That's Attow Do It

[malky_c]

and to cry a little.

Yes, I cry too... everytime I read a bl00dy midweek report like this . Anyway, fabulous report on a hill that has always interested me despite not having been up it yet .

Seems to be a Thursday thing this year. Don't worry, I've just written up a midweek report that restores the balance!

Loved this, will dfinitely repeat at some point. Great photos on the bad step - missed this out before for some reason.

[Oldman]

Brilliant report - informative and exciting. The reading of it kept me on the edge of my seat. Not a walk for the faint hearted like me but a real pleasure to read of it and join you there in spirit. Early in your report you mention 'diamond-sparkling snow crystals' - I assume these were suspended in the air. Given the conditions you describe - clear sky, calm wind and sub-zero temperatures, they were a phenomenon technically known as known as 'diamond dust' i.e. a suspension of tiny ice crystals in the air which shine like diamonds in the sun. These are most often reported in high latitudes and although they seldom affect visibility they can occasionally reduce visibility to as low as 600m. They probably occur quite often in Highland Scotland but are not often reported. During my career as a weather man I witnessed this phenomenon on a few occasions, the most noticeable and first time when I was an observer at Eskdalemuir Observatory in the bad winter of 1962-63. They are the most beautiful thing to witness. Thanks for the great report and pics. Safe walking.

Oldman

[davidsda]

You have a way with words - truely enjoyed reading this.

[jester]

Cracking photos there

[yokehead]

Thanks for all your kind comments folks.

Early in your report you mention 'diamond-sparkling snow crystals' - I assume these were suspended in the air. Given the conditions you describe - clear sky, calm wind and sub-zero temperatures, they were a phenomenon technically known as known as 'diamond dust'

Sadly, I was describing the more mundane (but still superb) effect of the sun on snow crystals on the ground. I'd love to see the diamond dust phenomenon and wonder if any WH readers have done so? Sounds as if it's even more elusive than the Brocken Spectre though. Photo of my version (camera doesn't do it full justice):

snow a sparkle

Hope you won't mind indulging me with a few more photos from the day

ridge cliifs

delicate cornice, animal tracks and blue yonder

zoom of Sgritheall beyond the northern 5 Sisters. Looks like it has a glacier.
Another must-do ridge - running in from the right then curving away from the camera - see Kinley's report

Torridon giants, also on the to-do list!

just me and the snow.......

1st part of the ridge

mid-way

swan song

Cheers all and enjoy your hill days, hope you get some more snow (sorry those awaiting Spring)!

[Klaasloopt]

That's Attow do it indeed! You know I joined you in proclaiming the blessings of Fhada's western end, but boy, your report sure is energetic, enthusiasm well typed down. Thanks for bringing it to my attention!