was SO passionate about the outdoors and it inspired me so much in my journey to being a mountain leader. I honestly would highly recommend as these courses are designed to introduce you to the key areas of hiking in winter and winter mountaineering.

Speaking of which…

Here’s The Great News…

The sell out Made Wild Women’s Winter Skills Course is back again in January.

It’s designed specifically for beginners and women who want to feel confident in winter but don’t know where to start but also just a great chance to get out into the mountains and experience the magic of a Scottish winter!

On the course, you’ll learn:

• how to move safely on snow and ice

• how to use winter tools (ice axe & crampons)

• winter navigation basics

• how to assess conditions and make good decisions

• how to stay warm, safe, and comfortable

Plus, you’ll spend the weekend with a supportive group of women, and warm up in our shared accommodation each evening (plus a cosy post hike pub visit ofc).

When: 29-31 Jan ’27
Where: Cairngorms, Scottish Highlands
How much: £520pp (£580pp for sole occupancy bedroom)
*includes 2x nights self catered exclusive accom, equipment hire and all guiding.

You can check out all the details here!

Ps. If you want to see what to expect check out this YouTube video I made during 2024’s weekend.

I hope all this winter talk has cooled you off a little and gives you confidence that winter hiking isn’t just for experts, it’s for anyone willing to learn the basics!

See you in the mountains Crew,
Lucy 🩵 x

Now this isn’t me shaming anyone or calling you out after all, I too did this for many years until I learnt how to navigate properly because it’s easy, less daunting and most of the time it works!

However, this may be the one skill that you can learn that not only is fun (yup, I promise… fun) BUT also might actually save your life and I’m not being dramatic.

So no, you don’t JUST want to learn to navigate. You want to stop being the person in the group who waits to see where everyone else is going. You want to feel like you know what to do if the clouds come in or you simply want to be able to plan some sick routes by yourself and take your friends and family out safely, then let’s fix this navigational knowledge gap right now.

Where To Start

1. Learn what a map looks like.
Duhhhh, right? Well not so much. A lot of us have never properly looked at a map and when you do you’ll notice there’s quite a lot of lines and symbols on them that all look very similar. Familiarising yourself with these features and different types of maps and scales is a great place to start, even if that is on your phone.

2. Start understanding what contour lines are.
The wiggly and squiggly lines on the map are one of it’s key features. They describe in 2D what the landscape looks like around you in 3D. This means you can understand what the ground around you should look like and areas of steep ground to avoid.

OS Maps: Understanding contour lines

3. Orient the map to the ground, not to the page.
The temptation to hold a map like a book regardless of how your standing with North up is a no brainer to most but it’s unfortunately it’s not helpful. Turn it in your hands until the features on the map point the same way as the features in front of you. That hill on your left on the map should be the hill on your left in real life. Sounds obvious but it isn’t, and it’s the single biggest thing beginners skip.

4. Match what you’re walking on to what’s on the map.
When I’m guiding, I’m always aware of what I’m expecting to feel and see beneath my feet and around me and pay attention to what is actually happening. Before you set off, look at the path, track, or feature you’re actually standing on and find it on the map. Then look ahead at the rest of your journey where does that path lead on the map? Is that what you actually experience when you set off?

5. Estimate your timings
You can use a map to estimate how long it should take you to arrive at a specific point through measuring the distance using the grid lines and a compass which is another tool to confirm you’re on the right track to your destination. This really comes in clutch if you are trying to get somewhere or find a route in poor visibility or at night time.

If you, like I did, think navigation is scary or overwhelming then I’m here with some good news, it’s actually fun… like really fun! It’s almost like collecting lots of clues on a treasure hunt and then finding what you’ve been looking for as a reward. I remember a day practicing navigation on Carnedd Llewelyn and seeing nothing all day. I was navigating to a small rock outcrop I had seen on the map and as usual my brain was telling me to follow my gut and not my compass but alas I persisted and when I eventually hit the rocks, I was so elated 😅… it’s the small things sometimes!

There are loads of amazing resources to help you learn the basics of navigation and I particularly like The Ramblers YouTube channel and The Map Reading Company’s YouTube channel to start with.

Why This Matters

If you are still thinking this won’t benefit you, I promise you it will. You won’t need it all the time but when you do, you will be grateful you can do it. Navigate by phone? Well, it’s still a map and GPS frequently drops out. Just the other day mine was telling me I was facing the wrong direction, which I wasn’t. Only go out in clear weather? The forecast is soooo not reliable. There has only been one weekend trip this year which I’ve guided that has had clear weather both days. Rely on other people? That’s all well and good until they freak out or lose their map or you find out they don’t actually know how to use a map and compass.

So here’s your opportunity to learn:

Over three days in the Peak District you can go from never picking up a map before to confident map reader and route planning with the intro to navigation course.

Here’s what a NNAS Navigation Course with Made Wild actually gives you that a YouTube video can’t:

• Not just ‘navigation skills’ on paper but the actual feeling of being at a junction, in poor visibility, and knowing you don’t need to look at anyone else for help

• Small groups, real terrain, led by a qualified Mountain Leader.

• Three days, not years of half-picking it up secondhand while someone else leads.

• No stress, no assumed knowledge, no feeling stupid for asking the ‘obvious’ question, just a relaxed fun female only learning environment.

You leave being the person who can make the call. Someone who can confidently plan routes and take your friends and family out and about. Someone who has the one vital skill needed to be in the mountains and made some friends along the way.

Book your spot on the NNAS Navigation Course →

Stop waiting to see where everyone else is going, and lead your own way.

See you in the hills,
Lucy x

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What’s Coming Up

SNOWDON HORSESHOE (CRIB GOCH) - Eryri National Park
Sun 13th Aug (ONLY TWO SPACES LEFT)

If you’re looking for a mountain day that feels truly memorable, the Snowdon Horseshoe is hard to beat. This classic route takes in some of Eryri’s most spectacular ridges and summits, including the famous Crib Goch, offering a mix of hiking, scrambling, and incredible views throughout.

INTRO TO NAVIGATION - Peak District National Park
Fri 18th - Sun 20th Sept

Never picked up a map before? Relying on your phone or other people for navigation? Learn the one fun and vital skill that you need if you are heading into the hills with the National Navigation Award Scheme Straight to Silver award. Feel confident using a map and compass and spend three awesome days in the Peak District together.

WOMEN’s WINTER SKILLS COURSE - Cairngorms, Scottish Highlands
Fri 29th - 31st Jan BRAND NEW

Ready to take your mountain adventures to the next level? Our sellout winter skills weekend is back! Learn all the skills you need to adventure in the mountains this winter and have tons of fun in the process!

BOOK YOUR TRIP NOW

Here’s our Google review of the month from Paula who has been on two trips with Made Wild including our recent 3000’s over 3 days:

Paula
★★★★★

“Lucy is the most amazing Mountain Leader. Nothing feels too crazy with her by your side, she radiates positivity and will encourage everyone "you can do this!". Join on a trip with her and you will exceed your own expectations. The trips and locations are incredible, beautifully organised, and the perfect place to meet like-minded women. So much love for this experience ❤️”

Bring on August, starting with our fully booked intro to hiking weekend in the Peaks this weekend followed by some classic scrambles in the Lakes and then heading back to Wales!

Thank you all for being here, it’s appreciated so much and I love nothing more than the belly laughs, sunrises and sunsets and chance to share the hills with such incredible women!

See you all in the mountains,
Lucy 🩵 xx

PS. 2027 trips coming soon, leave a comment with anything you’d like to see in next years calendar down below 👀

BOOK YOUR TRIP NOW

When people ask me about the Welsh 3000s, they usually assume the biggest challenge is going to be the distance or the climbing. 50 kilometres, thousands of metres of ascent and the possibility of being out on the mountains for an entire day sounds intimidating enough. But for me, that has never been the part that’s kept me awake at night.

The thing that has occupied my mind is Crib Goch.

If you’ve ever seen photographs of it, you’ll understand why. It’s a narrow ridge with steep drops on either side, and for someone who has always been afraid of heights it has become something much bigger than a section of mountain. It has represented huge doubts I’ve always had about myself.

I’ve always been frightened of heights. Not in the sense that I feel a bit uncomfortable standing near an edge, but in the way that makes your body freeze before your brain has even had chance to think logically. For years I simply accepted that this was part of who I was, and that certain adventures involving heights belonged to other people.

Signing up for the Welsh 3000s meant deciding that perhaps that story didn’t have to define me forever.

It certainly hasn’t been a case of deciding to be brave and suddenly becoming fearless. I’ve put an enormous amount into getting to this point. There have been endless early mornings spent training, strength sessions that I didn’t particularly feel like doing, long walks in all kinds of weather, and hours spent preparing my body for what lies ahead. Alongside all of that, I’ve used hypnotherapy because I knew this wasn’t simply a physical challenge. My biggest obstacle was always going to be the conversation happening inside my own head.

Looking back now, I can see that every single session has been preparing me for more than just a mountain. It has been teaching me that confidence isn’t something you’re born with. It’s something you slowly build by repeatedly doing things that scare you.

The real turning point came at the beginning of June when I spent a scrambling weekend with Lucy, who’ll also be guiding us through the Welsh 3000s. I arrived feeling excited but also deeply apprehensive. I knew it would push me outside my comfort zone, but I had no idea just how much it would change the way I thought about myself.

Lucy has an incredible way of making difficult things feel possible. She never dismisses fear or tells you to “just get on with it”. Instead, she brings this calm, steady confidence that makes you believe you can take the next step, even when you’re not entirely convinced yourself. She reads people brilliantly, knows exactly when to encourage and when to simply let you figure something out on your own, and somehow manages to make you feel safe without ever making you feel incapable.

There were moments during that weekend where I instinctively wanted to stop, where my fear told me that I wasn’t capable of taking another step. Yet every time I paused, took a breath and trusted both myself and Lucy’s guidance, I discovered that my body could do far more than my mind had been giving it credit for.

What surprised me most wasn’t that I completed the scrambles. It was how different I felt afterwards. Instead of thinking about everything that had frightened me, I found myself thinking about everything I’d achieved. Somewhere over those two days, the balance shifted. My fear didn’t disappear, but it stopped being the loudest voice in the conversation.

For the first time in years, I came home believing that Crib Goch might actually be possible. Knowing that Lucy will be leading us through the Welsh 3000s this weekend gives me an enormous sense of reassurance. I know she’ll never promise that it will be easy, but I also know that if there is a safe way through, she’ll help us find it. Sometimes confidence isn’t about believing you can do everything on your own. Sometimes it’s about trusting the person beside you enough to take that first step.

Of course, none of this has ever really been about ticking a mountain off a list.

We’re taking on the Welsh 3000s to raise money for my daughter, Clover, so that we can give her the opportunity to attend an intensive therapy programme that has the potential to make a real difference to her future. Like so many decisions we make as parents, it’s driven by hope. Hope that one more opportunity, one more intervention and one more experience might help her flourish.

Everything I do ultimately comes back to her.

She has changed my life in more ways than I can count. She has taught me resilience, patience and perspective. She has also shown me that love is often expressed not through grand gestures, but through the quiet determination to keep showing up, to keep searching for opportunities and to keep believing that tomorrow can be better than today.

This challenge is one of those opportunities. Every training walk, every early morning, every aching muscle and every moment spent facing a fear I’ve carried for years has been fuelled by the thought that it might help give Clover access to something that could make a genuine difference to her future. If walking across one of the most intimidating ridges in Britain helps open that door for her, then every uncomfortable step is worth taking.

But somewhere along the way, something unexpected happened and I found myself again.

When you’re a parent of a child with additional needs, you spend so much of your life fighting for someone else that it’s easy to lose sight of yourself. You become an advocate, a researcher, a fundraiser, an organiser and a problem solver. Those roles become so consuming that you almost forget who you were before.

One of the unexpected gifts of this challenge has been rediscovering that person.

I’ve remembered that I love adventure. I’ve remembered how satisfying it is to work towards something that once felt impossible. I’ve learned to appreciate my body for its strength rather than criticising it for how it looks, and I’ve realised that I’m capable of so much more than I ever allowed myself to believe.

I don’t think this challenge has changed me into someone new. Instead, I think it’s helped me rediscover the version of me that had been buried beneath years of responsibility. The woman who loves being outdoors. Who thrives on adventure. Who enjoys testing herself. Who wants to see what her body can do rather than constantly worrying about how it looks.

Perhaps that’s why this challenge has become about more than reaching the finish line.

Whether I cross Crib Goch exactly as I imagine or whether the mountain has other plans for me on the day, I’ve already achieved something I never thought possible. I’ve changed the story I tell myself about who I am.

For years, fear convinced me that these adventures belonged to other people. Now, for the first time, I truly believe they belong to me too.

JustGiving

If Emily’s story has inspired you to take your hiking to the next level, join us for our Intro to Scrambling course // 1-2 Aug

We’ll explore some of Snowdonia’s classic grade 1 scrambles, learning how to move safely and efficiently over rocky ground while soaking up incredible ridge-line views. You’ll develop essential skills in route choice, balance, movement, and risk awareness, all under the guidance of a qualified Mountain Leader.

MORE INFO

Looking back, June was a pretty special month. We spent time in Eryri taking on the Welsh 3000s, explored some incredible scrambles on the intro to scrambling weekend, welcomed both familiar and new faces, and I genuinely haven’t laughed so much in a long time. I’ll tell you, laughing so hard you are crying and your body is week is not for the faint of heart on Crib Goch 😂!

So if you joined us this month, a massive thank you for trusting me with your weekends, for embracing the unpredictable weather (because... Wales), and for helping create such a supportive atmosphere on every trip.

Summer is only just getting started, and we’ve got some brilliant adventures still to come. We’re heading back to Eryri to take on the Welsh 3000s again this weekend, and it’s looking like the perfect weekend for it.

What’s Coming Up

One trip I'm especially looking forward to this summer is our Women's Snowdonia Hiking Retreat. It's a chance to slow down for a weekend (and boy do I need it), spend time in the mountains, and switch the usual day-to-day rush for fresh air, good conversation and some pretty incredible views. Whether you come with a friend or on your own (most people do!), it's a lovely opportunity to reconnect with the outdoors, meet like-minded women and enjoy everything that makes time in the mountains so special. If you've been craving a weekend away that leaves you feeling genuinely refreshed, this might be just the thing.

I go into a bit more detail in the video below if you’re looking for your next outdoor trip.

Eryri Hiking & Wellness Retreat
Friday 17th - Sunday 19th Jul // 3 spaces remaining

Intro to Scrambling - Eryri, N. Wales
- Saturday 1st - Sunday 2nd Aug

Welsh 3000s Over 3 Days - Eryri, N. Wales
- Sunday 23rd - Wednesday 26th Aug

Snowdon Horseshoe (Crib Goch) - Eryri, N. Wales
- Sunday 30th Aug

NNAS Navigation Skills Course - Peak District National Park
- Friday 18th - Sunday 20th Sept

3 Day Knoydart Expedition - Knoydart, Scottish Highlands
- Friday 2nd - Sunday 4th Oct // 2 spaces left

If you need something to look forward to after summer and fancy joining me on a real adventure, this is it.

This Is What It's All About

Check out the latest Google reviews and this highlight

Cressy
★★★★★

“What an incredible three days hiking the Welsh 3000s! I honestly couldn't recommend Lucy at Made Wild Adventures highly enough.

We successfully summited all 15 peaks and a huge thank you goes to the wonderful Lucy, whose expert guiding, endless enthusiasm, and reassuring support made the whole experience unforgettable. I am pretty scared of heights, but Lucys calm approach, giving the group a good understanding of what to expect and how to take on the challenge of a grade 1 scramble - we all made it across the infamous Crib Goch ridge, loving every second of it!

Not only is Lucy an exceptional guide, but her knowledge of the Welsh mountains, local history and her enthusiasm is truly impressive. Rain or shine she kept us positive, fuelled with sweets and she carried the heaviest bag with additional water and all the safety equipment you could imagine! One of the biggest highlights was sharing the journey with other amazing women. We chatted and laughed the entire time, my cheeks hurt from laughing so much!”

Here’s to plenty more adventures in July, sweaty days and much more laughing over the rest of the summer!

Hopefully I’ll see some of you on a trip soon. I’d love to hear if you’ve got any of your own adventures planned!

Lucy 🩵 xx

BOOK YOUR TRIP NOW

So I thought it was about time I gave you the perfect Snowdonia itinerary! If you've been thinking about a proper weekend in Snowdonia but don't know where to start, where to stay, what to do and how to make the most of it then here's how I'd spend a perfect weekend in Eryri.

Where to Stay

Llanberis in my opinion is a great base for pretty much everything in North Snowdonia. Right at the foot of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), nestled next to the beautiful Llyn Padarn and with great transport links it’s littered with cafes and pubs as well as accommodation options from hotels to hostels.

If you want somewhere with a bit more character and a lot less foot traffic. The village of Dinorwig sits just above Llanberis on the hillside tucked into the old slate Dinorwig Quarry (which is a great place to catch an evening sunset from). It’s quiet, it’s beautiful, and has incredible views of Snowdon.

Lodge Dinorwig is the place to stay. It’s a converted old school, 14-bed bunkhouse and the kind of place that feels immediately like home. It genuinely is one of the best hostels I’ve stayed in and I regularly use it for Made Wild trips and everyone agrees. Breakfast is included too so definitely check it out if you are looking for somewhere to stay 🤩.

Friday evening

Arrive, dump your bags, and take a load off. Pour something, sit outside if the weather allows, and just look at the view for a bit. Once you’ve sunk into the relaxation of the weekend you could head out for a little walk around Llyn Padarn or Dinorwig Quarry. If you fancy stopping you could grab a drink at The Royal Victoria Hotel or just sit by the lake for a bit. Alternatively you can just stay put, make some food and get ready for a big day of adventure on the Saturday!

Saturday

Eryri has routes for every level and they are all absolutely incredible!

For a beginner-friendly but genuinely rewarding day, the Moel Eilio horseshoe from Llanberis is brilliant. A circular ridge walk with panoramic views of Snowdon and the Menai Strait that most people have never heard of, which means it’s gloriously quiet.

For something more challenging, the Glyderau range above Ogwen is some of the most dramatic mountain terrain in Wales. I guarantee it’s completely unlike anything you’ll have walked before and could have come straight out of Mordor.

Of course, most visitors will want to tackle Yr Wyddfa (Snowdow). Being the tallest mountain in Wales and having six main routes up there is something for everyone. I would recommend the Pyg and Miners paths! Regardless, the atmosphere of the mountain never fails to disappoint me!

After the walk, a pub stop is non-negotiable. The Heights in Llanberis is a solid choice. Unpretentious, good beer, and full of people who’ve had the same kind of day as you. Another favourite of mine which is a little further afield is The Royal Oak in Betws-y-Coed. My go to order is a side of chips for two where the chip is merely a vessel for the copious amounts of ketchup I add to them plus a pint of coke of course!

Most hiking weekends stop at the pub and call it done, which is fine and actually super relaxing. But if you want to actually feel different at the end of the weekend not just tired but genuinely reset make the most of the hard work you’ve put in today and head to the coast or walk around the lake. Sit outside. Read a book. Do something that isn’t staring at your phone.

Sunday

First thing to do on Sunday is get in a lake and embrace the sunrise.

Eryri is almost famous at this point for it’s wild swimming spots and llyn Padarn in Llanberis is right there on your door step. The Lonely Tree if you’ve ever seen it on Instagram is on this lake, with Snowdon rising behind it. A morning swim here, even a short one, even if the water is cold (it will be cold), does something to your nervous system that no amount of coffee manages. You come out of the water feeling genuinely alive in a way that’s hard to manufacture any other way.

If you want the full experience, Sawna Bach is a wood-fired lakeside sauna right on the shores of Llyn Padarn and is one of the best things in North Wales that most people don’t know about. Heat up in the sauna, dip in the lake, repeat. Doing this on a Sunday morning before a long drive home is a genuinely excellent life decision.

If you’ve got the legs for it, after a morning in the lake and a good breakfast drive over to the Ogwen Valley before heading home is absolutely worth it.

Llyn Idwal is about 25 minutes from Dinorwig and it sits in one of the most dramatic valleys in Wales. The lake is flanked by the Glyderau on one side and the Carneddau on the other, with Tryfan, one of the most recognisable mountains in the UK rising straight out of the valley floor in front of you. I’ve heard it described as a cursed cornish pasty but I personally think it looks like a sleeping dragon. It’s the kind of view that makes you pull over and just stand there for a minute. I could probably write an entire Substack on the Idwal but alas you’ll have to join a trip for that 😉.

The walk around the lake itself is short, flat, and completely manageable on tired Sunday legs roughly 3km with virtually no elevation. It follows the lakeshore and gives you big mountain views the entire way without asking anything of you. No navigation required, no serious kit needed, just a good pair of shoes and the ability to appreciate something extremely beautiful (even in bad weather)!

I'll be honest I didn't write this itinerary as a theoretical perfect weekend. This is genuinely how I'd spend 48 hours in Eryri, and it's almost exactly what we're doing on our Hiking & Wellness Retreat in July.

Staying at Lodge Dinorwig which is booked exclusively for us, with a full guided hiking day on Saturday, a paint and sip evening to relax and get to know each other, an EFT and meditation session with Janie (a clinical psychotherapist and hypnotherapist who is brilliant at what she does), a Sunday morning wild swim, all meals included, and a small group of likeminded girls so plenty of laughter guarenteed.

Everything sorted. You just turn up. Don’t miss out!

Only 3 spaces left
17-19 July. £345pp.

BOOK NOW →

Lucy 🩵 xx

Know someone who needs a weekend like this? Share this post or restack it, it genuinely helps more women find the Made Wild community 🏔️

BOOK YOUR TRIP NOW

Ooof, this one always hits hard doesn’t it! I think we can all agree that the biggest moments of growth happen when we say a massive hell yeah to the things that scare us. That being said it’s rare you meet someone who can recklessly throw themselves into everything without an ounce of self doubt. More commonly the niggly voice in our heads saying ‘what if you fail’ or ‘who do you even think you are’ are standing firmly in our way.

I’ve felt that fear an obscene amount of times. When I filmed my first YouTube video*, I was terrified. I literally cried when I saw the footage because I hated the way I sounded. When I was on my first podcast, I was literally shaking and have still never listened to the recording. Every time I’ve stepped into a new challenge whether that was starting hiking having never been on a hill before at 30 and alone, taking up new sports and hobbies despite being the entirely un sporty and overweight one in school or simply being a business owner… I felt that same fear repeatedly. And that is exactly the reason I did them.

The truth is, growth doesn’t happen when we stay in the safety of what we already know as cosy as that place is. It happens when we push beyond the familiar and into the unknown. Maybe for you, stepping outside your comfort zone means showing up for a new class, speaking in front of an audience, or signing up for an adventure you’ve never tried before. Whatever it is, I promise you that saying yes to that fear and pushing through it, will change you in ways you can’t imagine.

*While you all probably know me as a mountain leader, I somehow went from that un sporty and shy girl to a personal trainer and I still very much specialise in calisthenics and spending too much time upside down 😂.

5 Ways to Embrace Discomfort and Grow

Do I get scared?! Yes, of course, but here are some ways I have found to help me get ‘comfortable being uncomfortable’ pardon the cringe quote 👀:

1. Start Small: You don’t have to take on a massive challenge right away. Begin with small, manageable steps that push you just beyond your comfort zone. If public speaking terrifies you, try sharing your thoughts in a small group before addressing a larger audience. If you want to get fitter but feel overwhelmed, start with a short daily walk rather than an intense gym session. Progress happens in tiny, consistent steps.
   

2. Reframe Fear as Excitement: The physical sensations of fear, a racing heart, sweaty palms, and adrenaline are actually the same as excitement. Instead of telling yourself, I’m terrified, try saying, I’m excited for this opportunity. Shifting your mindset can make fear feel like a challenge to embrace rather than a roadblock to avoid.
   

3. Surround Yourself with Support: It’s easier to step outside your comfort zone when you have people cheering you on. Seek out friends, mentors, or communities that encourage growth and understand what you’re going through. Having people remind you that you’re capable and strong can make all the difference when doubt creeps in. This is very much a ‘surround yourself with the right people situation’ which is an entire post in itself!
   

4. Accept That Failure is Part of Growth: Fear of failure holds so many of us back, but failure is often the best teacher. Instead of seeing mistakes as a reason to quit, view them as valuable learning experiences. Every successful person has failed at some point. It’s how they respond to those failures that determines their growth.
   

5. Take Action Before You Feel Ready: You’ll never feel 100% ready to do something new. If you wait for the perfect moment when you feel completely prepared, you’ll end up waiting forever and really that’s procrastination at it’s finest. Take action now, even if it’s messy and imperfect. The confidence and skills will come with experience, but only if you start and get that ball rolling.

So, if you’ve been waiting for a sign to do something that scares you, here it is. If you’re not sure where to start, think about one thing you’ve been hesitating on. Maybe it’s signing up for a course, starting a creative project, or reaching out to someone who inspires you. Commit to taking just one small step toward it today. Even the tiniest action can create momentum, and before you know it, you’ll be looking back proudly at how far you’ve come.

If you’ve been looking for a way to step outside your comfort zone, maybe it’s time to say yes to something outside of the box. Join one of our adventures, where we take on the mountains, learn new skills, make new friends and challenge ourselves in the best way possible. There is literally a trip for everyone regardless of your background, experience and confidence and that’s exactly why I started Made Wild in the first place so take a mooch around!

Go smash it this week and remember, the most dangerous thing isn’t failing, it’s never even trying 🩵.

Lucy xx

Whats Coming Up… Our 2026 Calendar

We’ve got plenty of adventures coming up at Made Wild this year. I’ve just added some more in to make the most of this crazy nice weather we’ve been having and spaces are filling up fast.

Welsh 3000s Over 3 Days - Eryri, N. Wales
- Sunday 14th - Wednesday 17th Jun // 1 space just became available
- Sunday 23rd - Wednesday 26th Aug

Hiking & Wellness Retreat
- Friday 17th - Sunday 19th Jul // 3 spaces remaining

Intro to Scrambling - Eryri, N. Wales
- Saturday 1st - Sunday 2nd Aug
- Saturday 26th - Sunday 27th Sept

Scrambling in the Lake District - Lake District
- Saturday 15th - Sunday 16th Aug // 1 space remaining

The Snowdon Horseshoe - Eryri, N. Wales
- Sunday 30th Aug // Brand New!

Learn to Wild Camp - Lake District National Park
- Friday 11th - Sunday 13th Sept

3 Day Knoydart Expedition - Knoydart, Scottish Highlands
- Friday 2nd - Sunday 4th Oct // 2 spaces left

MORE INFO

Some Highlights From May

May saw us take on lots of adventures including a weekend of intro to hiking in Snowdonia, a Haystacks day hike and a glorious weekend in Glencoe. There were barrels of laughs, lots of fun and plenty of new friends made.

And just a few of my fave summit photos

One of My Favourite Recent Reviews

It honestly brings me so much joy to read all of your reviews. If you’ve been on a trip or have booked on to one, please do leave a Google review to help grow this community of amazing women taking on the world. Here’s a favourite of mine, reminding me why I love to do what I do.

Georgina
★★★★★

“I joined an adventure in Snowdonia with Made Wild Adventures and had the best time. From the moment I arrived, Lucy created such a welcoming and supportive atmosphere. It was also great to meet a lovely group of people I’d never met before, and felt so easy to connect and share the experience together. It was exactly what my soul needed – a proper reset in nature. We spent our days climbing (I was a complete beginner!), taking refreshing open water dips, and exploring some incredible scenery in Wales. I had zero experience with climbing beforehand, but Lucy (and another guide Dave) were fantastic – patient, encouraging, and really good at helping everyone feel safe and capable. The whole experience struck the perfect balance between adventure, challenge, and fun. I came away feeling proud of trying new things, re-energised from being outdoors, and really grateful for the people I met along the way. If you’re even slightly tempted by one of Lucy’s adventures, I’d 100% recommend going for it. It’s such a special experience and I’ll definitely be joining another one in the future. <3”

Made For This

Just a reminder Made For This has just started, and it’s not too late to take part. If you want to join a community of women taking on a 12 week challenge with a group summit day at the end, look no further.

MORE INFO

There is plenty coming up to look forward to including our first overseas trips, navigation awards courses and plenty more trips and adventures with something for everyone so keep your eyes peeled!

Here’s to an amazing June, I hope to see you on one of many Made Wild adventures!

Lucy x

Made for This starts next Monday 1st June 🤩

Twelve weeks of training, building strength, moving more consistently, and working towards something as part of a community of likeminded women that feels bigger than just working out.

I don’t think we need to make life any more complicated than it is right now, so I’ve kept this programme pretty simple.

What you’ll get:

— Three structured workouts per week designed to do at home
— One cardio session per week (no running involved)!
— A guided summit day in Snowdonia
— An exclusive small group alongside you

What you’ll need:

— Minimal equipment
— Around 45 minutes 3x per week
— The last weekend of August free

That’s it!

The sessions are designed to build strength, fitness, and confidence in a way that actually carries over into everyday life and the outdoors because at the end of the twelve weeks, we’ll finish with a group hike together in Snowdonia.

It’ll be a great chance to use everything you’ve built over the summer alongside a group of women doing the same thing, not to mention make a bunch of new friends.

If you missed the original post explaining everything properly, including how the program works, who it’s for, and what’s included, I’ll link that here because it goes into much more detail.

BOOK YOUR SPOT

Sitting on the fence a little bit?… Maybe this is your sign to stop waiting for the perfect time to start because more often than not, confidence comes after you begin. I designed Made For This to be your way in, don’t let fear or doubt stop you, gals!

Eryri Hiking & Wellness Retreat // 17-19 Jul

If you’re just looking for a trip, there are still spots left on our Eryri Hiking & Wellness Retreat… perfect if you feel like you need a weekend in the mountains to move, reset, and feel more like yourself and an opportunity to make new friends.

MORE INFO

See you there!

— Lucy x

If you’ve got any questions, no matter how big or small, drop me an email and I’ll get back to you as soon as I can - madewildadventures@gmail.com

This is the moment.

Made For This is officially open for booking, and I cannot wait to do this with you.

This is the programme I’ve been quietly building for months. Training with a purpose. A mountain to train for. A group of women all in it together. And tonight, it’s real!

BOOK YOUR SPOT

You were made for this.

A quick reminder of what this is

Made For This is a three month guided training programme built to get you strong, fit, and confident for the mountains, finishing with a real guided summit day that you’ll have genuinely earned.

12 weeks. A structured plan delivered through the app. A private group of women all training alongside you, every single day. And at the end, we meet in the mountains and do it together.

Not a generic fitness plan. Training with a destination.

What you’re getting

— A 12-week progressive strength and hiking-fitness plan, delivered through an app, with workouts you can do at home with minimal equipment and only 45 minutes long
— A welcome pack and full programme overview PDF
— Monthly resource guides with training tips, fuelling and recovery advice
— Summit day kit list and prep guide
— A private group chat for the whole 12 weeks
— A group guided summit day, led by me as your qualified Mountain Leader
— My eyes on your training and my support every step of the way

The summit day

This is what every session, every wall sit, every loaded step-up is building toward.

After 12 weeks of training, the group meets in the mountains for a real guided summit day*. Not a casual walk. A bucket-list moment you’ll have properly prepared for and that’s what makes the difference between a day in the hills and a day you’ll remember for the rest of your life.

*Full summit details see below

Is this for you?

Made For This is for you if:

— You want to get properly fit but need a real goal to train toward
— You’ve always wanted to do something like this but didn’t know where to start
— You’re ready to push yourself in a way that actually means something
— You want to be part of a small community of women doing this together
— You want to build the strength, stamina and confidence to stand on top of a mountain, and then actually go and do it

You don’t need to be a runner. You don’t need to be a gym regular. You don’t need to already know what you’re doing. You just need to be willing to show up, consistently, for 12 weeks.

The details

— 12 weeks of training starting 1st June 2026 (next week)!!
— Guided summit day on the last weekend in August in the iconic Snowdonia National Park, North Wales
— 15 spaces maximum
— Founding-member pricing £325 for all of it. The twelve weeks of training. The resources. The community. The guided summit day with me as your Mountain Leader and the memories!

This is a reduced founders pricing and won’t be this price again. If you’ve been on the waitlist or you’ve been quietly thinking maybe one day, this is your day.

BOOK YOUR SPOT

I built Made Wild Adventures because I believe the outdoors is for everyone, and that what stops most women isn’t fitness, or experience, or kit. It’s not having the right way in… Made For This is the way in.

It’s the most complete version of everything I do as a personal trainer and a mountain leader, in one programme, with one summit at the end. I genuinely cannot wait to stand on top of that mountain with you in 12 weeks’ time.

I’ll see you there.

— Lucy x

Questions before you book? Drop me a message at madewildadventures@gmail.com — I read every email!

This is the programme I always wanted to exist. This isn't a generic fitness plan.
It's training with a purpose.

12 weeks of training, a real mountain goal, and a tight knit community of women working toward the same thing at the same time, finishing together on a summit that means something 🥳.

Made For This is where my work as a personal trainer and mountain leader finally meet in one place. It’s not a generic fitness plan. It’s training with a destination.

REGISTER INTEREST

You were made for this.

What is Made For This?

A 3-month guided training programme designed to build your strength, stamina and confidence for the hills, finishing with a real guided mountain summit day that you will have genuinely earned.

Every week you’ll follow a structured programme built specifically for mountain fitness. You’ll be part of a private group of women all doing the same training at the same time, and at the end of 12 weeks we meet in the mountains and do it together.

Starts June 1st - Only 15 spaces available

The Program

What’s included

— 12-week structured training plan delivered via app
— Welcome pack and full programme overview PDF
— Monthly resource guides with training tips and advice
— Hiking nutrition and fuelling guide
— Summit day kit list and preparation guide
— Private group chat throughout the 12 weeks
— Guided summit day led by a qualified Mountain Leader
— My support every step of the way

The Summit Day

After 12 weeks of training, the group meets in the mountains.

This is the moment everything has been building toward. A real mountain, a guided day led by me as your Mountain Leader, and a group of women who trained every step of the way with you.

This isn’t a casual walk. It’s a bucket-list moment you’ll have properly prepared for — and that makes all the difference. Full summit details confirmed on registration.

Are you Made for This?

This programme is for you if:

— You want to get fitter but need a real goal to train toward
— You’ve always wanted to do something like this but didn’t know where to start
— You’re ready to push yourself in a way that feels meaningful
— You want to be part of a community of women doing the same thing
— You want to build the strength, stamina and confidence to stand on top of a mountain, then actually do it (together)!

You don’t need to be a runner or a gym regular. You need to be willing to show up consistently for 12 weeks.

Register Your Interest

This cohort opens on 1 June with just 15 spaces. If you’re interested, register below and you’ll be the first to hear when booking opens.

REGISTER INTEREST

I built Made Wild Adventures to bring together two things I love, fitness training and the mountains for women from all backgrounds and walks of life. This programme is the most complete version of that yet.

I can’t wait to stand on a summit with you at the end of it.

I’ll see you there
— Lucy x

Questions before registering? Drop me a message at madewildadventures@gmail.com.

I know it’s a Sunday but I have a very quick one today, I need your help please! Made Wild has been growing and it’s been so exciting seeing full trips and so many amazing adventures taking place but we have so much more to explore!

I would LOVE to hear your opinions of what the future of Made Wild looks like so if you have a minute or two today it would be ahhh-mazing if you could share your thoughts on this survey!

TAKE THE SURVEY HERE 🩵

You can be totally honest, I’m all ears!

Thank you so much for being part of this community. I can’t wait to see what we build together.

See you in the mountains,
Lucy x

PS. Here’s some upcoming trips you might be interested in 👇🏻

It’s relentlessly dramatic, moody, and wild whilst still being effortlessly beautiful and awe inspiring (no I didn't use ChatGPT to write this - I just have a soft spot for it)!

If you’re heading there and want to make the most of your time, here’s are the hikes and mountains you must add to that bucket list!

Tackle the Buachaille

This is undoubtably a mountain you’ve seen, even if you don’t realise it.

Buachaille Etive Mòr (pronounced buckle ehh-tive more) is one of Scotland’s most iconic peaks. The hike up to Stob Dearg is rocky and steep, but the payoff is huge. It has a personal soft spot in my heart because it was my first ever Munro (via the grade 3 scramble called Curved Ridge).

Why is it so popular? Well, it dominates the entrance to Glencoe and once on top the views on a clear day are incredible. It’s worth the effort and is a great day out, plus you get to bag two Munros (Scottish mountains over 3000ft).

Distance: ~8km
Time: 5–7 hours
Elevation: ~980m
Effort: Hard

Route: Stob Dearg via Buachaille Etive Mòr

Buachaille Etive Beag

I’m ashamed to say that I overlooked this baby sister of the mighty Buachaille Etive Mor for many year until last week when I decided to finally tick of my last two munro’s in Glen Coe! I actually loved it and it is the perfect day out if you’re looking for easy navigation and beautiful views of Bidean and the Buachaille!

The trail starts off super easy walking through the glen before heading steeply towards the bealach between two Munros Stob Dubh and Stob Coire Raineach.

Distance: ~8.5km
Time: 5 hrs
Elevation: ~900m
Effort: Moderate

Route: Stob Dubh and Stob Coire Raineach

Pap of Glencoe and Sgorr nam Fiannaidh

The Pap of Glencoe is a well-known feature near the glen's western end and Loch Leven. The second peak, Sgorr nam Fiannaidh is craggy and beautiful and also the Western munro of the famous Aonach Eagach Ridge which is famous for being the narrowest ridge line in mainland UK. The view of it’s twisting and steep paths are quite the view!

With quite a lot of elevation gain, and some rocky ground to cover, this provides a good challenging day out without being too technical and the bonus of beautiful views as a reward (after all we are talking about Glen Coe).

The approach to the top of the Pap is boggy and marshy which makes reaching the rocky and craggy summit somewhat of a relief. From here, the trail then drops slightly before heading back up to the summit of the Sgorr nam Fiannaidh. From here, you will be treated to beautiful views out across Loch Leven and down Glen Coe.

Though this is an out-and-back route, there is an alternative descent down the western flank of Sgorr nam Fiannaidh, which cuts out the Pap of Glen Coe because no one loves a unnecessary re-summit, and lands you right back at the car park.

Distance: ~11km
Time: 6-7 hours
Elevation: ~1100m
Effort: Moderate (steep in sections)

Route: Pap of Glencoe and Sgorr nam Fiannaidh

The Lost Valley (Coire Gabhail)

Although this is a well know walk it still feels like a bit of a secret! Tucked between the towering ridges of Bidean nam Bian, the Lost Valley was once used by the Clan MacDonald to hide stolen cattle but now just feels like a secret hideaway!

Heading up alongside a river it eventually opens out into a wide, hidden valley that feels completely cut off from the world. This would also be an epic wild camping spot, amongst many in Glencoe but also is the start point of tackling the highest mountain in Glencoe, Bidean Nam Bian. If you’re up for that adventure, check out below!

Distance: ~5km
Time: 2 hours
Elevation: ~300m
Effort: Easy

Route: Coire Gabhail (The Lost Valley)

Stob Coire Sgreamhach, Bidean nam Bian, and Stob Coire nan Lochan

So, you fancy the highest peak in Glencoe? Then this is iconic and exceptionally strenuous scramble circuit for you! You get a bit of everything on this route from scrambling, scree and actual paths. The three ridges that extend north from the mountain are known as the Three Sisters of Glen Coe which no doubt you would have heard of as they are jaw dropping as you weave your way through the valley.

Distance: ~12km
Time: 7-8 hours
Elevation: ~1200m
Effort: Hard

Route: Stob Coire Sgreamhach, Bidean nam Bian, and Stob Coire nan Lochan

Glen Coe Must Do’s

As we all know every good hike ends at a pub and there is nowhere else you’d rather be in the evening than with your fellow hikers at the Clachaig. With live music and nestled at the base of the mountains it’s a great way to finish the day!

It’s hard to miss the ‘wee white house of Glencoe’ aka the Lagangarbh Hut at the base of Buachaille Etive Mor. Once an old crofting home it’s now a working mountaineering hut but also a beautiful photo op. You’ll be able to see it up close when you hike the Buachaille as the route runs right past it!

If you’re interested in the history of the area, the Glencoe Visitor Centre is a great place to find out more information about the horrific history in the area 👀.

Of Course…

Make sure you’re prepared. Glencoe is beautiful and popular but these are some serious mountains and preparation is crucial. Phone signal is not reliable so making sure you have downloaded and paper maps is necessary. The weather can change quickly so make sure you have plenty of clothes, waterproofs and emergency gear with you just in case.

Whether you’re ticking off summits or just wandering through the glens, Glencoe will leave a stamp on your heart for long after you leave. Some of my happiest memories are in this little slice of paradise and it is truly a bucket list location worth ticking off!

If reading this has made you want to go but you’d rather not plan it all yourself then check out the Glencoe Hiking Weekend in May .

It’s a classic mountain weekend staying in the wee white house of Glencoe, ticking off some of these routes with good people, a trip to the Clachaig and the kind of experience that actually lets you switch off and enjoy where you are. You’re job is just to turn up and relax amongst the mountains.

If that doesn’t convince you… Henry Cavill is currently there filming for Highlander 😉

SEE DETAILS HERE

If I don’t see you there, I’ll see you in the mountains!
Lucy x

Eryri never fails to remind me why I do this and just how passionate I am about sharing this all with as many of you as possible, so I wanted to share a little more about what the wonderful mountains of Snowdonia have to offer.

The One Everyone Talks About (For Good Reason)

It’s hard to write about scrambling here without mentioning Crib Goch. And yes, it is as good as people say.

Crib Goch is a narrow, knife-edged ridge with drops on either side with exposure that makes you slow down and really think about each step. It’s technically “just” a Grade 1 scramble, but that label can be a little misleading. It’s not the difficulty that makes it memorable, it’s the exposure, the length, and the fact that once you’re on it, you’re committed. It’s one of those routes that asks for your full attention and in return, gives you one of the best days you can have in the mountains.

Crib Goch is dubbed as the UK’s most dangerous ridge line. It’s also part of the route on some of my Welsh 3000s trips and scrambling days. In my humble opinion, if you’re going to experience it for the first time, it makes sense to do it properly, with the right conditions and a bit of guidance behind you giving you every opportunity to experience this magnificent scramble in the best way possible.

I recently put together a short video on it that might give you a better sense of the ridge than words ever will.

The Ones That Often Get Overlooked

While Crib Goch gets the attention, Eryri is full of incredible Grade 1 scrambles that offer just as much enjoyment. Depending on the weather or time limits, you may want to opt for one of the below instead.

Tryfan North face

If Crib Goch is about exposure, Tryfan is about movement. The North Ridge is one of the most classic scrambles in the UK. It’s hands-on from early on, with endless route choices and little problems to solve as you go. There’s no single “correct” way up here and it can be the perfect introduction to scrambling especially if you’re a little nervous but still want something that feels like an adventure.

Last weekend on our intro to scrambling weekend we scaled the stunning Tryfan North Face.

Bristly Ridge – Glyder Fach

Bristly Ridge feels like a step up since it’s a bit more structured and a bit more “scrambly” in the traditional sense. You’ll find gullies, blocks, and short sections that ask you to think a little more carefully about foot placement. It’s still Grade 1, but it leans more into the climbing side of things. If you’re looking for a bigger day out, it can be great to link Bristly Ridge with Tryfan to give you that extra something.

Y Gribin – Glyder Fach/Glyder Fawr

I feel like Y Gribin is less talked about and so can be a quieter line with less people around, but don’t be fooled, it’s just as enjoyable. Y Gribin is a long, steady ridge that builds gradually. It’s less intense than Crib Goch and less technical than Bristly, but it still gives you that feeling of being on the mountain rather than just walking up it. It’s a great option if you want something a bit more relaxed but still interesting.

This is the ridge line we took up on our intro to scrambling course last Saturday and it gave every bit atmospheric/games of thrones-y and epic vibes whilst still being a perfect and scalable grade I scramble!

Crib Lem – Carneddau

Crib Lem is another one that tends to fly under the radar, but it’s a really lovely way to experience scrambling in Eryri. Set above Cwm Llafar in the Carneddau, it has a very different feel to somewhere like Tryfan or the Glyders, as it’s more open.

As with any other grade 1 scramble, you’ll use your hands here and there, picking your way along the ridge, but it’s not constant. It’s a good route if you want something that sits gently between walking and scrambling without demanding too much too soon.

Daear Ddu Ridge – Moel Siabod

Daear Ddu Ridge is a greatconfidence-building ridge that introduces you to grade 1 scrambling without throwing you straight into exposure. It’s a great place to get comfortable using your hands, moving over rock, and understanding how your body works in that environment. The summit of Moel Siabod doesn’t disappoint either 🤩

So Where Do You Start?

All in all, Eryri never disappoints. Sure, I’ve experienced some pretty bad weather, but I can hand on my heart say that I’ve never come away feeling like I’ve had a bad day there, it just gets even more enjoyable each time I go back. It really is the gift that keeps on giving and one that I’d love to share with you all.

Inspired to try it for yourself? We have one space left on our intro to scrambling course in June and 3 left on our Lake District trip in August… or maybe you fancy the Welsh 3000s 👀 (just saying 😇)!

Upcoming Trips

Lucy xx

If you found this post useful or enjoyed it, I would be so grateful if you shared it or restacked it. It helps more people find the Made Wild Adventures community… Thank you!

I’ve was out in Eryri last week and it sure is looking beautiful in it’s Spring clothes! It’s definitely got me excited for this guiding season and I can’t wait to meet those of you that have already booked up and would love for you to join us if you haven’t 🤩. As always, if you’ve got any questions, no matter how big or small, I’m always here to answer them.

So here is your May, June and beyond sorted… and just a heads up, there are very limited spaces remaining on many of the trips now!

Last week playing around the South side of Tryfan

Intro to Scrambling

📍Snowdonia, North Wales // 18-19 Apr FULLY BOOKED & 6-7 June (2 Spaces Available)

For when hiking starts to feel comfortable, and you’re ready to move a little more through the landscape. Think ridges, hands-on movement, and a different way of experiencing the mountains. Level up your hiking and take on some grade 1 scrambles (woohoo, so much fun)!

‘The group size perfect for the hike, and for many of us, it was our first time scrambling. It was such a fun experience and I never felt stressed as we had mountain guide who led us along the route. I’m already planning my next scramble. Wales was stunning, and the hostel we stayed in was beautiful. I’m also hoping to stay in touch with everyone I met. Overall, it was an unforgettable experience!’
- Kim

Beginners Mountain Skills Weekend

📍Snowdonia & Peak District // 8-10 May & 7-9 Aug (2 spaces left on each)

A perfect starting point if you’re not quite sure where to begin. A couple of days to learn the foundations. We’ll learn navigation, pacing, what to pack and to realise that the mountains don’t require as much as they sometimes seem but also have heaps of fun too!

‘I had an absolutely wonderful time in Snowdonia with the girls. I was quite anxious beforehand since I’m quite introverted and had never done anything like this before. However, everyone was incredibly friendly and easygoing, which made me feel super comfortable. Lucy, our host, was so genuine and upbeat—I’m really glad I decided to join’
- Emily

BEGINNER MOUNTAIN SKILLS WEEKEND

Glencoe Hiking Adventure Weekend

📍Glencoe, Scottish Highlands // 29-31 May

Get immersed in the highlands and explore the incredible mountains of Glencoe while staying in the iconic ‘wee white house of Glencoe’ Lagangarbh hut.

‘I am someone that would happily go shoulder to shoulder on a mixed course when it comes down to it but the women’s only definitely takes away some of the worry of keeping up when it’s something you’ve never done before and don’t know what to expect. You really fostered a great atmosphere and were really fun and relaxing to be around, thanks again!’
- Charlie

SEE MORE DETAILS

Haystacks Lake District Day Hike

📍Lake District National Park // 23 May

Fancy joining for just a single day? This is a chance to step into the mountains, walk a classic route (one of my faves), and experience the beauty of the Lake District National Park.

Welsh 3000s (over 3 Days)

📍Snowdonia, North Wales // 14-17 June (2 Spaces Available) & 3-5 Jul FULLY BOOKED

A bigger challenge, for those who want it. Three days moving through one of the UK’s most iconic mountain landscapes. The kind of experience that will stay with you long after. For those looking for something extra spicy check out the Welsh 3000s Challenge (completed in just 24 hours)!

WELSH 3000S OVER 3 DAYS

Women’s Hiking & Wellness Weekend

📍Eryri National Park, North Wales // 17-19 July

A slower kind of weekend with time to move, reset, and feel more like yourself again. Think hiking, mindfullness, sip and paint, wild swimming and of course hiking! All whilst being alongside a group of like-minded women who are there for the same reason. It’s a total escape weekend with accommodation and all food included so you literally just have to turn up!

‘The group size was ideal, the hike was good for mixed abilities but still allowed room for a little challenge - the poll beforehand helped get an idea of what to expect. Location/accommodation both exceeded my expectations and I loved that breakfast was included too so we could all eat and enjoy a morning coffee together’
- Roisin

SEE ALL DETAILS

Learn to Wild Camp Weekend

📍Eryri, N. Wales // 26-28 Jun

Ever felt fomo seeing all those stunning sunrise videos from a tent or wanted to spend a night out under the stars but don’t know where to start... here’s your opportunity! Learn everything you need to know for a comfortable and safe wild camp and spend an evening in the hills.

LEARN TO WILDCAMP

A Quick Reminder

You absolutely don’t need to be “outdoorsy” to join these trips.
Made Wild adventures are:

• Women-only and genuinely supportive

• Focused on confidence, learning, and enjoyment

• Designed to help you feel capable and comfortable outdoors

• Suitable for beginners and improvers (even those who have never hiked before)

• Solo adventurers looking to make friends

If you’re unsure which trip is right for you, just drop me an email at madewildadventures@gmail.com, I’m always happy to help you choose!

There are also plenty more trips throughout the year, there is something for everyone so go have a mooch over on the website And if spreading the cost makes things easier, payment options like Klarna or Clearpay are available!

BOOK YOUR TRIPS HERE 🥾

Hope to see you out there soon,
Lucy x

Unlike the people who perfectly match their outfits and somehow look effortlessly cool at a trig point, I’m usually covered in mud and sweat… and I love it.

Because what gets me into this state is fun, exhilarating and challenging. Moving, climbing, slipping about, laughing, getting out of breath. The fact that hiking up a mountain will leave you at of breath regardless of how ‘fit’ or ‘unfit’ you are is a hill I will die on (theoretically only)!

And yet I think that’s exactly what stops a lot of people actually getting out there. There’s a belief you have to be fit and fast to get outdoors, especially in a group environment but Ive been hiking for years now and:

1. Regular fitness just doesn’t translate to mountain fitness

2. Groups move at a much slower and more relaxed pace than you think

3. If you’re out of breath walking up a hill, good! You’re a normal human being.

So let me de-infuence you about what it means to be mountain fit because going to the gym, training, running and lifting heavy weights doesn’t quite translate…

I’ve dragged friends who are much fitter and stronger than me up mountains and seen them humbled and vice versa people who have never stepped foot in the gym who seemingly could be mistaken for being a mountain goat. Getting fit and being ‘mountain fit’ aren’t quite the same thing and that’s why hiking always feels hard(ish).

Fitness, in the way most of us think about it, is quite controlled and predictable. You know how long you’re training for, what movement you’re doing, and when you get to stop. The floor is flat, the environment doesn’t change, and nothing unexpected really happens.

So Why Is The Outdoors Different?

It’s uneven ground that kicks your stable your squats booty. It’s moving for longer than you’re used to, at a pace that isn’t set by a timer or a playlist. It’s carrying things, constantly adjusting, reacting and paying attention to your surroundings. It’s not to say these things don’t help, of course there’s a case for gym fitness but…

It always blows my mind (and I think about this literally every time I’m out hiking) about how many calculation and micro adjustments your body makes when simply walking down a rocky path. Then add into that the ability to keep going when you’re a bit tired, a bit uncomfortable and you’re probably being pelted with rain and suddenly you realise that that is hard to recreate in the gym.

Often, it’s the things people don’t train for that matter most. Things like:

• Your feet, adjusting constantly to uneven ground.

• Your hips, stabilising without you thinking about it.

• Your ability to move efficiently, not just forcefully.

None of it is particularly flashy or glamorous, but all of it counts. And maybe that’s the shift you need. Realising that if your goal is to feel more capable outside, the answer isn’t just doing more of the same in the gym and that you don’t have to worry about being fit ‘enough’ to start hiking.

It’s making your training a little less perfect, a little less controlled and getting outdoors a bit more. A bit more reflective of the environments you actually want to move through.

Sure, I believe fitness gives you a base, and there are so many benefits to every form of training (after all I would be the worst personal trainer ever if I thought otherwise) but capability is something you build when you start stepping outside of it, quite literally. Don’t let the fact that walking upstairs in your house leaves you out of breath, it does for me too and I regularly say to Josh this cannot be the same body that carries me up mountains 😂. I will remind you again that walking up hill will raise your heart rate and make you breathe harder, that is normal!

In my personal experience, sometimes hikes feel like a dream and I feel I could take on the Cape Wrath Trail like it’s a walk in the park and then other’s I randomly have such bad DOMs I am crawling around the next day wondering if my body will ever recover… it’s all part of the fun and while regular ‘fitness’ and ‘mountain fitness’ are different things they can absolutely go hand in hand just don’t get hung up on being ready enough for either.

The best thing to do is just get out there and start, doing the damn thing will benefit you so much more than anything and lucky for you there are plenty of beginner friendly (louder for those at the back - beginner friendly!) trips and hikes coming up 👇🏻.

UPCOMING TRIPS

I’ll see you out there crew,
Lucy xx

A cute ‘wee’ white house, sitting perfectly beneath a mountain that feels far too big for it. The kind of place you’ve probably seen in plenty of Instagram posts or if you’re lucky enough, in passing through a car window. Either way, it’s one of those places that sticks somewhere in the back of your mind without ever quite realising where it was, or what it might feel like to actually be there.

Lagangarbh Hut sits at the foot of Buachaille Etive Mòr, tucked into the landscape in a way that almost feels accidental, as though it’s simply been left there and the mountains have grown up around it. But the burning question that’s on everyone’s minds when they pull off the road to photograph it (because yes there is always a crowd) is whole really lives there?!

Well there truth is no one. It was once a croft house, something ordinary and lived-in, and over time it became a place for walkers and climbers to stay after a long day hiking. It’s a simple base in the middle of a landscape that doesn’t feel simple at all, and that’s what I love about it.

It’s not remote in the way you might think. You don’t have to go searching for hours to find it. It’s there, just off the road, easy to reach. It’s simple inside with shared spaces, bunks and a place to cook.

There’s also something about sharing it with other people. Trust me, when those boots come off after a long day of hiking, it’s just the place you need to sit with a whisky in hand, drying your things after a day outside whilst you have a laugh with likeminded people and hearing some amazing stories. It’s nothing complicated, but that’s the point. You’ve come to enjoy a weekend in the mountains and Lagangarbh Hut offers you that welcome respite, simply offering a chance to rest, fuel up and get going again the next day. You wake up, step outside, and the mountains are already there. The absolute ideal scenario if you ask me.

Let’s not confuse things, it’s a simple kind of experience, and I know I’m a little biased here, but I’d say it’s definitely one for the bucket list. I have so many great stories from staying in Lagangarbh myself from taking photos out of the window just for tourists to come up and peak straight into the window and directly down my camera lens to meeting all sorts of wonderful people with plenty of stories to make the night go by quickly (and we haven’t even mentioned that the famous Clachaig Inn is only five minutes up the road for a good old Scottish ‘knees up’ in the evening). When I say it holds a place in my heart, Josh and I stopped here after getting engaged in Knoydart as the area means so much to us both.

So, if you’ve ever noticed that little white house and wondered what it might be like to actually stay there and spend a bit more time in that landscape, rather than just passing through, I’ll be heading back there again very soon and you can come and join me. Just a small group of gals, a couple of days in the Scottish Highlands, and time to experience it properly. We’ll be spending two days hiking someone of the classic routes in Glencoe and staying in this little slice of history.

It’s not somewhere just anyone can book, which makes it feel even more special to spend time in the most photographed house in the Scotland and exploring the incredible mountains it calls it’s home!

📍Glencoe Hiking Adventure Weekend
Glen Coe, Scottish Highlands // 29-31 May ‘26

Included:

• Guided mountain hikes with a qualified leader meaning no stress. Just

  turn up and enjoy (perfect for beginner hikers)!

• Two authentic mountain hut nights at the iconic Lagangarbh Hut, right in the heart of Glencoe

• Learn hiking skills as you go, while exploring one of the most beautiful and iconic areas in the Scottish Highlands

• A relaxed, women-only group, perfect if you’re coming solo and want to meet like-minded people

• A proper Scottish mountain weekend… fresh air, big views, and a bit of challenge

• Photos from the weekend so you don’t have to worry about capturing it all yourself

SEE TRIP DETAILS

Still not sure if this is for you? Message me directly on madewildadventures@gmail.com and I’ll get back to you asap or check out our FAQs page!

Hopefully I’ll see you in Scotland but in the meantime have a great weekend crew!

Lucy xx