So this is Ben Nevis

[James59]

Being an avid mountain type, my main goal during my recent trip to Scotland was to hike up Ben Nevis. I knew very little about the mountain a few months ago, other than the fact that it is the UK's highest peak. I was surprised to learn that thousands upon thousands of people hike to the summit every year. On discovering this, I decided I would hike up the mountain's backside, to avoid the crowds, at least on the way up. But at the last minute, for logistical reasons, I was forced to do the standard mountain path instead. As I'd read about, I encountered dozens (maybe hundreds?) of people on the mountain after I set out from the Ben Nevis Inn. I do most of my big hikes alone, so it was a rather unusual experience for me. But I have to say that I actually enjoyed the company—especially the two guys wearing their white-and-black striped Newcastle (?) football (soccer) jerseys. (They looked like hockey referees to me.) Thanks to the mainly clear day, there were some wonderful views on the way up, and I enjoyed scanning my preferred ridge route from the top. I didn't stay at the summit too long, because the midges (which I'd also read about) were out in full force. All in all, a memorable hike.