Ben Nevis via CMD arete
Posted: Sun Aug 26, 2018 4:43 pmConditions: dry, still, hot (almost to hot!) Completely clear.
Notes: initally good path through the forest acending gradually. When out of the forest we followed the path towards the CIC hut but veered off this towards CMD. The path was pretty boggy lower down but improved higher up. The climb was relatively gradual but long making it feel harder. Eventually made it to the first munro (Carn Mor Dearg) to stunning views and a nice picnic spot. From here, there was an easy rocky climb down to the arete. The arete itself was easy going and wide enough to reduce exposure but with quite abit of hands on. Only one thin section, feeling much more exposed. However, this wasn't very long and easily crawled if scared (although if able to overcome irrational fear easily walked). This was followed by an easy bouldery climb to Ben Nevis' summit where the masses were asembling. The weather was still amazing so fantasic views where had all round, absolute treat. Headed back down the tourist track which was long, boring and busy. Before peeling off at the lake to continue our descent through pathless boggy terrain. This was followed by a river crossing which was quite tricky but managed to keep feet dry. We then retraced our steps back down the path through the forest back to the car.
Enjoyability: 10/10
Hardness: 5/10
Notes: initally good path through the forest acending gradually. When out of the forest we followed the path towards the CIC hut but veered off this towards CMD. The path was pretty boggy lower down but improved higher up. The climb was relatively gradual but long making it feel harder. Eventually made it to the first munro (Carn Mor Dearg) to stunning views and a nice picnic spot. From here, there was an easy rocky climb down to the arete. The arete itself was easy going and wide enough to reduce exposure but with quite abit of hands on. Only one thin section, feeling much more exposed. However, this wasn't very long and easily crawled if scared (although if able to overcome irrational fear easily walked). This was followed by an easy bouldery climb to Ben Nevis' summit where the masses were asembling. The weather was still amazing so fantasic views where had all round, absolute treat. Headed back down the tourist track which was long, boring and busy. Before peeling off at the lake to continue our descent through pathless boggy terrain. This was followed by a river crossing which was quite tricky but managed to keep feet dry. We then retraced our steps back down the path through the forest back to the car.
Enjoyability: 10/10
Hardness: 5/10