Cruach Ardrain via Y Gully

[wilkiemurray]

There had been a major thaw in the few days leading up to Saturday so we were uncertain as to whether we would get any winter routes anywhere!!! However we tried Y GULLY (RIGHT BRANCH) hoping it would be complete. Using the binoculars confirmed that the route was complete (just) so off we headed from the A82 into Glen Falloch.
Video of day below
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=at4pBFOdmho&feature=BFa&list=UL327yBZbep8c&lf=mfu_in_order&shuffle=784790[/youtube]

We had a good early start and away from car a 8:)

early start

heading into Glen Falloch

Weather was looking ok with a high coud base and good visibility, the only question was whther the snow was firm enough!!

Nice walk up over Grey height and we follwed the ridge up to the base of the gully where we geared up. There were great views of nearby Ben More and right across southern highlands

Ben More

base of gully - looking sparse!!

The Gully did look a little thin but it was ok and complete and the snow was extra firm - perfect. So we soloed up, and had a great time. A very definite workout for the calf muscles!!!!

me following up at back!!

half way up

top of gully

Once we had reached the top of the Gully we decided on headin straight back down and missing the summit. More brownie points for getting home early

We descended back the way we came until Grey hieght where were headed est - got a bit lost in the plantations but finally found the bridge across the railline and back to the car...

almost finished

[mgmt!]

well done, i really enjoy doing the gullies in the winter a good alternative route if available. and even better a snow gully on descent, a lot easier on the knees.

[tomyboy73]

excellent, glad you got enough snow

[wilkiemurray]

we just had enough snow but the snow we did have was in good nick