Aoanch Eagach, Grim but Great

Yesterday looked promising early morning and after a bit of planning with Steve the previous night we headed down to Glencoe. We met up with Davie at the Clachaig and sorted out the logistics for the end of the day. Our aim was the Aonach Eagach ridge. What had looked like a promising forecast actually turned out to be pretty wet and warm but we headed up Am Bodach anyway. A very sweaty ascent soon had us on the summit of Meall Dearg and at the start of the ridge. I have done a number of traverses in summer but this was my first in winter.

Approaching the summit of  Meall Dearg

The snow under foot was very soft and wet which made things tricky on the first step down onto the ridge. We clipped into the tat and lowered on to the ridge.

Once on the ridge proper we moved along as quickly and freely as possible, soloing everything we felt was appropriate and using the rope when and where necessary. When using the rope on the pinnacles we moved together to keep the pace as fast as possible.

 
All day the banter and chat was great,spirits remained high even though the drizzle and clag stuck around.


I brilliant day with great company. And as we descended we got some views...