Thursday 9 December 2010
North West Scotland Inspiration
If, like me, you are in need of something to inspire you to get out more these days, have a look at this article . There are some fantastic images.
Tuesday 30 November 2010
Beinn a'Chleibh
On Sunday, Ralph and I set out to climb Beinn a'Chleibh, having missed doing it earlier in the year with the club, after doing Ben Lui. When we left Oban, the weather was dull, but OK. Towards Taynuilt, we could see what I thought was cloud, but when we got nearer, it turned out to be snow. However, the roads were clear, so we carried on.
Not wanting to get our feet wet on such a cold day, we decided to use the foot-bridge to cross the River Lochy. The snow was several centimetres deep and was still coming down. After an unplanned tour of the forest, and an awkward burn crossing, we emerged on to the hill and headed up Fionn Choirein to the col between Beinn a'Chleibh and Ben Lui. Although the snow was soft, there were patches of ice, so we donned crampons. Going up the coire, we could see what looked like sand storms swirling around, but of course were snow not sand. It was impossible to avoid them, and when in them it was not very nice. The snow was coming and going, but the wind was getting stronger.
After the col, we just made a bee-line for the summit, from where we could only see snow. Coming back the same way, the wind was ferocious and nearly blew us off our feet at one point. And together with the snow made for intermittent white-outs.
But apart from snow stinging our eyes, the descent was uneventful.
Back at the car, the snow had added about five centimetres to the roof and road-side. So a very slow start to the return journey was made, but as we came nearer to Oban, the snow eased and the roads became completely clear.
John
Sunday 14 November 2010
Thank You Nevis HWC
I eventually made it to the summit of my last Munro Top in the company of Andrew, Gerry, Alan, and Gavin who kindly took the picture. As you can see conditions were challenging.I would like to say thank you to everyone from the Club who has accompanied me to any of these 227 Tops, many of which are off the normal Munro-baggers routes.
For those who like statistics, I had climbed 97 Tops during my ascent of the Munros in the years up to 2008. To climb the remaining 130 meant 68 days on the hills, walking 1329k in 460 hours. I couldn't even think of calculating what mileage my car has done to get to these hills !
As I've said here before, some of the Tops are a bit boring, but others, particularly in Skye and Torridon give you a real sense of achievement.
I'm grateful to those who have sent good wishes in recent days. In some ways it's sad to get to the end of a journey. Next year I'm hoping to climb "The Furth", the term which the SMC use to describe the 34 mountains over 3000 feet in Ireland, Wales and England. That should be a small enough list for someone of my age to tackle !
I'm looking forward to walking with the Club again next year, and I wish all my fellow members success in their individual challenges.
Thursday 11 November 2010
A Day in Arrochar
I had planned to meet the club last Sunday but had a cold all weekend. yesterday Wednesday I felt better and drove up to the car park at Succoth in Arrochar to walk up Beinn Narnain. Have forgotten how many times I have done this hill, though I do enjoy it as it has a couple of short scrambles on route to the summit.
Arrived at the car park in glorious sunshine and before long the jacket and top layer was off. Took the route straight up from the car park passing the concrete slabs then through the crags. Views from the summit were great as you could see Arran and Ailsa Craig to the south and all the mountain tops to the north with snow on the upper tops. The two photos show Ben Lomond and The Cobbler.
From the summit headed north west down to the bealach and was surprised at the depth of the snow on this slope, then south past The Cobbler, the Narnain Boulders then through the forest on the zig zag path to the car.
Spoke to several people who had taken the day off work to do the hills since the weather was so good.
Tuesday 2 November 2010
Alternative Walk
Ralph was not able to make the club walk on Saturday, 29 Nov., so we decided to do Beinn Sgulaird, one of our local hills, instead. As it happens, the weather on Saturday was pretty terrible, but on Sunday it was good. As Ralph had not done this hill before, we decided to do it by the usual route, from Druimavuic. Starting up the first ridge, we met a guy coming down, who told us he had been up to see the sunrise! Unfortunately, there was a bit of cloud around and it was not as good as he would have liked.
There was still cloud up ahead on the tops, but we were hopeful. On the way up we were lucky enough to see a small flock of fieldfares (identified by Ralph). However, when we arrived at Meall Garbh, we missed the cairn because of the mist. A few minutes later, we were joined by another guy who had missed the small cairn to turn off the track at the start of the walk. He had carried on to the col at the head of Coire Buidhe, and then climbed up to join the path where he met us.
On one of the rockier bits, there was the burping sound of Ptarmigan, and then we saw them. They were nearly in their full winter coats, and were wonderfully camoflaged. The three of us carried on to the summit with the cloud coming and going. When it cleared, there were wonderful views in all directions, with the lochs like mirrors, and the sound of the rutting stags echoing up from the glens below. As usual, Ralph reached the summit before me and was lucky enough to see a Brocken Spectre, but by the time I got there, the mist had cleared. I missed the Brocken Spectre, but got the views.
We met various people who had different ideas to complete their walks, but given the short day, some were a little ambitious.
We returned the same way, with all its ups and downs, (this hill may be only 936 m high, but with the lumps and bumps, the climb is about 1500m) . On the descent, we saw two more ptarmigan that just carried on feeding, although we were only a few metres from them. All in all, this was a very successful walk.
John
There was still cloud up ahead on the tops, but we were hopeful. On the way up we were lucky enough to see a small flock of fieldfares (identified by Ralph). However, when we arrived at Meall Garbh, we missed the cairn because of the mist. A few minutes later, we were joined by another guy who had missed the small cairn to turn off the track at the start of the walk. He had carried on to the col at the head of Coire Buidhe, and then climbed up to join the path where he met us.
On one of the rockier bits, there was the burping sound of Ptarmigan, and then we saw them. They were nearly in their full winter coats, and were wonderfully camoflaged. The three of us carried on to the summit with the cloud coming and going. When it cleared, there were wonderful views in all directions, with the lochs like mirrors, and the sound of the rutting stags echoing up from the glens below. As usual, Ralph reached the summit before me and was lucky enough to see a Brocken Spectre, but by the time I got there, the mist had cleared. I missed the Brocken Spectre, but got the views.
We met various people who had different ideas to complete their walks, but given the short day, some were a little ambitious.
We returned the same way, with all its ups and downs, (this hill may be only 936 m high, but with the lumps and bumps, the climb is about 1500m) . On the descent, we saw two more ptarmigan that just carried on feeding, although we were only a few metres from them. All in all, this was a very successful walk.
John
Monday 1 November 2010
Mullach nan Coirean diversion
The forecast was better for Sunday this weekend, so I headed for Glen Nevis with Fern. At the bottom of the track to Mullach nan Corean were forestry signs asking walkers to follow a diversion. My book says "a footpath winds pleasantly" from the track to the NE ridge by coire riabhach. But the diversion takes the walker up a peaty, boggy, rough forestry path by the Allt Coire a Mhusgain burn instead. This brings you out at the SE corner of the forest and leaves a steep climb up to the ridge to join the path. The diversion, in place until Jan 2011, makes a very difficult start to the walk and may be worth avoiding.
However, I continued on the ridge to the summit, and had a very pleasant walk. I think this hill may often be overlooked for it's close neighbour Stob Ban. But it is a nice hill, and a pleasant ridge walk to the summit. Forecast was for 80% cloud free munros, and I was on the summit in the other 20%. Not to worry, I had left my camera in the car anyway.
Thursday 28 October 2010
The Lancet Edge
In reality some Munro Tops can be disappointing, such as Meall Garbh where we were with the Club as part of the Chno Dearg walk last weekend. Others however are vastly more interesting, so I thought I would post a few pictures of Sgor Iutharn which I climbed the following day. The classic route is up "The Lancet Edge" from the direction of Culra bothy. It's a pretty steep ascent to the summit of this hill (1028m) and at first there are no real difficulties but nearer the summit there's a bit of exposure particularly on the right where the cliffs seem to fall straight down to Loch an Sgoir , and some slabby rocks to clamber over. On Monday there was still a bit of residual snow, so care was required.
The photos show a general view of the hill, the part near the summit, and a view from that point looking back down the Lancet Edge. You can climb this hill from other directions, but I'm sure Andrew G would agree with me that this is the route of choice !
Friday 22 October 2010
For Map Geeks !
On 30th September I found myself walking from Carn Etchachan (a Munro Top of Ben Macdui) to Creagan a Choire Etchachan ( a Top of Derry Cairngorm) and made a conscious effort to visit a little spot which has fascinated me. It's the meeting place of four of the one hundred kilometres squares, so that within a few steps you can stand in grid squares NH, then NJ, NN, and NO. It makes your GPS work overtime ! I suppose the actual grid reference would be NJ000000 ?
Anyway I discovered I was not the only sad person around - someone before me had erected this tiny "cairn" which is just to the left of the little lochan in the other photo.
There you are - I've saved you the bother of going to look for yourself (although Andrew G admitted that he's been there as well ! )
Tuesday 12 October 2010
Not a Cloud....
Well, not in the sky anyway! On Monday I set off with Ben from Glencoe ski centre to climb Meall a Bhuiridhe. The conditions were perfect, not a breath of wind, the sun in the sky, and we were quickly above the morning clouds. We managed the wee bit of scrambling on the ridge over to Creise and returned by our ascent route. What a wonderful day.
Saturday 25 September 2010
The Hills are Alive
From my bedroom window I have just seen three cows on the summit of Tom Meadhoin (621m). Take heart all you lapsed members. If they can do it .........
Tuesday 21 September 2010
Two Days on An Teallach
Ron and Roy will remember the Club weekend three ago at Dundonnell when we climbed An Teallach from the path by the Hotel in foul weather. Last weekend I had another go, and on Saturday I went up the same way on my own and bagged the three outlying Tops of Glas Mheall Mor, Glas Mheall Liath and Sgurr Creag an Eich. True to form it rained most of the day !! Then on the Sunday in a small guided group I did the "proper" traverse from Corrie Hallie over the Forge Ridge. It started fair but conditions deteriorated and the rock proved very slippery in the mist and rain. The first part is fairly straightforward but I found the ascent of all the pinnacles of Corrag Bhuidhe to be quite a challenge . The exposure is extensive, and holds on the pancake shaped rock formations were difficult in the wet. Four of our party managed the route over all the tops, whilst the other two took the bypass path and had a long wait for us. The photos show me sitting on Lord Berkeley's Seat looking like Mr Magoo, and the other is of the preceding party roping up for the ascent of the Corrag Bhuidhe Buttress. Those in the Club who are accomplished scramblers will enjoy this traverse, and I'm sure many have done it before, but I feel it is best saved for one of those clear crisp days with endless sunshine - they do get them occasionally on An Teallach , just not when I'm there ! Anyway, that was another 7 Munro Tops, and I passed the summit trig point on Bidein a' Ghlas Thuill no less than 4 times during the weekend. Does anyone want my surplus ticks ??
Sunday October 10th Stob Coire nan Lochan and Bidean nam Bian
As these hills are in my back yard, no one would be surprised to read that I have done them many times. They make one of the finest hillwalking expeditions in the country. However, the route proposed in the Club programme is normally chosen by boring old baggers whose only aim is to earn ticks for their list.
Far more worthy of a genuine hillwalker’s attention are the approaches starting with an ascent either up the nose of Gearr Aonach (the Zig-zags), or the west face of Aonach Dubh (Dinnertime Buttress). Neither of these features in the Baggers’ Bible.
I intend to do the latter route that day, conditions permitting, having done the former just recently. Discerning members are welcome to join me. All anticipated ticks will be available.
AndrewG
Far more worthy of a genuine hillwalker’s attention are the approaches starting with an ascent either up the nose of Gearr Aonach (the Zig-zags), or the west face of Aonach Dubh (Dinnertime Buttress). Neither of these features in the Baggers’ Bible.
I intend to do the latter route that day, conditions permitting, having done the former just recently. Discerning members are welcome to join me. All anticipated ticks will be available.
AndrewG
Derry Cairngorm
I'm beavering away at the next club programme, due out very soon. It was suggested that we have another day trip to the cairngorms to do Derry Cairngorm so I have pencilled this in for 16th October. Meantime a couple of us have commented that Derry Cairngorm is easier to do from Linn of Dee (a lot less ascent) and also could be shortened by cycling some of the way. So, having recently purchased a second hand mountain bike, I thought this would be an ideal opportunity to try it. Is anyone else interested in doing an overnighter at Braemar to do this hill from a different direction? If we plan it properly we could time the trip to meet the others from Cairngorm at the top...
Saturday 4 September 2010
All over Scotland !
As I can't be at the Club walk and barbecue today I thought I would share my activities this week by way of the blog.
With a good forecast on Tuesday I headed for Braemar and at 7 a.m. the temperature was -1 C. The cycle up to Slugain for an ascent of Ben Avon and it's four tops was very chilly. A puncture 6k up the glen slowed progress but I managed to visit all the Tops, including the furthest away, East Meur Gorm Craig, which is nearer Cock Bridge than anywhere else ! Did you know that whilst Ben Avon has only one Munro, there are in fact no less than 6 Declassified Munros also ! After a tiring 43k, I was back home by 7 p.m.and a day off to follow !
Thursday saw me in Glen Affric for the marvellous ridge walk in perfect conditions from Tom a' Choinich to Mam Sodhail, and then a descent over Sgurr na Lapaich, last visited by me with Chairman Andrew on 28th March in a blizzard. So different now.
The route described gives 3 Munros and 7 Tops, of which 6 were new to me, and of course the visibility was incredible. The photo above is of Beinn Fhionnlaidh and Coire Lochan, the water looking so blue. Note the distant hills. The total walk was 26k.
I stayed over and on Friday headed for Inchnadamph to climb Ben More Assynt and Conival. On this occasion I headed for the col between Breabag Tarsuinn and Conival and an ascent of Ben More Assynt's South Top from Dubh-Loch Mor. The heat and rough terrain meant four hours to attain the South Top. The ridge connecting the top to the main summit is quoted as being quite exposed but I didn't find any difficulties. By the time I got to the two Munros it was very busy, and I was glad to get back to the car to cool off. Total walk 21.5k. Home to Crieff in just under 4 hours.
I hope to catch up with you all soon, but probably the Arran weekend will be my next outing. Meantime have fun and I look forward to hearing about exploits on Club walks.
Friday 3 September 2010
2 Days in Lochaber
On Monday the 30th August I left Glasgow very early in the morning and arrived at the Glenfinnan visitor centre car park at 9am. Had a ten minute nap then set off up the west side of the river on the tarmac road to the Corryhully bothy. About 2km past the bothy I picked up the stalkers path to take me to the south ridge of Sgurr nan Coireachan. From here it was a steep climb to the 852 mark then down and up to the summit. Great views as the weather was excellent. Had a good rest then set off along the ridge to Sgurr Thuilm with its many steep downs and ups. Reached the summit had food and drink, good rest then down back to the car. I drove to Invergarry and stayed at a B&B.
On day 2 I set off to the north side of Loch Quoich to walk up Gleouraich and Spidean Mialach. Similar walk as in day 1 though thankfully not just as steep. Picked up the stalkers path which took me to the 850m point then level path before steep climb to summit. Great views and could see The Saddle and Sgurr na Sgine that I did with the club two weeks ago. Set off along the ridge to Spidean Mialach, then the decent back to the car.
It was a great two days with excellent weather and only met another three walkers over the two days, apart from the game keeper at Glenfinnan who asked where I was going to walk that day. After I told him, he said that was ok and have a good day.
Friday 20 August 2010
Unfinished Business .......
Just back from 7 consecutive mountain days (of which the most enjoyable was the Club day on The Saddle) but I thought some might like to know how I fared elsewhere.
An earlier informal outing to Mullach Coire Mhic Fhearchair (Fisherfield) was planned with Cris but didn't happen, so last week I climbed that one from the A832 via Loch a' Bhraoin. It's a long day and the 28.5k took just over 9 hours. About 45 minutes was spent to and from the wee exposed top of Sgurr Dubh, so if that was omitted and a cycle was used on the long loch approach it should be possible for Cris to add on a couple of other Fisherfield Munros.
John B may also be interested to know that I made it to A' Chralaig's remotish top of A' Chioch which proved impossible on the Club outing on 1st May when snow and zero visibility intervened !
I also blogged about a windy outing to Torridon in July, and on Saturday enjoyed a perfectly calm day to bag my remaining 2 Tops on Beinn Eighe - what a spectacular mountain !
Finally , Les might like to know that I was back in Skye this week and he isn't the only one to suffer poor weather there. Yesterday, Thursday, all forecasts indicated that sunlight would be the sole hazard but up on the Cuillin Ridge it was dreadful, heavy rain, winds of 25mph+, and cold enough for gloves. Managed my 4 remaining Tops there, but I have never seen rock so greasy and frankly I was glad when the time came to escape down the Great Stone Chute !
An earlier informal outing to Mullach Coire Mhic Fhearchair (Fisherfield) was planned with Cris but didn't happen, so last week I climbed that one from the A832 via Loch a' Bhraoin. It's a long day and the 28.5k took just over 9 hours. About 45 minutes was spent to and from the wee exposed top of Sgurr Dubh, so if that was omitted and a cycle was used on the long loch approach it should be possible for Cris to add on a couple of other Fisherfield Munros.
John B may also be interested to know that I made it to A' Chralaig's remotish top of A' Chioch which proved impossible on the Club outing on 1st May when snow and zero visibility intervened !
I also blogged about a windy outing to Torridon in July, and on Saturday enjoyed a perfectly calm day to bag my remaining 2 Tops on Beinn Eighe - what a spectacular mountain !
Finally , Les might like to know that I was back in Skye this week and he isn't the only one to suffer poor weather there. Yesterday, Thursday, all forecasts indicated that sunlight would be the sole hazard but up on the Cuillin Ridge it was dreadful, heavy rain, winds of 25mph+, and cold enough for gloves. Managed my 4 remaining Tops there, but I have never seen rock so greasy and frankly I was glad when the time came to escape down the Great Stone Chute !
Toughprint
As many of you know, I like to take an A4 map onto the hill in a pocket (as well as my OS map in my bag). I have tried all sorts of poly pockets etc, and laterly was laminating a double sided page that Wesley likes to affectionately call a "sarah sheet". The problem with laminating is that when it is folded to put in a pocket it starts to de-laminate and water gets in the creases.
So I purchased a pack of Toughprint through Amazon. According to the blurb it is 100% waterproof, tough, durable and photo quality. 25 sheets for £13.99 so not cheap at 56p each. However I do file these maps for reuse. I am pleasantly surprised with it. It seems to be waterproof (coped with the showers we had on Lochnagar) and stands up to a fair bit of buffeting in the wind. Please ask to see it next time we're on a walk and you can judge for yourself.
So I purchased a pack of Toughprint through Amazon. According to the blurb it is 100% waterproof, tough, durable and photo quality. 25 sheets for £13.99 so not cheap at 56p each. However I do file these maps for reuse. I am pleasantly surprised with it. It seems to be waterproof (coped with the showers we had on Lochnagar) and stands up to a fair bit of buffeting in the wind. Please ask to see it next time we're on a walk and you can judge for yourself.
Tuesday 17 August 2010
Weekly Reports versus Blog versus Diary
Firstly, I take issue with Ron’s comment that “…the Reports of Recent Walks web-page is nothing more that a crude blog….”. I know he is referring to the technology involved. I am referring to the content. Contributors to the Weekly Reports have hitherto taken great care with their copy to ensure that it is readable, factual and informative, mindful that it constitutes the “shop window” of our Club. If this were not so, I know that the editor would, and has on occasion quite rightly edited the piece to make it presentable. The Weekly report is rather more refined than the Blog and I think we should keep it, and keep it so.
In contrast, a blog is full of personal opinions as well as facts, often written hurriedly and without the care and attention one would give a more important piece of writing. All bloggers know and accept this and it in no way detracts from the value of the Blog and the important role it plays. However, neither Club members nor members of the public will plough through all this stuff to find out what we did last week, or obtain a clear picture of what our Club does and stands for.
Let us use up to date technology to publish the weekly reports, but keep it under the control of an editor. If this task is too onerous for one person, we should appoint a small number of additional members to assist.
The Diary of course predates the Website by many years. Yes, it is a tradition. It is also a record of what the Club actually does, as opposed to what we intend to do (the programme). It is read every week, and information extracted by the Club archivist (task currently being performed by Gerry). The information assists those producing the programme, the weekly reports, the annual report, supports grant applications, and so on. Other media can present this information but there is no more immediate and accurate means of gathering it than the members who participated writing it down immediately after the walk.
I can understand that sometimes members may be too tired or too embarrassed to write something meaningful, poetical, philosophical, original, funny, scathing, intelligent, outrageous, or useful. Please don’t bother. Just ensure that you or someone in your party writes down the day and date, which hills you did, which routes you took, and whom you walked with. That will do thank you. If you didn’t do the walk on the programme, a reason why would be helpful. Or if it was just due to weather or conditions on the Hill, a description of these would be useful.
AndrewG
In contrast, a blog is full of personal opinions as well as facts, often written hurriedly and without the care and attention one would give a more important piece of writing. All bloggers know and accept this and it in no way detracts from the value of the Blog and the important role it plays. However, neither Club members nor members of the public will plough through all this stuff to find out what we did last week, or obtain a clear picture of what our Club does and stands for.
Let us use up to date technology to publish the weekly reports, but keep it under the control of an editor. If this task is too onerous for one person, we should appoint a small number of additional members to assist.
The Diary of course predates the Website by many years. Yes, it is a tradition. It is also a record of what the Club actually does, as opposed to what we intend to do (the programme). It is read every week, and information extracted by the Club archivist (task currently being performed by Gerry). The information assists those producing the programme, the weekly reports, the annual report, supports grant applications, and so on. Other media can present this information but there is no more immediate and accurate means of gathering it than the members who participated writing it down immediately after the walk.
I can understand that sometimes members may be too tired or too embarrassed to write something meaningful, poetical, philosophical, original, funny, scathing, intelligent, outrageous, or useful. Please don’t bother. Just ensure that you or someone in your party writes down the day and date, which hills you did, which routes you took, and whom you walked with. That will do thank you. If you didn’t do the walk on the programme, a reason why would be helpful. Or if it was just due to weather or conditions on the Hill, a description of these would be useful.
AndrewG
Monday 16 August 2010
Two days in Glen Shiel
On Saturday I arrived at my start point in GlenShiel too do the three Munros on the west side of the south ridge. There was no sun as promised by the weather men, only low lying mist. However I set off across some wet ground south then west for a short distance before heading south west to the summit of Sgurr Coire na Feinne before heading to my first Munro of the day Sgurr an Doir Leathain.
On reaching the summit the mist had lifted though views were still restricted. Had lunch then set off for Sgurr an Lochain and by now the sun was fully out and had excellent views in all directions.
Set off for Sgurr Beag though traversed round the south of the peak and headed for my final Munro of the day to Creag nan Damh. On approaching the cairn there was a large bird sitting on top of the cairn though could not tell what it was. After a good break and lots of photos I set off south east down a steep slope then South to the A87 where I had to walk back to my car which was about 7km east to my start point.
Since I was joining the club next day I decided to test my new tent at the Sheil Bridge campsite and also get eaten by the midges. The guy and his wife in the tent next door kindly help me to erect mine which took us 10 minutes, or should I say them. If it had been me, I would still be trying to piece it together though now I am all set to do some wilderness walking to bag a few Munros!!!
I met Norman in the Kintail Lodge for a night cap and discussed our days on the hills.
I will leave the Sunday report to a club member though I did The Saddle via the Forcan Ridge and Sgurr na Signe. A great two days with wonderfull weather and five munros.
On reaching the summit the mist had lifted though views were still restricted. Had lunch then set off for Sgurr an Lochain and by now the sun was fully out and had excellent views in all directions.
Set off for Sgurr Beag though traversed round the south of the peak and headed for my final Munro of the day to Creag nan Damh. On approaching the cairn there was a large bird sitting on top of the cairn though could not tell what it was. After a good break and lots of photos I set off south east down a steep slope then South to the A87 where I had to walk back to my car which was about 7km east to my start point.
Since I was joining the club next day I decided to test my new tent at the Sheil Bridge campsite and also get eaten by the midges. The guy and his wife in the tent next door kindly help me to erect mine which took us 10 minutes, or should I say them. If it had been me, I would still be trying to piece it together though now I am all set to do some wilderness walking to bag a few Munros!!!
I met Norman in the Kintail Lodge for a night cap and discussed our days on the hills.
I will leave the Sunday report to a club member though I did The Saddle via the Forcan Ridge and Sgurr na Signe. A great two days with wonderfull weather and five munros.
Tuesday 10 August 2010
Problems making a comment?
If like me you have been struggling to comment on a controversial post - good on John Burton putting the cat amongst the pigeons - it could be that you are using firefox. After much tearing of hair and scouring the internet for advice my feelings of inadequacy were finally put to bed by another blogger elsewhere. If using firefox you need to have third party cookies enabled. You don't in other browsers so I simply logged on using chrome. Not sure if you can use safari though.
Hope this opens the floodgates to comments.
Sunday 8 August 2010
Reports of Recent Walks
Further to John and Norman's blogs re the diary and the newsletter, I think I better come clean and confess that I would like to use the blog software for the weekly reports which are presently on the club web-site.
Obviously, the "Reports of Recent Walks" web-page is nothing more that a crude blog. This was fine when I started it but things have moved on, blogging technology is available today, all over the web and we ought to make use of it. The advantage would be that any member could contribute reports and publish them themselves. At present, people write trip reports in an email. I then cut and paste these into a copy of the web-page on my PC along with some HTML (HTML is the instructions to your browser on how to format the page), add the photos, tweak the HTML a bit to tidy up any oddities and load everything to the web-server. Really, this is all looking a bit "third world" by today's standards !!
We could either include reports of these walks in the existing club blog or have a separate blog dedicated to Programme Walks. I personally think that one blog is enough for a small club like ours.
But this is enough from me. What do others think ?
Obviously, the "Reports of Recent Walks" web-page is nothing more that a crude blog. This was fine when I started it but things have moved on, blogging technology is available today, all over the web and we ought to make use of it. The advantage would be that any member could contribute reports and publish them themselves. At present, people write trip reports in an email. I then cut and paste these into a copy of the web-page on my PC along with some HTML (HTML is the instructions to your browser on how to format the page), add the photos, tweak the HTML a bit to tidy up any oddities and load everything to the web-server. Really, this is all looking a bit "third world" by today's standards !!
We could either include reports of these walks in the existing club blog or have a separate blog dedicated to Programme Walks. I personally think that one blog is enough for a small club like ours.
But this is enough from me. What do others think ?
The Diary
The diary--do we really need it? There, I've just picked up a fairly large stone and thrown it into the Nevis Hillwalkers pool. I hope that the ripples that are caused will produce some eddies in all sorts of directions. I do realise that the diary has been a feature at the end of our walks for a long time, but wonder who, if anyone, reads it? And also, what purpose it serves? Someone out there, I'm sure, will tell me. But with our very good website with entries on each walk, and even photos, and now this blog (thankyou, Ron), are we not becoming a little overburdened with walk detail?
At the end of our walks, it is customery to meet up at a local hostelry or cafe to talk about that day's walk and others, and generally socialise. The diary, at the moment, is part of that, but I feel that it has become something of a chore, actually reducing the craic.
That's enough of my feelings on the subject. Now it's your turn! And by "you", I mean all members. Let's have lots of comments, please!
At the end of our walks, it is customery to meet up at a local hostelry or cafe to talk about that day's walk and others, and generally socialise. The diary, at the moment, is part of that, but I feel that it has become something of a chore, actually reducing the craic.
That's enough of my feelings on the subject. Now it's your turn! And by "you", I mean all members. Let's have lots of comments, please!
Thursday 5 August 2010
A Short Day Out
Hi everyone.
This is my first attempt at writing a mesage on the blog so
lets hope it works! I was out today for the first time in quite a while so I didn't fancy a big day out. I wanted a short day to give me a short strenous walk to get back into the swing of things. Andrew and I met in the Glencoe car park and walked up to the mast " the hard way" of course because we couldn't have too easy a start back. We were out for about 3 hours but it was enough to stretch the calves and get a bit of fresh air. The views were much better than expected and we only had one heavy shower so that was a real bonus. It was great to get out and I am looking forward to getting back to walking with the club so if there is anyone else out there who wants to be led gently back into the habit of walking give me a shout and I will keep you company.
It's not all about getting to the top as quickly as possible. It's about enjoying the walk, the company and hopefully the views.
Jean
This is my first attempt at writing a mesage on the blog so
lets hope it works! I was out today for the first time in quite a while so I didn't fancy a big day out. I wanted a short day to give me a short strenous walk to get back into the swing of things. Andrew and I met in the Glencoe car park and walked up to the mast " the hard way" of course because we couldn't have too easy a start back. We were out for about 3 hours but it was enough to stretch the calves and get a bit of fresh air. The views were much better than expected and we only had one heavy shower so that was a real bonus. It was great to get out and I am looking forward to getting back to walking with the club so if there is anyone else out there who wants to be led gently back into the habit of walking give me a shout and I will keep you company.
It's not all about getting to the top as quickly as possible. It's about enjoying the walk, the company and hopefully the views.
Jean
Tuesday 3 August 2010
Beinn Dearg near Blair Atholl
Hi Folks
On Sunday I drove up to Blair Atholl to climb Beinn Dearg. It is a remote Munro so I took my bike and cycled along the track which felt like a steady ascent all the way to the bothy.The good point was that it would be downhill back to the car and so it proved. On reaching the bothy it reminded me of the club trip to Knoydart last May in that 'beautiful' Druim Bothy that we stayed in for three nights.
Further along the track you come to the path which starts the uphill walk proper, heading mainly north to the summit. The weather was ok with light mist on the summit and just a couple of light showers which only lasted about 10 minutes.
On the cycle out I met up with the young couple that I spoke to at the bothy where they had stayed the night after walking in on Saturday, not realising how far a walk it was. I felt sorry for them as they had back packs and the young lad also had two polly bags to carry with several more miles to go. A good day and another one bites the dust.
Hope to join the club walk for the Saddle and plan staying a couple of nights to do another day in that area.
Les
On Sunday I drove up to Blair Atholl to climb Beinn Dearg. It is a remote Munro so I took my bike and cycled along the track which felt like a steady ascent all the way to the bothy.The good point was that it would be downhill back to the car and so it proved. On reaching the bothy it reminded me of the club trip to Knoydart last May in that 'beautiful' Druim Bothy that we stayed in for three nights.
Further along the track you come to the path which starts the uphill walk proper, heading mainly north to the summit. The weather was ok with light mist on the summit and just a couple of light showers which only lasted about 10 minutes.
On the cycle out I met up with the young couple that I spoke to at the bothy where they had stayed the night after walking in on Saturday, not realising how far a walk it was. I felt sorry for them as they had back packs and the young lad also had two polly bags to carry with several more miles to go. A good day and another one bites the dust.
Hope to join the club walk for the Saddle and plan staying a couple of nights to do another day in that area.
Les
Tuesday 27 July 2010
A day in the life of Wesley
Hello allOn Sunday I met Sarah at the top car park at the Cairngoirm Ski Resort to walk to Ben MacDui and Cairngorm. Sarah was already in Aviemore for the weekend and I decided to join her. I was tired and not in the humour to deal with the wet west!! That's for another day. Guaranteed.
The day was good but the weather was mixed. It was cold for the time of year. Not surprising I suppose when you are at 4000 feet above sea level, anything can happen. That dog is mine. Her name is Suzie and she is on her 5th Munro, and here is another one of Sarah with Fern, on the summit of
Cairngorm, where we had a shower of hail greet us. Nice.
Cairngorm, where we had a shower of hail greet us. Nice.
Thursday 22 July 2010
Glen Affric
Just a brief report on the informal outing to Glen Affric attended by 7 members who all stayed for one night or two at the Youth Hostel at Alltbeithe, having either cycled in from the East end of Loch Affric, or walked in from the same place, or from Glen Shiel.
The weather was quite kind for the hill walk on Tuesday and hills climbed included An Socach, Sgurr nan Ceathreamhnan, Mullach na Dheiragain, and the seven Munro Tops in the area.
Unfortunately Wednesday was a bit wet ( that's a bit of an understatement) and I'm sure most got a trifle damp on the way back out to civilisation ! I bagged a couple of Tops on Mam Sodhail and was almost at Affric Lodge on the way back when I was confronted by a horrendously swollen burn which threatened to force me to walk back all the way round Loch Affric, but somehow I found a way across although it was a bit hazardous !
Note for Mike : This outing was arranged to ensure it didn't clash with any of the Club's formal walks, although I note the attendance here exceeded some of the recent walks on the programme.
Lurg Mhor etc.
A few photos to complement Ron's excellent report on the recent expedition by a few of the Club's members to Lurg Mhor , Bidein
a' Choire Sheasgaich, and in my case the Munro Top of Meall Mor.
a' Choire Sheasgaich, and in my case the Munro Top of Meall Mor.Perhaps we could have chosen a drier day !
Midges Update
Harking back to Ron's post on 18 June 2010, I have some good news!
Some of you may already have come across the new midge repellent, called Smidge. I have bought some and find it to be excellent. It has hardly any smell, is non-greasy and seems to be highly effective. It comes in a spray can and costs £6.99. Not so much a spray, more a white lotion which you spray into your hand and rub on.
Visit www.midgeforecast.co.uk for a list of stockists. Their own supply had run out until 23 July last time I checked, but it is cheaper to buy it offline anyway.
Some of you may already have come across the new midge repellent, called Smidge. I have bought some and find it to be excellent. It has hardly any smell, is non-greasy and seems to be highly effective. It comes in a spray can and costs £6.99. Not so much a spray, more a white lotion which you spray into your hand and rub on.
Visit www.midgeforecast.co.uk for a list of stockists. Their own supply had run out until 23 July last time I checked, but it is cheaper to buy it offline anyway.
Tuesday 20 July 2010
Correction to "A Wilderness Walk on the Isle of Mull"
Those who have read this in the newsletter may have noticed that at para. 13, where we approached the col, it went from "we" to "I". That was because Dougie had opted to forego the pleasure of climbing A'Chioch and Ben More (he never really was a hill-walker). Instead, he suggested that I go on alone and he would take both packs down into Glen Clachaig and pitch camp. This meant that I could climb the hills with only map, compass and water.
PS to Sgor an Lochan Uaine and Cairn Toul
A plus for this walk was the wildlife that I saw--a flock (?) (help, Wesley!) of ptarmigan, two dotterill (thanks, Ron, for helping me identify them), and one reindeer (but it definitely did not feel like christmas!).
Sunday 18 July 2010
Lurg Mhor and Bidein a'Choire Sheasgaich
Seen from the south, at least, Lurg Mhor does not look like a particularly exciting hill - grassy slopes with some crags near the summit. Its fame comes from its inclusion (with Seana Braigh and A'Mhaighdean) in the list of the "most remote" Munros. Because of that it is regarded with some awe and apprehension by many hillwalkers. The usual route starts from Craig and proceeds by the Pollan Buidhe, then over the Bealach Bhearnais, Beinn Tarsuinn, Bidein a'Choire Sheasgaich to finally reach Lurg Mhor! For all but superhumans, a night out somewhere (in a tent or a bothy) is the only option. We, therefore, took notice when we heard of an alternative route from Attadale on Loch Carron. This is a little shorter and, significantly, was rumoured to be cycle-able.
Accordingly, Cris, Norman, Ron and Roy gathered at Attadale on a dreich and miserable Saturday morning. The forecast was for the weather to clear up in the afternoon. However, the first thing which met us when we got there, was a large sign, saying the Loch Carron Highland Games, scheduled for that day, had been canceled. Hmm - not encouraging.
Anyway, we set off on our bicycles, along a good tarmac road. For those who don't know it, Attadale is a very attractive little glen with forestry, holiday cottages and, of course, the Gardens. All very nicely done. Of course, that did not last. The tarmac ended with the holiday cottages and the track became rougher and much, much steeper. The climb up to the bealach has some fearsome hairpins which give an idea of what the Bealach na Ba, in Applecross, must have been like before the road engineers got their hands on it. The other side is quite different - a long and relatively gentle run down through a deserted landscape. Finally, two white buildings appear - Bendronaig Lodge. One building is locked and is kept for the Estate but the other is a very well-equipped bothy - it even has a flush toilet (though you have to fill the cistern from the nearby burn with a bucket !)
We abandoned the bicycles a few hundred metres further on at a dodgy river bridge, then walked on to Loch Calavie. From there, it was just (!) a slog up the grassy slopes to the bealach between the two munros and a left and right. For information, the area around the bealach is very confusing in mist - lots of bumps and dips etc so you have to pay attention to your compass.
The summit of Lurg Mhor is a wide plateau with a large cairn at the far end. Bidein a'Choire Sheasgaich's summit is much more spectacular being gained by a narrow rocky ridge with big drops on both sides. Don't know about the views - completely clagged in when we were there.
Then it was back to the bothy and the long cycle ride back to Attadale with a terrifying descent down the hairpins. The forecast improvement in the weather finally happened and I had a fantastic sunset in front of me for the drive back to Fort William.
If anyone else is interested, it took me just under 2 hours to drive from FW to Attadale. The cycle/walk took us around 10 hours including 2 x 1/2 hour stops in the bothy. We probably lost another hour or so due to burns which were uncrossable raging torrents and dodgy navigation on the way up. So it is still a very long day but no more. Clearly, it is possible to cycle as far as Bendronaig Lodge though you have to get off and push for a fair bit of the way. The surface is pretty rough in places (in fact, most places) - a bike with suspension would definitely be preferable.
Accordingly, Cris, Norman, Ron and Roy gathered at Attadale on a dreich and miserable Saturday morning. The forecast was for the weather to clear up in the afternoon. However, the first thing which met us when we got there, was a large sign, saying the Loch Carron Highland Games, scheduled for that day, had been canceled. Hmm - not encouraging.
Anyway, we set off on our bicycles, along a good tarmac road. For those who don't know it, Attadale is a very attractive little glen with forestry, holiday cottages and, of course, the Gardens. All very nicely done. Of course, that did not last. The tarmac ended with the holiday cottages and the track became rougher and much, much steeper. The climb up to the bealach has some fearsome hairpins which give an idea of what the Bealach na Ba, in Applecross, must have been like before the road engineers got their hands on it. The other side is quite different - a long and relatively gentle run down through a deserted landscape. Finally, two white buildings appear - Bendronaig Lodge. One building is locked and is kept for the Estate but the other is a very well-equipped bothy - it even has a flush toilet (though you have to fill the cistern from the nearby burn with a bucket !)
We abandoned the bicycles a few hundred metres further on at a dodgy river bridge, then walked on to Loch Calavie. From there, it was just (!) a slog up the grassy slopes to the bealach between the two munros and a left and right. For information, the area around the bealach is very confusing in mist - lots of bumps and dips etc so you have to pay attention to your compass.
The summit of Lurg Mhor is a wide plateau with a large cairn at the far end. Bidein a'Choire Sheasgaich's summit is much more spectacular being gained by a narrow rocky ridge with big drops on both sides. Don't know about the views - completely clagged in when we were there.
Then it was back to the bothy and the long cycle ride back to Attadale with a terrifying descent down the hairpins. The forecast improvement in the weather finally happened and I had a fantastic sunset in front of me for the drive back to Fort William.
If anyone else is interested, it took me just under 2 hours to drive from FW to Attadale. The cycle/walk took us around 10 hours including 2 x 1/2 hour stops in the bothy. We probably lost another hour or so due to burns which were uncrossable raging torrents and dodgy navigation on the way up. So it is still a very long day but no more. Clearly, it is possible to cycle as far as Bendronaig Lodge though you have to get off and push for a fair bit of the way. The surface is pretty rough in places (in fact, most places) - a bike with suspension would definitely be preferable.
Tired now
We are sixty kilometres into the course really shattered. Apparently this is the checkpoint where most people retire. I am certainly considering it at the moment.
Sent from my HTC Touch Diamond
Resting blistered feet
Well I finally bowed as my feet were unable to take anymore. My colleagues are still walking but not sure for how much longer. Dawn is here on another fine, clear day, that may give them a much needed boost.
Sent from my HTC Touch Diamond
Saturday 17 July 2010
Checkpoint 2
20 km. We are ahead of schedule so a good point to refuel and look after our feet.
Sent from my HTC Touch Diamond
Friday 16 July 2010
Sgor an Lochain Uaine and Cairn Toul
There were two things that affected this walk--the weather which can make a walk wonderful and magical with awe-inspiring views, breezes to keep you cool and the midges at bay, but this was not one of those; and time. When I left Oban, I thought that the road at Barcaldine, north of Oban, was to be closed for road-works at 10pm, but on crossing Connel Bridge, an electronic sign informed me that it was to close at 9pm. One hour less to do a long and high walk. My brain tried to calculate distances and times, but I was already on my way, so I just had to go for it.
Left the car at Achlean in Glen Feshie at about 9.40am, with the weather not too bad--dry, but with low cloud and a fairly strong wind. The walk was uneventful until the crossing of the Allt Sgairnich, where I met another walker. He had camped the previous night, was heading for Monadh Mor, and was planning to camp again that night. I commented that the cloud had risen in front of me as I climbed on to the plateau, and hoped it would continue.
We separated and I passed Loch nan Cnapan with no view of the hills I was aiming for. The cloud did not continue to rise, but in fact came lower, and with it the rain and wind.
I set my compass and headed for the foot of the first hill. The going was hard, with boggy patches, and where there wern't boggy patches, it was bouldery, (and all the time, wondering if I had enough time to complete the walk). Ascending Sgor an Lochan Uaine, the boulders became bigger and more often, the rain and wind wetter and stronger. GPS came into its own, and I made it to the summit cairn. There was a slight lull in the wind, and I was able to take a look over the edge of the cliffs to try and see the lochan. Cloud and more cloud. So, another bearing and down to the col before climbing Cairn Toul. More and bigger boulders, stronger wind and rain. ( and still checking the time--not enough to stop for a break). The shelter cairn at the summit came just in time, and I had to take a short break for a drink, but no food.
Compass and map again, then out into the weather. More boulders (downhill and harder), gale-force winds and rain, and 10 metres of visibility. I was walking into the wind now, heading west. Boulders, boulders, boulders, wind, wind, wind. This was not fun. Still heading west, the cloud cleared for a moment and I could see a spectacular glen to my left that I had not seen before. Where was that? Am I on the correct bearing? Out with the map-it must be Glen Geusachan (?) The doubt lingered, but I had to carry on.
Eventually, the boulders ran out, but the wind and rain did not. Again, a break in the cloud, and I could see steep cliffs in front of me--Glen Einich? (how's the time going?) Still not able to stop for a break. Then Loch nan Cnapan, and confidence returned. Crossed the burn (no problem, even with all the rain), and on to the track. Then something rather strange. I was out of the wind for the first time in a while, and my brain became disoriented, like being drunk but without the pleasure. It did not last long, as I was straight back into the wind again.
The just ahead of me, two walkers appeared out of the mist, going the same way (two more idiots out in this weather!). But I did not have the energy to catch them up, and they turned off towards Carn Ban Mor. The wind was still battering me, the rain was off and on and the cloud was still down, but I was nearing home! The wind did not stop until I entered the forest, and was I relieved.
Back at the car, I decided that I had better head for home immediately, so put the sandwiches on the passenger seat to eat on the way.
At Duror, there was a sign "Road ahead closed", but it was too early! I carried on, but again at Appin, another sign "Road ahead closed"!
I reached Barcaldine at 8.35pm, and the road was open! Yippee!!
In retrospect, it was not too bad a walk--objective achieved (two Munros climbed), navigation worked out successfully and I completed a long, hard walk in a reasonable time--but I hope that I never have to do it again!
Left the car at Achlean in Glen Feshie at about 9.40am, with the weather not too bad--dry, but with low cloud and a fairly strong wind. The walk was uneventful until the crossing of the Allt Sgairnich, where I met another walker. He had camped the previous night, was heading for Monadh Mor, and was planning to camp again that night. I commented that the cloud had risen in front of me as I climbed on to the plateau, and hoped it would continue.
We separated and I passed Loch nan Cnapan with no view of the hills I was aiming for. The cloud did not continue to rise, but in fact came lower, and with it the rain and wind.
I set my compass and headed for the foot of the first hill. The going was hard, with boggy patches, and where there wern't boggy patches, it was bouldery, (and all the time, wondering if I had enough time to complete the walk). Ascending Sgor an Lochan Uaine, the boulders became bigger and more often, the rain and wind wetter and stronger. GPS came into its own, and I made it to the summit cairn. There was a slight lull in the wind, and I was able to take a look over the edge of the cliffs to try and see the lochan. Cloud and more cloud. So, another bearing and down to the col before climbing Cairn Toul. More and bigger boulders, stronger wind and rain. ( and still checking the time--not enough to stop for a break). The shelter cairn at the summit came just in time, and I had to take a short break for a drink, but no food.
Compass and map again, then out into the weather. More boulders (downhill and harder), gale-force winds and rain, and 10 metres of visibility. I was walking into the wind now, heading west. Boulders, boulders, boulders, wind, wind, wind. This was not fun. Still heading west, the cloud cleared for a moment and I could see a spectacular glen to my left that I had not seen before. Where was that? Am I on the correct bearing? Out with the map-it must be Glen Geusachan (?) The doubt lingered, but I had to carry on.
Eventually, the boulders ran out, but the wind and rain did not. Again, a break in the cloud, and I could see steep cliffs in front of me--Glen Einich? (how's the time going?) Still not able to stop for a break. Then Loch nan Cnapan, and confidence returned. Crossed the burn (no problem, even with all the rain), and on to the track. Then something rather strange. I was out of the wind for the first time in a while, and my brain became disoriented, like being drunk but without the pleasure. It did not last long, as I was straight back into the wind again.
The just ahead of me, two walkers appeared out of the mist, going the same way (two more idiots out in this weather!). But I did not have the energy to catch them up, and they turned off towards Carn Ban Mor. The wind was still battering me, the rain was off and on and the cloud was still down, but I was nearing home! The wind did not stop until I entered the forest, and was I relieved.
Back at the car, I decided that I had better head for home immediately, so put the sandwiches on the passenger seat to eat on the way.
At Duror, there was a sign "Road ahead closed", but it was too early! I carried on, but again at Appin, another sign "Road ahead closed"!
I reached Barcaldine at 8.35pm, and the road was open! Yippee!!
In retrospect, it was not too bad a walk--objective achieved (two Munros climbed), navigation worked out successfully and I completed a long, hard walk in a reasonable time--but I hope that I never have to do it again!
Swapping Highland hills for gentler southern ones
I have swapped the wet, dreich weather of the Highlands for what I had hoped would be sunnier, warmer South Coast hills this weekend. ALthough having travelled all this way the weather forecast looks fairly uncertain.
Along with three friends we are preparing to take part in the Trailwalker 2010 challenge organised by Oxfam and the Gurkhas. This big event takes place every year and attract hundreds of teams. We will be walking 100km across the South Downs from near Petersfield to Brighton in under thirty hours. It's really like coming home as this is where I first learnt to love the outdoors, exploring the South Downs as a boy.
We set off at 7am tomorrow morning, walking all through the night, aiming to stoll across the finishing line at Brighton Racecourse by Sunday lunchtime. We are backed by two supprot crews who wiill be meeting us at checkpoints along route. I hope that my time spent with the club and on my own in the mountains around Lochaber will prove useful.
I am going to try some mobile blogging over the weekend so that you can see our progress along the route accompanied by a few photographs.
Along with three friends we are preparing to take part in the Trailwalker 2010 challenge organised by Oxfam and the Gurkhas. This big event takes place every year and attract hundreds of teams. We will be walking 100km across the South Downs from near Petersfield to Brighton in under thirty hours. It's really like coming home as this is where I first learnt to love the outdoors, exploring the South Downs as a boy.
We set off at 7am tomorrow morning, walking all through the night, aiming to stoll across the finishing line at Brighton Racecourse by Sunday lunchtime. We are backed by two supprot crews who wiill be meeting us at checkpoints along route. I hope that my time spent with the club and on my own in the mountains around Lochaber will prove useful.
I am going to try some mobile blogging over the weekend so that you can see our progress along the route accompanied by a few photographs.
Wednesday 14 July 2010
Failure on the In Pin
Three weeks ago, five of us went to Skye for two days with the intention of climbing the In Pin on the first day.Two weeks previous we went to the Glasgow Climbing Centre to practise under instruction how to climb and abseil. At the end of the course we abseiled twice 70feet down the outside of the building and this gave me confidence for the trip to Skye.
On the big day we set off with our guide in good weather conditions with a forecast of sun and a light shower in the afternoon though as we were to discover later, in Skye they do not do light showers, only continous downpours.
By the time we were halve way up Sgurr Dearg the white puffy clouds were turning to grey misty clouds and getting thicker as we gained height. When we reached the summit of Sgurr Dearg it was thick cloud, then we droped down then back up to a ridge with the In Pin in front of us covered in thick cloud. We had lunch while waiting our turn to go down to the beginning of the Pin and when time came for us to get strated the cloud was even thicker and the wind had got up. The decision was made to go ahead though by the time the ropes were set up it had started to rain. I was second to go and by now the wind and rain was heavy, though I set off and to my surprise I did the first pitch to the halve way point, very steadily and only pausing at one rock slab where I could not see foot holds very clearly at first. After doing the first pitch, the real problem arose. The person at the top could not get the rope down due to the severe wind as it kept blowing over to my right. After what seemed like ages the decision was made to abandon the climb and then panic set in when I was told I would have to go back down the way I came up.
I focused myself then went back down and was pleased with how I had coped and will try to get up to Skye next month while my confidence is high.
Wednesday was a total washout as we gave up just over halve way up Sgurr nan Gillean because of the wind and rain. The lady that owned the B&B that we were staying at told us that they had not had rain for 6-8 weeks. Just our luck.
Les
On the big day we set off with our guide in good weather conditions with a forecast of sun and a light shower in the afternoon though as we were to discover later, in Skye they do not do light showers, only continous downpours.
By the time we were halve way up Sgurr Dearg the white puffy clouds were turning to grey misty clouds and getting thicker as we gained height. When we reached the summit of Sgurr Dearg it was thick cloud, then we droped down then back up to a ridge with the In Pin in front of us covered in thick cloud. We had lunch while waiting our turn to go down to the beginning of the Pin and when time came for us to get strated the cloud was even thicker and the wind had got up. The decision was made to go ahead though by the time the ropes were set up it had started to rain. I was second to go and by now the wind and rain was heavy, though I set off and to my surprise I did the first pitch to the halve way point, very steadily and only pausing at one rock slab where I could not see foot holds very clearly at first. After doing the first pitch, the real problem arose. The person at the top could not get the rope down due to the severe wind as it kept blowing over to my right. After what seemed like ages the decision was made to abandon the climb and then panic set in when I was told I would have to go back down the way I came up.
I focused myself then went back down and was pleased with how I had coped and will try to get up to Skye next month while my confidence is high.
Wednesday was a total washout as we gave up just over halve way up Sgurr nan Gillean because of the wind and rain. The lady that owned the B&B that we were staying at told us that they had not had rain for 6-8 weeks. Just our luck.
Les
Friday 9 July 2010
Ruigh Aiteachain Bothy
My grandson, Chris, his dog Lou and I walked the six km from Aclean in Glen Feshie to the bothy on a dry but windy day. I have visited the glen before, but never the bothy. It is in what I consider to be one of the most fantastic Scottish glens I have seen. Caledonian pine forests, with plenty of space, a lovely river and trees allowed to remain where they have fallen.
On the way in, we met a walker who told us that he had come across three men who were going to the bothy. So we knew that we would have company--for the first time, as we had always had previous bothies to ourselves. Coming in sight of the bothy, we could see two, then three, four, five, no six people. Would there be room for us? It is only a small bothy, although we did not know how big or small.
On arrival. there were three men trying to light a stove outside in the wind. Apparently, they had tried it with diesel for the first time in the bothy, and filled the place with smoke and fumes. There were, in fact, eight people there. The other five were a family from Canada, Mother, father and two daughters aged about 11 and 14 years, and their cousin/guide from Scotland. And there was plenty of space for all of us. There are two rooms, one with bunk beds, that had been claimed by the Canadian five, and another with three sleeping platforms and a stove. (By the way, there is also a toilet! It's outside in a small hut, but that's better than most bothies)
Chris (and Lou) and I stayed in the second room with the three walkers, who had come in on foot from Kingussie. And the next day were planning to walk to Ryvoan bothy via Aviemore. They eventually gave up on the diesel for the stove and decided to try to get some petrol from one of the houses on the other side of the River Feshie. Unfortunately, the bridge at Carnachuin has only recently been washed away, so they had to ford the river both ways. But they were successful in obtaining petrol from the estate and also getting the stove working.
The room with the wood burning stove was the obvious place for everyone to congregate, so we did get to socialise. Rowan, the Scottish cousin, took charge of the stove, but encouraged Chris to help. He is a keen bothy visitor and walker, and had persuaded the Canadians, Ken, Catherine, Abbie and Gillian to try the "bothy experience".
The next day, Tuesday, the three men left on their 20 mile (they guessed!) walk, while the family headed for the Munro of Mullach Clach a'Bhlair with Rowan. Chris, Lou and I went to have a look at the remains of the bridge, and then followed the path up towards the Munro, but only for a short way. Back to the bothy for lunch, and then a leisurely wander up the glen. The character of the glen changes further upstream as it becomes narrower and steeper. We came across a previous landslide caused by the extremely fragile rock.
Supper was prepared and eaten, with Lou making friends with anyone who had food, and endearing herself to everyone. Chris was put in charge of the fire by Rowan and told to keep it alight all night, by putting logs on every hour!
Next morning, we awoke (to a cold fire!) and started to pack. Everyone was leaving that day. Rowan had come in by cycle and trailer, carrying an incredible amount of food and coal for the family, and of course, had to the ford the river, and would have to again on the way back.
After tidying up, we made our farewells and walked back in lovely sunshine.
Our thanks to Ken, Catherine, Abbie and Gillian, and Rowan for making our first bothy stay with company so pleasurable. And I think that the bothy experience was a success for them as well, even the two children.
Thursday 8 July 2010
Advice please
I am thinking of getting a mountain bike. I have resisted so far, but with the purchase of a motorhome, as well as those distant hills, I think it might prove useful. Investigating the difference in front and rear suspension just caused more confusion with terms such as rigid, hard tail etc...! I don't want to spend a lot, and have a friend who no longer uses her front suspension (I think) mountain bike and will sell it to me for £80. Or do I look further before I decide. Please can someone advise the best type to go for. Help, please...
Monday 5 July 2010
Steal Bridge again
As you can see in this picture, the wire is not actually broken. Instead, one of the two steel cables, which make up the "foot rope", has come loose from its fixing. On the face of it, it would not be difficult to re-attach it ?
The fact that it is taking so long to do anything at all, makes me suspect that the lawyers and/or H&S people have got involved.
Despite the notice on the bridge, " DANGEROUS STRUCTURE - DO NOT CROSS", it is clearly possible to cross - see this picture, taken this afternoon.
Sunday 4 July 2010
Coire Mhic Fhearchair, Torridon
I've walked through Coire Mhic Fhearchair before, on my way to Ruadh-stac Mor on Beinn Eighe but had forgotten about the tragic incident of March, 1951. It was therefore a great surprise to me on Friday on my descent from Sail Mhor to come across a great deal of wreckage still strewn around the area. A Lancaster bomber on a training mission from RAF Kinloss hit the Triple Buttress with the loss of all life, and due to the terrain it took 2 months to recover the bodies. This incident led to the formation of the RAF Mountain Rescue teams as we know them today.
I've read that afterwards the aircraft was blown up with explosives, and this is the reason for all the debris covering such a large area. Having "Googled" about aircraft accidents around that time, I'm really shocked about how many there were. Such a tragic loss of life !
Troubled by wind in Torridon !
Another "Top Bagging" exercise, but this time with a poor forecast for high winds, and so it turned out.
The main objective was Meall Dearg (Northern Pinnacles) on Liathach, described as one of the hardest Tops - that's the pointy one in the middle picture, but reached by us from Loch Coire na Caime, by rough ground and a steep ascent, the grassy parts of which were a bit greasy. This misses out the bulk of the Pinnacles, see the next photo . I'm not sure I could have got to Meall Dearg over the Pinnacles but I know many in the Club who could !
With the wind getting up we then opted to walk over to Beinn Eighe, climbing Sail Mhor from the South. By this stage the gusts were furious and so we aborted the plan to climb the Ceum Grannda (the ugly step) which would have led to the next top of Coinneach Mhor. That's it, right on top of the famous Triple Buttress above Coire Mhic Fhearchair.(Top picture)
Instead we opted for relative shelter by descending to the Coire, and a longish, very windy walk out.
Anyway, for me this means a future return to Beinn Eighe, hopefully on a less windy day ! - that's someting to look forward to.
Wednesday 23 June 2010
Excellent Reports of recent Club Walks
I've just read Mike's report of his (solitary) day out on Creise. What a super story, well written, and with some excellent photographs. Well done.
Maybe the committee should consider an end of year prize for the best report published during the year, and this might encourage more members to submit material to Ron.
Meantime, Mike gets my vote !
Maybe the committee should consider an end of year prize for the best report published during the year, and this might encourage more members to submit material to Ron.
Meantime, Mike gets my vote !
Monadh Mor & Beinn Bhrotain (Cairngorms)
On a day when the weather forecast was for bursts of rain with cloud maybe down to 700 m, Ron and I set out to do these rather remote hills, hoping that our navigational skills would not be too tested.
On reaching Glen Feshie, all the hills were clear and it was dry! In fact, the whole walk was characterised by the dryness, both in the air and on the ground. I don't think that I have seen the hills as dry as this for a very long time, if ever. Apart from a fairly strong northerly wind, conditions were ideal, and we made good time.
Crossing the plateau SE of Carn Ban Mor, Ron pointed out an adult dotterel and three chicks (there may have been more but that's all I saw). There were still extensive areas of snow on all the hills around, but we only had to negotiate one small patch.
On reaching Monadh Mor, the views to the east were spectacular with Sgor an Lochain Uaine, Cairn Toul and the Devil's Peak particularly so. Ron has done the first two, also from Glen Feshie, so I was trying to see a possible route for me, as I have not. After the almost flat Monadh Mor came the climb up the boulder field that is Beinn Bhrotain, then back by almost the same route. Eight and a half hours to do about 28 km and 1600 m climb-not bad (for me anyway).
Then the drive home, and not a chippy between Glen Feshie and Fort William!
On reaching Glen Feshie, all the hills were clear and it was dry! In fact, the whole walk was characterised by the dryness, both in the air and on the ground. I don't think that I have seen the hills as dry as this for a very long time, if ever. Apart from a fairly strong northerly wind, conditions were ideal, and we made good time.
Crossing the plateau SE of Carn Ban Mor, Ron pointed out an adult dotterel and three chicks (there may have been more but that's all I saw). There were still extensive areas of snow on all the hills around, but we only had to negotiate one small patch.
On reaching Monadh Mor, the views to the east were spectacular with Sgor an Lochain Uaine, Cairn Toul and the Devil's Peak particularly so. Ron has done the first two, also from Glen Feshie, so I was trying to see a possible route for me, as I have not. After the almost flat Monadh Mor came the climb up the boulder field that is Beinn Bhrotain, then back by almost the same route. Eight and a half hours to do about 28 km and 1600 m climb-not bad (for me anyway).
Then the drive home, and not a chippy between Glen Feshie and Fort William!
Monday 21 June 2010
Skye - Knight's Peak & The Bhasteir Tooth
I knew that if I am to bag all the Munro Tops then two in Skye would give me ( as a non rock climber) some difficulty, so last week I hired a guide and successfully climbed those two, in a very enjoyable and exhilarating day.
This picture shows, in profile, Pinnacle Ridge on Sgurr nan Gillean, the first two pinnacles being quite modest. Number 3 is the one where an abseil off is the usual way, whilst number 4 is Knight's Peak, with a rocky spine connecting this to the main summit of Gillean via the West Ridge.
The second photo above is of a following party (from Glenmore Lodge) negotiating Number 3, and I took this whilst on Knight's Peak.
After Gillean, reached by an interesting bit of exposed rock climbing we traversed over Am Basteir, a bit of down-climbing then ensued and suddenly, all that was left was a little scramble to the summit of the "Tooth", easier than I had anticipated. Then a small descent into what could best be described as a cave before emerging onto a rocky ledge in King's Chimney . Out over the edge into thin air on a stout rope onto the scree below, and a trudge down the Bhasteir Gorge path to the Slig for a celebratory pint - a great day out in perfect conditions. (The top photo is my guide, Jonah, dropping onto terra firma from the top of the Chimney on the Tooth)
Friday 18 June 2010
The midges are back
According to the BBC, the midges are back and worse than ever. Evidently, the hard winter has killed a lot of the creatures (small birds, bats etc) which eat the little devils. For sure they were out and about in Torridon this week. I was wondering what people recommend to keep the little b.......s at bay ?
I tried Avon Skin so Soft (appears to be recommended by army types) but found it almost ineffective. The best I have found is MozzyOff but it seems to lose its effectiveness - you have to buy a new bottle every year and I could not find any last year. Does any know if the firm has gone out of business or, if not, where I can buy some ?
This year, I am trying Nikwax Skitostop - a combined sun screen and insect repellent. And if it does not work, I can always put it on my boots, I guess. Not convinced about it yet - it certainly works for a bit but you may have to re-apply it rather too often to be convenient. Also, it comes in a plastic dispenser thing which is not very reliable.
What do other people use ? Or do hillwalkers just man it out and suffer in silence ?
Thursday 17 June 2010
Strathcarron trip
Mike, Jimmy, Fern (my GSD) and I set of just before 10am, past Achnashellach station and up the forestry track. Mike was quick to point out our path, which I had walked right by! It was nice to have a good, dry path, gently ascending into the valley, and the views of Coire lair got better and better. We checked the river crossing for the return and decided we would have no problem as it was very low after our relatively dry spring.
Then the real hard work started as we climbed to the 876 eastern top of Beinn Liath Mhor where we were rewarded with spectacular views of Torridon and its hills. After a quick bite we headed off along the ridge, which was harder going than one might think, due to the rocky terrain.
We reached the summit on schedule 3hrs40 after heading off. Another quick bite and we set off down to the head of the coire. Some of this was tricky, but Mike’s wee book kept us on the right path through the crags which we negotiated carefully. Then we stopped at the lochan for a swim (for the dog), before starting off on our next climb up to Sgorr Rhuadh.
By this time we were beginning to tire, but still on schedule. The cloud came in a bit at the summit, and I put on waterproofs. Then we started our long descent past Loch a’ Bhealaich Mhor where Mike decided to bag the Corbett too (Fuar Tholl) while he was in the area!
Jimmy, Fern and I carried on down, our legs definitely weary by now. It was a relief to be back at the van, 8 ½ hours after setting off, having had a super day out. We changed our shoes and socks, and Mike appeared down the road. We met Cris and gave her a lift back up to Torridon where we met Ron and the five of us had a lovely meal in the Torridon Hotel bar.
Then the real hard work started as we climbed to the 876 eastern top of Beinn Liath Mhor where we were rewarded with spectacular views of Torridon and its hills. After a quick bite we headed off along the ridge, which was harder going than one might think, due to the rocky terrain.
We reached the summit on schedule 3hrs40 after heading off. Another quick bite and we set off down to the head of the coire. Some of this was tricky, but Mike’s wee book kept us on the right path through the crags which we negotiated carefully. Then we stopped at the lochan for a swim (for the dog), before starting off on our next climb up to Sgorr Rhuadh.
By this time we were beginning to tire, but still on schedule. The cloud came in a bit at the summit, and I put on waterproofs. Then we started our long descent past Loch a’ Bhealaich Mhor where Mike decided to bag the Corbett too (Fuar Tholl) while he was in the area!
Jimmy, Fern and I carried on down, our legs definitely weary by now. It was a relief to be back at the van, 8 ½ hours after setting off, having had a super day out. We changed our shoes and socks, and Mike appeared down the road. We met Cris and gave her a lift back up to Torridon where we met Ron and the five of us had a lovely meal in the Torridon Hotel bar.
The next day Mike was keen to do something on the way home so, with the forecast better further east, we stopped at Ben Wyvis. It was cloudy and when the rain started I decided to do the corbet instead, but Mike and Jimmy carried on and reached the summit.
This was a rather impromptu trip, rather short notice as the weather is always such a big factor. If anyone wants to join us if we are heading off on another such trip, often midweek and weather dependant, please get in touch.
This was a rather impromptu trip, rather short notice as the weather is always such a big factor. If anyone wants to join us if we are heading off on another such trip, often midweek and weather dependant, please get in touch.
Tuesday 15 June 2010
Isle of Arran Walk
While on our annual holiday with my wife to the Isle of Arran, I managed to do two(!) walks. The first was with Oban Walkers (including John Nicol!) from Lochranza to the Fairy Dell (keep your comments clean please!), a stroll of about 10km along the shore, then up and on to a track.
The second was much better and in similar weather--dry and warm with lots of sunshine! This time I walked up Glen Sannox to climb Cir Mhor. The walk up the glen was pleasant on a very good path, ending at the head of the glen in stone steps leading to a tricky chimney (lots of scrambling, but minimal exposure) to reach the Saddle, the col between North Goat Fell and Cir Mhor. There I was surprised to find a steep and rocky path up to the summit of Cir Mhor. My only prevous climb of Cir Mhor was several years ago, and I remembered the summit as being very exposed and scary! However, the exposure was only on the north side, and the views were exeptional. It was not as scary as the chimney!
To change the route down (and to avoid reverse scrambling down the chimney!), I descended north towards Caisteal Abhail (The Castles), but not climbing it. Instead I dropped down into Coire nan Uamh, causing a small rock avalanche on the very loose and steep climb down (good job there was no-one below me!). Coire nan Uamh is spectacular with steep slabby walls, and is a coire within a coire, which means that there is also another climb down to reach the floor of Glen Sannox and the way home.
Do consider this walk if you go to Arran in October. It can be varied, with additions to The Castles, North Goat Fell, A'Chir or Glen Rosa.
The second was much better and in similar weather--dry and warm with lots of sunshine! This time I walked up Glen Sannox to climb Cir Mhor. The walk up the glen was pleasant on a very good path, ending at the head of the glen in stone steps leading to a tricky chimney (lots of scrambling, but minimal exposure) to reach the Saddle, the col between North Goat Fell and Cir Mhor. There I was surprised to find a steep and rocky path up to the summit of Cir Mhor. My only prevous climb of Cir Mhor was several years ago, and I remembered the summit as being very exposed and scary! However, the exposure was only on the north side, and the views were exeptional. It was not as scary as the chimney!
To change the route down (and to avoid reverse scrambling down the chimney!), I descended north towards Caisteal Abhail (The Castles), but not climbing it. Instead I dropped down into Coire nan Uamh, causing a small rock avalanche on the very loose and steep climb down (good job there was no-one below me!). Coire nan Uamh is spectacular with steep slabby walls, and is a coire within a coire, which means that there is also another climb down to reach the floor of Glen Sannox and the way home.
Do consider this walk if you go to Arran in October. It can be varied, with additions to The Castles, North Goat Fell, A'Chir or Glen Rosa.
Tuesday 8 June 2010
Walk Programme-Sunday 20th June
G and I did a combination of both walks last Thursday since we are unlikely to be around on the day. The scramble up Sron na Creise is as easy as you want to make it. Hold to the crest of the ridge all the way, sound rock, mainly jugs, with a nice airy slabby bit on smaller but good holds. Conditions were ideal. Some will remember the last time the Club did this route, see post on “Pictures and Report from Older Walks” on our website for Sunday 1st March 2009. Then the conditions were far from ideal and we were forced into the gully to the right at times.
One can omit Meall a’ Bhuiridh and continue to Clach Leathad to descend by the SE ridge (Sron nam Forsair) towards Ba Bridge on the WHW. Some way down the ridge steepens considerably, giving a fine airy viewpoint. One could continue down to Ba Bridge, but we came back up a short distance to where a steep grassy slope leads down towards the Allt Coire an Easain. It is possible to thread a route through the crags to arrive at the outflow from the lochan. From here, a traverse rising about 80 metres gains the col NW of Creag an Fhirich. The Old Military Road, or the WHW can be reached north of their highest points by contouring round the bulging flank of Meall a Bhuridh, with a splendid perspective across Rannoch Moor.
Much more interesting than pounding back up the WHW, and shorter too. Don’t bother though if it’s wet (very boggy), or bad vis (very boring), the WHW would score higher.
Andrew G
One can omit Meall a’ Bhuiridh and continue to Clach Leathad to descend by the SE ridge (Sron nam Forsair) towards Ba Bridge on the WHW. Some way down the ridge steepens considerably, giving a fine airy viewpoint. One could continue down to Ba Bridge, but we came back up a short distance to where a steep grassy slope leads down towards the Allt Coire an Easain. It is possible to thread a route through the crags to arrive at the outflow from the lochan. From here, a traverse rising about 80 metres gains the col NW of Creag an Fhirich. The Old Military Road, or the WHW can be reached north of their highest points by contouring round the bulging flank of Meall a Bhuridh, with a splendid perspective across Rannoch Moor.
Much more interesting than pounding back up the WHW, and shorter too. Don’t bother though if it’s wet (very boggy), or bad vis (very boring), the WHW would score higher.
Andrew G
Tuesday 1 June 2010
Strathfarrer Six
Cris Bonomy and I did this ridge walk yesterday (Monday 31 May). We were at the locked gate at Struy at 8.30 to get our place in the queue and though the gate on the dot of 9.00. We took two cars - left one at the foot of the Coire Mhuillidh (finish of walk) and the other at the Allt Toll a Mhuic where we started walking.
We took the same track as the club weekend outing in March but discovered the path, which we followed then, continues in a gentle ascending traverse across the corrie headwall below Sgurr na Fearstaig. This looks like an old stalkers path - it has been dug out of the hill. It must have been buried by the snow in March. This time it was clear apart from a short stretch of 10m or so where we had to tip-toe across the remnants of an avalanche. On reaching the ridge, it was a left turn to Sgorr na Fearstaig which turns out to be a fabulous view point. The air was astonisingly clear and we could pick out Ben Nevis, Skye, Torridon, Loch Maree, Slioch, Fisherfield, An Teallach, Ben Klibreak, Ben Wyvis and the Cairngorms. Must have been over a hundred miles !
It was then a case of heading east along the ridge (clear path all the way) over Sgorr Fhuar-thuil, Creag Chorm a Bhealaich, Sgorr a Choire Ghlais, Carn nan Gobhar and Sgorr na Ruaidhe - 4 Munros and 2 Munro tops. The N side of the ridge as far as Sgorr a Choire Ghlais is very spectacular - it seemed like you could throw a stone from the path to land in Loch an an Fhur-thuill Mhor, 300m below. After Sgorr a Choire Ghlais, the character of the walk changes completely into gentle round hills covered in moss.
We got back to the car with about an hour to spare before the gate closed (7pm) so the two cars trick was probably a good move.
Since it was so clear, this was a unique opportunity to see the extent of remaining snow cover. Most hills still have the odd patch of snow but the ridges are black and should be fine for walking. The big Glen Affric hills, such as Sgurr nan Ceathreamhan, still have a lot of white stuff - presumably gullies etc where the drifting snow is many metres deep but the ridges are black. Probably OK for walking access though it might be prudent to take an axe in case you have a cross a steep slope of the white stuff. The big exception to this is the Cairngorms which are still covered in a continuous white layer. It is going to take several weeks yet for this to melt.
We took the same track as the club weekend outing in March but discovered the path, which we followed then, continues in a gentle ascending traverse across the corrie headwall below Sgurr na Fearstaig. This looks like an old stalkers path - it has been dug out of the hill. It must have been buried by the snow in March. This time it was clear apart from a short stretch of 10m or so where we had to tip-toe across the remnants of an avalanche. On reaching the ridge, it was a left turn to Sgorr na Fearstaig which turns out to be a fabulous view point. The air was astonisingly clear and we could pick out Ben Nevis, Skye, Torridon, Loch Maree, Slioch, Fisherfield, An Teallach, Ben Klibreak, Ben Wyvis and the Cairngorms. Must have been over a hundred miles !
We got back to the car with about an hour to spare before the gate closed (7pm) so the two cars trick was probably a good move.
Since it was so clear, this was a unique opportunity to see the extent of remaining snow cover. Most hills still have the odd patch of snow but the ridges are black and should be fine for walking. The big Glen Affric hills, such as Sgurr nan Ceathreamhan, still have a lot of white stuff - presumably gullies etc where the drifting snow is many metres deep but the ridges are black. Probably OK for walking access though it might be prudent to take an axe in case you have a cross a steep slope of the white stuff. The big exception to this is the Cairngorms which are still covered in a continuous white layer. It is going to take several weeks yet for this to melt.
"Topping" Bank Holiday walk !
Still on a Top bagging quest , I decided to aim for 5 Tops on three Munros which did rather result in a sort of "Gavin-esque" type of outing culminating in a route of 34.5k !
One of the Tops, Tom Dubh was described by Irvine Butterfield in his "High Mountains" book as "the most meaningless Top in all Britain", but on a fine day it was a good walk. However after a slow trudge up to the Braeriach summit, my effort was rewarded. Two photos here, one of the cornicing around the An Garbh Coire on Breariach, the other a distant shot of Ben Macdui for those who are planning to go on the Club outing later this month.
After that a fabulous walk to take in my 3 remaining Tops on Sgor Gaoith, all in glorious weather. Truly an outing to remember.
Norman
One of the Tops, Tom Dubh was described by Irvine Butterfield in his "High Mountains" book as "the most meaningless Top in all Britain", but on a fine day it was a good walk. However after a slow trudge up to the Braeriach summit, my effort was rewarded. Two photos here, one of the cornicing around the An Garbh Coire on Breariach, the other a distant shot of Ben Macdui for those who are planning to go on the Club outing later this month.
After that a fabulous walk to take in my 3 remaining Tops on Sgor Gaoith, all in glorious weather. Truly an outing to remember.
Norman
Friday 14 May 2010
Summer? What summer ?
I went for a little wander up to the CIC hut this morning. It was more like mid-December than mid-May. For anyone wondering how much snow there is - the snow starts around 700metres and this area is all N-facing.
I spoke to someone who did Castle Ridge yesterday - the main hazard was giant icicles crashing down, evidently !
Thursday 13 May 2010
Book Review
Scotland's Mountains before the Mountaineers
by Ian Mitchell, Luath Press 1998, Revised edition 2004. ISBN 0-946487-39-1
An excellent little paperback explaining who were the first people to conquer Scotland's mountains and why they did it. Tales of bandits, poachers and illicit distillers, combined with accounts of early map makers, road builders, geologists and others. A vast amount of research has gone into this work, which I would gladly keep as a reference book.
I particularly liked the account of Colonel Colby of the Ordnance Survey (who only had one hand) who pushed his men hard in 1819 whilst surveying large tracts of Scotland. They walked 513 miles in 22 days, took a rest day, and then walked 586 miles in another 22 days, climbing a mountain every other day, all the while measuring and surveying as they went ! )
As an example of what to take with you in 1800 I also liked the story of John Leyden ( who graduated from Edinburgh University at the age of 15) - "Having armed myself this forenoon with a hammer and a bottle of cider, I sallied out alone to ascend the steep lofty mountain of Cruachan Ben ". (He also walked from Oban to do so, and returned on foot the same day !!
The book is crammed full of historic exploits, well worthy of reading, perhaps not all at once but definitely one for the coffee table.
by Ian Mitchell, Luath Press 1998, Revised edition 2004. ISBN 0-946487-39-1
An excellent little paperback explaining who were the first people to conquer Scotland's mountains and why they did it. Tales of bandits, poachers and illicit distillers, combined with accounts of early map makers, road builders, geologists and others. A vast amount of research has gone into this work, which I would gladly keep as a reference book.
I particularly liked the account of Colonel Colby of the Ordnance Survey (who only had one hand) who pushed his men hard in 1819 whilst surveying large tracts of Scotland. They walked 513 miles in 22 days, took a rest day, and then walked 586 miles in another 22 days, climbing a mountain every other day, all the while measuring and surveying as they went ! )
As an example of what to take with you in 1800 I also liked the story of John Leyden ( who graduated from Edinburgh University at the age of 15) - "Having armed myself this forenoon with a hammer and a bottle of cider, I sallied out alone to ascend the steep lofty mountain of Cruachan Ben ". (He also walked from Oban to do so, and returned on foot the same day !!
The book is crammed full of historic exploits, well worthy of reading, perhaps not all at once but definitely one for the coffee table.
The forecast was good so Jimmy and I went to Glen Affric on Wednesday to do Tom a'Choinich and Toll Creagach. It was a two hour drive from Ballachulish, but they are two hills we've had in our sights for a while now. One thing I like about "munro bagging" is that it gets you to places you might not otherwise go. We were surprised by the amount of snow left in the corries, now well into May. But the ridge was clear and made a great ascent route over Creag na h-Ingninn. We
stopped every so often to catch our breath and admire the views down the snow covered Glen Affric hills.Then a contrast as we headed over Beallach Toll Easa to the relatively flat, round summit of Toll Creagach. Congratulations were in order - this was Jimmy's 200th munro. In just over six hours we were back at the car having had a another great day out. I think Tom a Choinich may be my favourite hill so far., but I'm looking forward to the next...
Tuesday 4 May 2010
On Sunday Norman introduced me to the joys of top bagging. After a 26km walk I admitted that it may not be for me! However we did have a super day. The weather was much improved from
the wintery day we had on Saturday so we set out from Morvich caravan site, acompanied by Norman's wife Kate, with a spring in our step. We had heard tales of Hunter's Pass and decided instead to take the tourist route along the Gleann Choinneachain and up Allt Coire an Sgairne. After a quick bite at the munro summit (my tick) we headed east to Sgurr a Dubh Doire and were rewarded with superb views into Glen Affric and beyond. Then back west past the summit and on to Meall an Fhuarain Mhoir to Norman's second top, and this time views across Kyle to the Cuillins. From here we also watched a lone soul heading off along the western ridge. No doubt this is the direct route back to Morvich, but our already weary legs chose to return by our ascent route. Just over seven hours from when we started we returned, tired but happy, having had a truly wonderful day. Thanks Norman.
Wednesday 28 April 2010
Pensioner's 100 Day Munro attempt
It's worth looking at the blog for Gerry McPartlin from Applecross who has recently started an ascent of all 283 Munros, hopefully in 100 days - aged 66. His blog is at :
http://dglmf.wordpress.com/gerry's-munro-blog/
It puts my puny efforts to shame !
http://dglmf.wordpress.com/gerry's-munro-blog/
It puts my puny efforts to shame !
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