Seeking Out The Snow

A couple of weeks ago the entire country seemed to get snow, even the South East, and yet somehow South Yorkshire missed out. Unable to accept that I would be one of the few people to not get any, I went in search of it in the Peak District, with another pre-sunrise trip up Mam Tor. I'm getting very used to the scramble up hills at break neck speed in the dark these days, but the slushy wet snow towards the bottom of the valley was an entirely new challenge this time and certainly slowed me down a wee bit, but the sight of the imposing white tops all around (Kinder, Rushup Edge and Mam Tor) means you know it's going to be worth it. There's something about snow capped peaks which makes them appear twice as big as they really are - and it's a really special feeling knowing that you are one of very few who will be witnessing them in that predawn partial light. 

After a long wait for the sun I wandered down towards Hollins Cross as the sun first popped up and out from behind the few clouds low on the horizon, making the most of the golden light bathing one side of the ridge which stretches out in front. 

It was here that I met two other photographers - making a nice change from the last time I was up there amongst the 30 odd others - who were both very friendly (one of  these two is quite famous around these parts and I've seen loads of his images before - Harsharn Gill). After having a chat and heading back up towards the peak, we parted ways before I doubled back on myself again to head back down along the ridge towards Back Tor, Lose Hill and, ultimately, Hope for the train home.

Light just before sunrise, with the moon above Mam Tor

This is my first ever attempt at this gate shot, probably one of the most famous views in the Peak. 

Gale force winds, not only enough to blow you off your feet but also meant constant lens wiping was needed.

Looks like something off The Snowman

Who wouldn't want to be up early on a morning for views like these.