Discover
Inspire
Together
I didn't drift into the mountains.
I chose them.
After 31 years in senior corporate roles, leading teams and juggling life as a single working mum, I realised I wanted something different…
My Story
For 31 years I worked in senior corporate roles, leading teams and juggling life as a single working mum. I became very good at holding everything together — work, home, responsibility, expectation.
​
But my calm was always found in the hills.
​
Walking gave me space to breathe, to think clearly, to feel steady again. And over time, I realised something important: I didn’t want the hills to be my escape. I wanted them to be my life.
​
So at 53, I made a deliberate decision. I stepped away from a long-established corporate career and committed fully to becoming a professional Mountain Leader — not as a retirement hobby, but as a bold new chapter.
​
By February 2022, I was leading my first paid event.
​
Since then, more than 200 women have joined me on the fells to build and refine their navigation skills. I’ve laughed under the stars on wild camps, guided classic Lakeland routes, and watched countless women surprise themselves with what they’re capable of.
​
What began in the Lake District has taken me further afield — guiding in Europe and Malaysia, and this year to Bali. And when I’m not guiding, I’m still out there myself — rucksack on, backpacking across Asia — proving to myself (and hopefully to others) that adventure doesn’t come with an age limit.
Why GingerRoutes Exists
​
In those early days of guiding, I noticed something quietly powerful. ​The women naturally gravitated towards one another. There was encouragement, honesty, humour and that shared sense of “maybe I can.”
​
I created GingerRoutes deliberately to nurture that space — professionally guided, structured and encouraging — where women can stretch beyond their comfort zones without pressure or performance.
​
I was once the woman juggling everything, wondering if I was being brave enough. I’m still that woman — just with a little more confidence and a rucksack packed. ​And if I’ve learned anything, it’s this:
​
You don’t have to change your whole life overnight, but you can choose your next brave step.
​
My Approach
​
My leadership background never left me — it simply shifted terrain. I bring calm judgement, structure and encouragement to the hills. You won’t be rushed. You won’t be made to feel small.
You’ll be guided in a way that builds real confidence — the kind that follows you home.
​
Because GingerRoutes isn’t just about walking mountains. It’s about discovering that you’re capable of more than you thought — at any stage of life.
​
Discover | Inspire | Together
Thank you so much for a fabulous day, lovely bunch of ladies. Thanks Nicola for your guidance and going above and beyond, highly recommended!
Dee Bosward
What you can expect from me: A great welcome, fun, lots of support and and warmth as you explore the best mountains in the Lake District and discover what you’re capable of.
So get ready and come out with me for an exciting day and get ready to push a few boundaries! Rest easy knowing you’re in safe hands at all times:
-
Qualified Mountain Leader
-
Advanced Outdoor First aid trained
-
Public liability insurance
-
Safety and risk assessments
-
GDPR compliant
Book now for a warm, friendly welcome and a well-planned outing.
