Epping Forest Exploration (11km)

10:30am SUNDAY 3rd of MARCH 2024

Join the ACAI Outdoorsing Club as we get together for one of the best natural hikes in London. This hike is being led by Hiking Guide Kate Capelli, Founder of women's adventure community Adventuress in the Wild

This is a 'Must do' London hike.

This route will not only take us through Epping Forest, but also out into the countryside beyond. You won't believe that we are still in London!

Highlights:

A walk through beautiful ancient woodland
Country pub stop post hike
Meet like-minded women on a great day out

Meeting point:

Meeting in the morning at the entrance of Theydon Bois tube station which can be accessed via the Central line.
Important - The hike starts promptly at 10:30am so please aim to arrive on time. You must be shown on the attendees list to join the hike as we have limited numbers.

If driving:

If coming by car, you can park at the station using the PayByPhone app (recommended to set up the app prior to the day)

The hike
Distance: 11km
Elevation Gain: 160m
Difficulty: Easy
Pub: Not a guarantee on this one but we will try!

*Following heavy rains and during winter months, this hike can be notoriously boggy, so everybody is encouraged to wear hiking boots and come ready to have a laugh!*

I am nervous to join alone

Most of the Acai events are attended by solo women, and they usually confess to being nervous to join us for the first time, so you already have something in common! We make a great effort to get everybody involved and talking so nobody will feel left out :) Our walks are at a relaxed pace

What should I bring?

Winter Hiking Essentials

Warm and waterproof layers (Base thermal layers- Mid layer such as a fleece – Outer layers such as a waterproof jacket)
Hiking leggings or trousers (Avoid jeans or any absorbent material)
Hiking boots (For winter hiking we advise strongly against trainers. We will occasionally be hiking through thick mud and boggy ground)
Spare warm layers
Warm gloves, hat and scarf
Lunch & Snacks
Something to sit on for when we stop (The ground will be wet)
Spending money for pub stop
At least 1 litre of water
A bag for your rubbish
Umbrella
Pack cover or dry bag liners
Basic First Aid items

Is this hike challenging?

This hike is suitable for beginners. You must be comfortable with walking up to 3.5 hours. We will stop for a break if weather permits. Following heavy rains this trail can become very muddy and slippery but your guide will be there to help you through

Food

We pass by a Tesco Express at thr start of the hike. There will be a potential optional pub stop at the end of the hike (subject to available seating) If it is raining heavily we will not stop so please bring snacks to eat on the go

Will we hike if it’s raining?
Yes! Bring your waterproofs