Ben Damph, the perfect autumn outing

[evansp]

A glorious October Sunday and not another soul on the hill - because they were all on the neighbouring Munros - made the walk even more special. We shared it only with ptarmigan, rutting stags roaring in the corries and an eagle soaring majestically.
The stalking track up through the trees provides a pleasant and steady start, allowing height to be gained quickly, though it's worth stopping now and then for the stunning views of Liathach, Beinn Alligin and Beinn Eighe behind.

Looking back at Liathach and Beinn Eighe.

The ground becomes much boggier as the stalking track deteriorates - especially after heavy rain. The views improve and become more expansive as height is gained to compensate for the rougher going underfoot.

Taking a rest close to the bealach.

It's easy to miss the rather indistinct path that heads to the right around the rocky top that confronts you after the initial steeper section up the ridge from the bealach.

Neighbouring hill and a mouthful to pronounce, Sgurr na Bana Mhoraire.

Going too high involves an awkward scramble over boulders.
The final ascent to the summit is exhilarating, though anyone who dislikes exposure might find the gaping corrie to the left rather intimidating. Care is also needed on the bouldery path surface not to turn an ankle.

View from the ridge nearing the summit.

The panorama stretching out from the summit, with Maol Chean Dearg prominent, is spectacular. Those who set their sights only on the Munros are missing a lot if they fail to ascend this fine hill, and there's the benefit of an award-winning pub and a meal after the day's exertions.

[mountain coward]

Is that the Corbett right opposite the 'corner' of Liathach (to the East I think it was)? It looks fierce! Which is the award winning pub?

[john923]

Yes it's certainly a fine hill and I guess it's more famous neighbours get more of the traffic. We did this in the middle of August three years back and were the only ones up there that day. And as you say the views are excellent - it had clouded over by the time we got to the top but a little before then we got some good pics. This one is still one of my favourites.

I remember seeing goats on the top. Are they still there?

By the way, m c, the pub would be the Ben Damph Inn, well what else did you expect!

[evansp]

Don't worry mountain coward, the hill's not as fierce as it appears - and it is indeed the one "opposite" Liathach - though a certain amount of care is needed in places. Cracking picture John. Will be adding some of my own shortly. The pub referred to, by the way, is the Torridon Inn, conveniently right where the walk starts and finishes. Didn't see any goats but the stags were in full voice!
Pete