About us

Summitreks has been delivering Outdoor Adventure Activities since 1987 when it was founded by co-directors Ron Rutland and Hilary Mills. Since then Summitreks has grown to be the premier independent activity provider in the Lake District . It also operates a network of outdoor stores with branches in Ambleside, Coniston and Hawkshead.

Ron and Hilary have shared a passion for the great outdoors all their lives. They are keen and active hill walkers, climbers and skiers. Their love of the outdoors has taken them all over the world and for Ron this includes joining expeditions to the Himalaya and Everest culminating in a successful ascent of Mansulu (8165 mtrs) in 2008. Ron is planning to return to the Himalayas in 2010. He will be joining an International team of climbers whose objective is to climb Makalu the 5th highest peak in the world.

Ron and Hilary come from a background in teaching and leading outdoor activities; both are qualified instructors. The professional experience they jointly share is a key factor in the success of Summitreks. They understand the needs of their clients and customers and are committed to delivering the highest standards of tuition, supervision and safety. They are supported by a team of highly experienced, fully qualified professional instructors.

Summitreks Adventure Centre is situated on the shores of Coniston Water in the heart of the Lake District National Park.  From Summitreks main base in Coniston we can deliver Summitreks activity programmes and courses anywhere in the Lake District.  All activities at Summitreks are licensed by the Adventure Activities Licensing Service and approved by Cumbria Tourism under their ROAM accreditation scheme.