free to be able to rate and comment on reports (as well as access 1:25000 mapping).
We spent some time debating where to head for the weather was particularly favourable- for a change
We left the decision to the cloud situation as we entered Crianlarich, clouds left so turned right
Parked up and headed down to the bridge ,with care I may add- someone had glassed over the road.No barking dogs today as we passed the farm and headed up the sheep-sh*t track onto the hill. Rather icy on the way up,discussed who would fall on the way down, and Mags got the vote
First of the day
IMGP1674 by
BoydBlair, on Flickr
IMGP1675 by
BoydBlair, on Flickr
Doogz and Mags past the Icy Gate section
IMGP1676 by
BoydBlair, on Flickr
We are being watched
IMGP1677 by
BoydBlair, on Flickr
Stayed on the track for a while, and decided to head straight up towards the summit leaving out some of the undulations of the ridge.The sun was just popping over the horizon behind us and the views were opening up as we climbed steadily onwards. The usual hilarity was in evidence as we can't walk without it, it's the law you know !! Today was a day for loads of pictures,but I will spare you them all
although you are missing out !
IMGP1682 by
BoydBlair, on Flickr
IMGP1680 by
BoydBlair, on Flickr
IMGP1681 by
BoydBlair, on Flickr
The conditions underfoot were better as we climbed, unless you consider deep snow less preferable than ice
Some sections were drifted deep. The sun was warming up a touch,and the day was looking good
Me
IMGP1695 by
BoydBlair, on Flickr
Doogz
IMGP1700 by
BoydBlair, on Flickr
Mags
IMGP1701 by
BoydBlair, on Flickr
Some cloud was drifting forming some fine formations, which became more dramatic as the morning progressed
IMGP1699 by
BoydBlair, on Flickr
Heading for the summit after a small rehydration stop, across sections of softer ice and some slushy snow. A fine sight ahead as the top was sparkling in the sun.
IMGP1705 by
BoydBlair, on Flickr
Some more of the cloud formation
IMGP1708 by
BoydBlair, on Flickr
IMGP1713 by
BoydBlair, on Flickr
IMGP1716 by
BoydBlair, on Flickr
No such cloud over here
IMGP1717 by
BoydBlair, on Flickr
Icicles
IMGP1720 by
BoydBlair, on Flickr
Frozen lochan
IMGP1722 by
BoydBlair, on Flickr
Dramatic skies
IMGP1723 by
BoydBlair, on Flickr
From the Summit cairn
IMGP1730 by
BoydBlair, on Flickr
As you can see a lot brighter across in the direction of Lawers in the background
IMGP1733 by
BoydBlair, on Flickr
Spent some time at the Summit, the views were grabbing so much of our attention. Some lovely Oxtail Soup for warmth, and more pics.
IMGP1736 by
BoydBlair, on Flickr
IMGP1738 by
BoydBlair, on Flickr
IMGP1742 by
BoydBlair, on Flickr
Ben Challum
IMGP1739 by
BoydBlair, on Flickr
Zoomed shot between the gap to Lawers
IMGP1743 by
BoydBlair, on Flickr
Ben Lui
IMGP1753 by
BoydBlair, on Flickr
IMGP1756 by
BoydBlair, on Flickr
Across to Lochearnhead
IMGP1757 by
BoydBlair, on Flickr
IMGP1761 by
BoydBlair, on Flickr
Left the Summit and strolled down elated at the walk we have had, a truly enjoyable experience
We spotted a group of about 15 walkers snaking their way up Meall Ghlas, in three groups.
Zoomed shot of the top group just under the summit
IMGP1768 by
BoydBlair, on Flickr
The was now in retreat across Ben More
IMGP1770 by
BoydBlair, on Flickr
Much more hilarity on the way back as Mags seemed to find every hole under the snow, and was rarely on her feet
Back down on the icier section we just took our time and strolled out.
Final shot of Ben More
IMGP1771 by
BoydBlair, on Flickr
The final pic of the day sees us being watched on our way out through the gate before the farm, keeping a beady eye on us
IMGP1774 by
BoydBlair, on Flickr
A thoroughly enjoyable day out.