The Assynt. Day 2 - Quinag

[colgregg]

Day two took us to Quinag for a day which promised much and certainly didnt let us down. Setting off in bright sunshine from the car park at the summit of the pass which carries the A894 North to Kylesku we headed up the firm (in places) track uphill towards the first summit of the day, Spidean Coinich. We hit the mist as we gained height to reach a minor top, dropping down a short way before the final climb to its summit. We were now following an exhilarating ridge over several summits towards Sail Ghorm at it's Northern edge. By now the mist had all but disappeared and we were treat to spectacular panoramic views as we negotiated the ridge. Eventually we came to the Eastern spur which leads to the highest summit of Quinag, Sail Garbh which has a trig point. Decisions must be made here as to whether to include sail Ghorm in the round or head straight to the highest point. To me, and probably most others it was a "no brainer" so we continued North over a minor summit (can be bypassed on way back) and down to a col which signals the ascent of Sail Ghorm. Here you have the perfect setting for the high drama photograph. A much used path heads a short distance to the cliff edge to a narrow ledge jutting out high above the valley. Those of a nervous disposition will probably shun the photo opportunity but for most its too good to miss. With pics taken we headed up to the summit of Sail Ghorm which at 766m is only 23m below the main summit. A few years ago some one said to my brother that it wasn't worth the effort. Believe me it is well worth the effort. Retracing our steps we soon found ourselves heading up to the main top, Sail Gharbh at 809m. Looking back before reaching the broad summit there is a chance to see the whole of the walk just completed. Once again the summit, which has a trig point, provides an excellent panorama. All that was left to do was to head back down the partly renovated path to join the good track from just below Bealach a Cornaich for an easy moorland crossing back to the car park. Thanks must go to the John Muir Trust who have spent time renovating the track and aiding a dryshod return to the car park.

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Lochan Bealach Cornaich from Spidean Coinich

Westerly view from the ridge

Bealach a Chornaich and the next summit on the ridge.

Sail Garbh from SailGhorm

Yours truly posing on the exposed rock which juts out over the massive western edge of the mountain.

The Southern section of the ridge. The walk followed the slope on the left and onto the highest point Spidean Coinich. The cone shape top is very narrow with a steep descent to the North.

Looking North from the summit of Sail Gharbh

Sail Ghorm

[kevsbald]

Loving pic 171. Cracking.

[colgregg]

Loving pic 171. Cracking.

It is a dramatic setting. The drop is quite phenominal but the situation is safe enough in dry / low wind conditions. You have at least a metre to 4ft width to play with. Just tell yourself it's like walking down the street.