The Heights of Caithness

[Mrs Scoob]

Still trying to follow the best weather, we decided to head far north to see the year in. Glad we went for this bigger walk today - it was stunning!
Scoob's video

31Dec21 Scaraben to Morven.gpx Open full screen  NB: Walkhighlands is not responsible for the accuracy of gpx files in users posts

Setting off we decided to take the left track first, helpfully signposted for Scaraben

It was boggy along the ATV track but we managed to keep the feet fairly dry by picking out our own line

The clouds were moving around over Morven and Smean; Maiden Pap would be left for another day :D

Scaraben summit in a cold wind

We had thought about skirting under, but glad we went over this extra top :)

Down Scaraben, heading for Smean next - again, the bog wasn't too bad in between

Definitely leaving Maiden Pap over there for another day :D

We went left as we reached the top to climb the tor on Smean - the rock was slippery, so we took the easier path on the other side on the way back down

Impressive viewpoint on Smean

Heading over to Morven for the last pull up. We were pleased to stumble upon the track up here; we ended up contouring back to it on the way back too (after starting to take a straighter line, but it was just more boulders)

The clouds were coming back in behind/under us as we climbed

Morven summit :)

Morven looking like Mount Teide (known for this shadow) :D

On the boggy trudge back to pick up the good track at the trees up ahead here

Maiden Pap looking dramatic in the fading light and low cloud; we still have this one to look forward to

Our stats for today; just made it back without torches