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Penultimate munro. A late decision was taken to drive over to Skye to scout around the pinnacle and maybe take in Sgurr Mhic Choinnich. The forecast suggested better weather in the evening.
I set off up Coire na Banachdich up passed the waterfall into the corrie. Visibility deteriorated here but it was sheltered and it felt mild. I continued onwards and upwards along various paths and small cairns. I scrambled a few bits and then reached a section which rose steeply to a ridge. I noticed a sheer cliff on one side and sensed I was near top of Sgurr Dearg. I walked along to where I found I was level with the west face of the pinnacle with the iconic bolster stone. It looked daunting in the shrouded visibility.
It was very windy and the clouds were dense and wet, in fact I would say atrocious was a better word. The slabby terrain was treacherous. I noticed an orange storm shelter at the leeward side. I hoped that there were others planning for a climb later. Two lads appeared from the shelter and had a chat for a wee while. They confirmed that 4 others had summited in these conditions since they had been there and had all used gear. Their mates were on the ridge with a guide and just shouted "rope below" as I decided to move on.
I tip toed down the slabs before I fell onto my ****. I slid down a bit more then found the wee path to the starting area. At this point I had the option to walk on, but I decided to take a closer look. I switched on the gopro and with a fully loaded pack and no gear on I stepped onto the wet rock. The wee video tells the story better than words...
I had stepped onto the rock merely to have a recce (to take some shots for a workmate who also wished to climb it) and found myself carrying on beyond the point of no return. (after the first shimmy) The rock and the exposure was tricky but the effects of the wind and the rain increased the risk. I was conscious that the conditions were not the best for unprotected climbing and sensed the danger was present at all times. But I still chose to carry on. Reckon the strong magnet of adventure or stupidity kept me going.
Did I enjoy the experience /achievement ?…in all honesty… YES…absolutely, especially when I reached the ground. Would I have enjoyed it as much if it was a dry clear evening in perfectly safe conditions, aye reckon so.
Hopefully I can enjoy the final munro of this round with the peace of mind that the rope work is done for now.
I would like to go back to the Cuillins and tackle the entire ridge in one crossing with good company. It’s on the bucket list. I will not sell the gear on e bay just yet.