After much ale and little sleep the alarm signalled the
start of the day.
Today Tristan and I raced up the Allt a’Mhuilinn on possibly
one of the busiest weekends of the year to see what we could get done.
Whilst kitting-up in the base of Observatory gully, some
bloke came skudding down towards us. This is no place for neglectful footwork,
especially when there is plenty rocko bricko neve to contend with. After a 200m
slide, the gentleman stopped and thankfully was well enough to gingerly walk
down the rest of the gully and off the mountain with only a few minor injuries.
After wiping our bottoms, we continued upwards to inspect
which routes were free as despite our early start, a spot of obligatory first
aid put us at the back of the queue. Despite the crowds there was plenty to go at.
Observatory Buttress looked as prime as I’ve ever seen it and provided a super alpine
day out.
Early morning cloud soon lifted and the views were
astonishing!! No matter how many times I go up the Ben, every time is a great
one. I always feel utterly stoked and in a sense privileged to be born and
serve my apprenticeship in the Highlands… no wonder when the surroundings are
as such:
Teams were strung-out on Tower ridge and the winding trail
up its spine looked as broad as Fort Bill high street… though I wouldn't stagger down that road!!
Descent was made via No. 4 and the rest of the weekend was spent
enjoying the Fort William Mountain Festival http://www.mountainfestival.co.uk/ which was
especially ace this year.
from Will
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