free to be able to rate and comment on reports (as well as access 1:25000 mapping).
Laybys were all busy right along Glencoe, as we headed for the (almost) empty car park in Ballachulish. Bright and dry, not too chilly, paths are well sign posted
Looked pretty clear up ahead although the clouds did come in by the time we got up there
As we climbed the ground was quite boggy in places and eventually turned to snow and ice. Nice path through the woods on the way.
- heading up the middle, then to peaks left and right
- woodland path over stream
- ground getting softer, hill tops disappearing
The last part of ascent between the two summits was hard snow, so the ice axe came out. I was trying to follow the steps made before me but did cut a few myself when I lost sight of them - I'm booked for winter skills training in Feb, but pleased with my head start
- cut steps on way up, controlled slide on way down :)
Longer walk to the first summit, almost doubling back but at height now. Views gone, there was a colder wind (a mild breeze compared to last week though!) and light rain.
- looking round to first summit, now disappeared
Nice walk back down then up to the second summit, didn't need crampons but did have to be careful going over the narrow ridge.
Although still no views or sunshine, this summit was pleasantly still and calm
- cornice
- narrow, snowy, rocky ridge :)
- all was still - even OK to take gloves off :D
Great day out, and I never felt the affects of only having a few hours sleep before hand (had been out partying again!
)... but was glad I wasn't driving home, grateful to catch a few zeds instead