Try it this summer

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■ BACKPACKING

The ultimate adventurous getaway, involving just you, a pair of boots, a big rucksack, a tent, a camping stove and the great outdoors. Mountain accommodation will be like gold dust this summer, so it’s the perfect time to turn your usual cottage break into that backpacking trip you’ve always wanted to do.

■ VIA FERRATA

Originating in the saw-toothed peaks of the Italian Dolomites, via ferrata (above) involves climbing sheer rock faces using a network of cables, steel rungs and ladders, with safety provided by a harness around your waist attached to a pair of stretchy carabiners. Good locations to try it in the UK are Honister, Kinlochleven and How Stean Gorge.

■ TRAIL RUNNING

This is about as free and easy as you can get in the UK mountains and is one of the fastest growing sports in the world. If you’re already a local runner, why not mix it with your love of walking in the mountains by swapping your boots for trainers. Check out the final section of the 100-page Gear Guide that comes free with this issue for tips on buying beginner trail running kit.

■ GHYLL SCRAMBLING

One of the most exciting ways to make your way uphill is by following a stream or river. And by following, we mean getting your boots and hands wet by scrambling over rocks and through fast-running water. Stickle Ghyll in Langdale is a great example of this, where you can create your route as you go, making it as easy or tough as you like.

■ WILD SWIMMING

Rivers, tarns, lochs, llyns, waterfalls, remote beaches… the British mountains are full of awesome places to cool off during or after a hillwalk. If you’ve never tried wild swimming before and want to do more than just dip your toes in, make sure you read all the relevant safety advice first.