A quick heads-up – this is going to be something of a rant piece, I’m afraid. I generally don’t write many highly-charged pieces, instead preferring to deal with topics in a more level-headed (usually, offline) way. But on this occasion, I feel compelled to say something more publicly – because a recent experience really… well… riled me.
Ok, so here’s the thing.
I know that a lot of you reading this are big fans of the outdoors; that stands to reason, of course. I also know that the majority of readers will invariably be decent, thoughtful and considerate people who understand that there is a right way and a wrong way to enjoy their time in the hills, down by the water, exploring in the forest, wherever.
Sadly, though, there exists a cross-section of our community who ‘just don’t get it’. Some people would refer to these individuals as… ahem… ‘idiots’ (feel free to insert your expletive of choice), but I am far too diplomatic to enter into such name-calling, tempting as it may be.
If I was to take the low road, however, I wonder what would be the correct terminology for the person/people who left this lovely display for members of the public to enjoy in a local woodland?
This was the scene that greeted me when I popped along to one of my favourite local spots one morning recently. The bags hanging from the branches would have been enough, but added to this were two large still-smoldering fires, discarded clothing in the undergrowth and plastic cutlery dotted about the ground. All on show and close to a path frequently used by families and dog-walkers.
I’m going to take a stab in the dark here and suggest that the key protagonists were out to enjoy what they thought was a microadventure. But for the uninitiated, let me tell you – this is NOT the way to have a microadventure.
Done correctly, a microadventure is a delightful thing, a wonderful getaway from the stresses of modern life, if but for one night. A chance to enjoy great company and the great outdoors – in a way which leaves no trace on the landscape. You do NOT leave your dirty crap in a woodland for others to pick up and deal with (that’s what I did, taking it with me to deposit in the waste bin which, would you believe, is right by the entrance/exit to the woods?!). Pure idleness.
Fire up Twitter and search #microadventure. What do you see? Folk having wonderful days out and nights under the stars. Most travel light, picking their kit carefully, recording their experiences via photographs and video; this is often then shared with likeminded individuals as a way to inspire and encourage others to do the same.
Grab your rucksack, fill it with a few essentials for a comfortable night and take everything (including any waste) away with you. Really not such a difficult concept, is it?
Aside from the blatant disrespect for our beautiful countryside, here’s what really gets me. Wild camping – often the backbone of microadventures – is technically illegal here in the UK (apart from in certain areas). So, whilst it does go on all the time, if you are going to do head out for an overnighter, there are a few unwritten rules which you should adhere to if the practise is to be tolerated. This will also help your chances of remaining undisturbed by passers-by*
Please don’t let your own buffoonery spoil it for the rest of us.
If you choose to set up a fixed shelter for more comfort, for example using a tarp and bivi like in the picture above, you can do so without making any lasting impact on the land around you. In this setup, the only way you would have known I spent the night in that woodland was the fact that there remained a dry patch where the ground had been protected from rain. You can find out more about the kit I used for that particular trip here.
So, my parting thoughts on this…
Please – don’t be an idiot. Think about the location where you intend to have your microadventure. Be sensible, think about others, leave no trace. With these points taken care of, all that remains for you to do is to have fun!
If you’d like to hear more about what microadventure is really all about, you can take a listen to my conversation with Alastair Humphreys, who many of you know is the man behind the drive to encourage people to get outdoors and enjoy these little trips.
* For the record, if you’re nervous at the thought of pitching up in areas where you might get spotted, I would always suggest seeking permission ahead of time. For example, if you know the a woodland along your route is privately owned, get in touch with the owner and make it clear that your intentions are good and that you will respect their land. The same goes for farmers, who will often let you pitch late in the day in a corner of a field, so long as you make an early start the following morning and don’t upset the livestock.
I would really love to hear your thoughts about the topic discussed here. I’m sure I’m not alone on this one, so please do say a few words in the comments section below.
