Tuesday 22 February 2011

Winter Wonderland

So we headed upto Scotland for a week last week, the weather forecast wasn't great but i knew we would at least get something done.
On the way up we thought we would stop and get a nice walk in, the weather wasn't great but nevertheless it was a really good day out, good start to what would turn out to be a belter of a week.
As the week unfolded the avalanche forecast was getting worse with most Northern aspect slopes on a Cat 4 avalanche risk. Another couple of days walking, with a quick route in on the East Ridge of Beinn a'Chaorainn although its only a grade II we still roped up just for the practice.


Coiling the rope on the top of a perfect Meggy


Thursday came and the forecast was set out to be a stunner. So we thought we would make the most out of the day by heading upto Creag Meagaidh, wow what a trek in 2 hour walk in for one climb, thats a new record for me.
We checked out the guidebook the eveing before and all had a few routes in mind, but one we all fancied was The Pumpkin grade V, 4 but a **** so as far as classics go this was a good one!
Walking upto the base of the climb i had a few butterflies, got a slight bit of nerves just before.
But when i started climbing the butterlfies went and the climbing was definately the best i have ever experienced, it was amazing. The weather was perfect, at one point i was even belaying without gloves on!!!
First ever grade V and i can definately say i have caught the Scotland and winter bug now, so psyched to get on some more routes and head back up for another trip, already been planning for a weekend away soon.


Me on the second pitch of Pumpkin