free to be able to rate and comment on reports (as well as access 1:25000 mapping).
A group of four of us climbed Ben Hope on Saturday 30th of August 2014. Staying at Altnaharra, it was around 30 minutes to the start point next to a farm shed to the (centre) West of the hill. OS Grid ref: NC 461 476 - and there is plenty parking around this area. Note that on the day there were two bridges that had been washed out and either temporary repairs or a bypass put in place. The local council had left 'Road Closed' signs at either end and would not allow rescue vehicles access in the event of an accident/two being required.
From the start point we headed west on a clearly marked path (Sign saying 'Way Up Ben Hope') and up the lower slopes and by the time we reached the ridge line the cloud had settled in for the day bringing with it the odd downpour. Not to be phased we cracked on to the top and found the climb fairly straight forward. On the way back down we were rewarded with a clear view as we left the clouds again and took the chance to get some photos. Watch out though as the lower slopes have a tendency to be a bit soggy and peaty in places.... as one of us found out when going in up to the waist
Although there was low laying cloud (1800ft-ish) and a wee bit damp, it was a great day out and a steady climb/descent.
