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After an enforced absence, it was good to get back out on the hill.
A glorious morning, but as I suspected that the Falls of Leny car park would be busy, I left early and arrived at 8.15. Even at that hour, there were quite a few cars there and only a few places remaining. Parked up and was on my way by 8.30. The initial forest has now been cleared, so whilst the ground was much more open, it was quite messy, but the well constructed path allowed good progress to be made. As I passed under the crags just before the path reaches the broad south ridge, I could see that the new path-works are almost complete. Once this work is done, there will be an excellent path all of the way from the car park to the summit - no more floundering in boggy ground! During the ascent, there were lots of photographers making their way down which would account for the number of cars at the foot of the hill. The path allowed me to ascend swiftly, despite my lack of fitness, and I was at the memorial cross two hours after setting out.
- The memorial cross just below the summit
- The memorial cross and trig point
Thanks to my early start, I had the summit to myself - for at least 5 minutes before groups began to arrive! Had some food looking over Loch Lubnaig and thinking how far away Benvane looked!
- Looking north from Ben Ledi toward Benvane with the Lawers range behind
- Looking east over Loch Katrine and Loch Arklet
I had long wanted to see Lochan nan Corp to the north of Ben Ledi, but any time I had been here before, circumstances had dictated that I descend by the path - so today I was looking forward to putting this right. From the summit, I headed north and found that there was quite a distinct path to follow. Unfortunately I was beguiled by the path heading down towards Stank Glen and as a result had to cut across to the main ridge, which is marked by a series of fenceposts. The bonus for this was the sight of a female snow bunting.
- Looking back to the summit from near the Lochan
- Approaching the Lochan with Benvane behind
Once back on track, I was soon at the bealach and from there it is only a short climb to the Lochan.
- The long anticipated Lochan nan Corp!
- Ben Ledi from the Lochan
From here to Benvane, the going is pretty undulating, with quite a few peat hags and slipped ground - as a result, I had to take a few detours. It would be better on a really cold day, but that wasn't my experience.
- Lots of lovely peat to negotiate!
It was hard going from here to Benvane, but at least I had the compensation of great views to take my mind off it! As with all hills, after a lot of huffing and puffing, I eventually arrived at the summit of my second Corbett of the day.
- Looking back to Ben Ledi - it does look at long way off!
When I climbed Benvane before (in 1982!) I came up the broad north ridge. This is much easier option, but the route today alloed me to climb two Corbetts.
- Looking north from Benvane
- Looking over Loch Lubnaig to Ben Vorlich and Stuc a Chroin
I set off on the long walk back to the lochan just before two. When I reached the bealach, I was pleased to find a path leading down into Stank Glen where I could pick up the Forestry Commission path heading to Loch Lubnaig. Unfortunately, once I got the the track nearer the houses at Stank, the signage could have been clearer and some of the footpaths here are eroded. Undeterred, I soon reached the road at the lochside and was soon back at the car.
A great day to get back out, but quite a slog along the ridge and back.
- Benvane selfie!