by inca » Mon Oct 21, 2013 10:31 pm
Date walked: 12/10/2013
Time taken: 5.5 hours
Distance: 13 km
Ascent: 1155m
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Left Edinburgh early and arrived at Polldubh car park at 0830 hours. Temperature: -1 degrees C but sunny with long shadows on the hills. Foolishly forgot to bring change for metered parking which necessitated a brief return trip to Fort William. Ready to rock and roll properly by 0930 hours and set off southbound on stalkers path beside the Allt Coire a'Mhusgain. (Path itself isn't immediately obvious from the car park and -as WH route suggests- needs a reference point by going to the road bridge nearby.)
Made good progress, overtaking 2 older walkers higher up glen and stopping only once for a water break. Sgurr a' Mhaim to the left was impressive but it was Stob Ban to the right really grabbed the attention - it's a magnificent shapely mountain. By this time, temperature was rising and all summits were free of cloud. Further good progress from bealach on clear path to summit of Stob Ban. Stopped there for 20-30 mins, taking pics and eating quick lunch. Views in all directions were superb, particularly towards the Ring of Steall tops and a beefy looking Ben Nevis.
Followed ridge north on obvious path towards summit of Mullach nan Coirean. Fairly easy going over knoll and passed a number of other hillwalkers going in the opposite direction. Summit of MnC not as impressive as its neighbour but fine views nonetheless. Followed the WH route of descent - was okay but the section downwards beside the high fence was unpleasant - steep, slippy and waterlogged in places. Picked up forestry paths and track for remainder - much more pleasant experience. Right turn on arriving at the Glen Nevis road and back to car.
