by Mal Grey » Wed Oct 04, 2017 11:45 am
Mad? No, not necessarily, as long as you plan properly, wear or carry the right gear, and make sensible decisions on the day.
A few things to consider, apologies if you already know all this:
Make sure the forecast is reasonable.
How is your navigation? Yes, there is a path all the way, but anybody in the mountains should know how to read a map and use a compass. Paths can be lost surprisingly easily if the cloud comes down, or the wrong path can be taken. A simple look at map, and a check of direction with a compass, would stop this happening. Electronic devices (phones/GPS) can certainly help you navigate, but do not rely only on them, take a paper map too, even if its only a print out of the OS map (in a plastic bag to keep dry).
Take enough clothing. It need not be the latest in high technology gear, what it needs to do is stop you getting cold. It does this both through insulation and through protecting you from the wet. A waterproof outer layer combined with several other layers, which can be taken on and off as required, is the main thing. I wear a base layer, thin fleece and carry a spare thicker insulating layer. Stuff should be quick drying, jeans are definitely a no-no. Don't forget gloves and a hat. At this time of year it is likely to be rather cold on top.
The single most important bit of equipment is your footwear. It needs to be comfortable, have enough grip and support for rough terrain, and it shouldn't be the first time you wear it. Most use boots, but some happily use "approach shoes", trainers designed specifically for walking/hills. Many of these will have a waterproof membrane.
Eat small amounts often, rather than just all at once. More importantly, drink quite often. I also often carry a flask of soup in winter, can't beat a warming cup when its wild.
However, don't carry so much stuff the weight of your rucksack is stupid, all the above should fit in a 30 Litre daysack.
The main thing on the day is not to push on regardless. Set off fairly early, take it nice and steady, rest whenever you feel like it, take on board some snacks. If either fitness or weather make you concerned about continuing, its important to recognise this and make the decision to turn around. Keep an eye on your timing, allowing just as long for the descent as the ascent should give you some spare as normally its actually quicker.
All this is making it sound like a major expedition. Its not, as long as you take a sensible approach, you'll be absolutely fine. And you won't really be on your own, not on Ben Lomond, unless the weather is really rubbish in which case you should probably wait for a better day anyway! Have fun!
