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This was my first solo Munro in the snow and ice. I know there are a lot of reports for this route so I will get on with it !
Parked up at Ardvolich House and set off just before 10 am this morning.The path starts off running up the side of a stream, then follow the "Hillwalkers" signs. After a couple of crossings over streams and a couple of styles you are on a good path in the open hillside.You cant go wrong. My first proper look at Ben Vorlich and it looked cracking capped in snow.
- First look at Ben Vorlich capped in snow
The surrounding hills looked fab all capped in snow.
- Snow capped mountains
The path is good and because it was so cold it was nice and firm ! Soon I was getting closer and got ready to enter the snow and ice which started around 500 meters. At this stage the camera went away as it was very slidey !!
- Entering the snow and ice
The next section was quite tricky. In particular the last 100 meters were like an ice rink ! The other 2 men I met were of the same opinion and care had to be taken. Once on the summit the views were worth it. All surrounding hills capped in snow. Although I didnt hang arround long. The summit was freezing and it was blowing a gale ! There was a mini snow storm on top as the wind was whipping all the snow up !
Summit trig
- Trig point
Stuc a` chroin looked awesome.
- Stuc a` Chroin
And so did the other mountains !
- Surrounding hills
I then went down to the Bealach between the Munros to have a better look at Stuc. The descent again was tricky as at this side the snow was knee deep !
- Knee deep in snow !
- Descending to the Bealach
Once down I had a good look at the Prow of Stuc and admit I didnt fancy it in these conditions. It will always be there another day !
- The Prow
I then made my way down and veered round the base of Ben Vorlich. The views were still great.
- Distant Munros
- Looking North to the Lawers Range
Back at the car I was a bit disappointed not to have bagged Stuc but didnt think it was worth the risk. All in all though I had a great day.