by Sam Singh » Mon Apr 10, 2017 8:53 pm
Munros included on this walk: Ben Nevis
Date walked: 08/04/2017
Time taken: 5 hours
Distance: 17 km
Ascent: 1344m
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I often trek in the Himalayas. Have done Snowdonia and Scaffell Pike. Had heard much about Ben being the most difficult.
Arrived at Gen Nevis Youth Hostel on 07 Apr evening and sought advice from the management about the walk. I was told that it's challenging, would need a map (bought one), should carry enough food and water, and start as early as possible since it could take around 4 hrs one way. Saw a poster saying the climb burns 2000 calories and full breakfast at the hostel was only 600 calories.
I normally start my day with 1 ltr of warm water 30 mins before breakfast and that's what I did. Had continental breakfast and started the trek alone at 7.45 am, without any carrying bag, and with just one chocolate (Mars) and an apple in my pocket.
I walked without any halts. There was lots of snow and mist in the final stages, but I didn't need the map since with some effort the cairns were visible as path finders.
By 10.30 I was on the summit. Began my descent after approx 15 mins of photographs, and by 1 pm I was back in the hostel, sat down and had the chocolate and apple.
I only want to share about the prevailing misconception that one needs to carry lots of food and water. I saw many who did, but this only slowed there progress.
I wish to reiterate that I did this trek without having a sip of water or any food en route.
Happy walking!
- Attachments
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- Me on Ben Nevis