East Ridges of Beinn a’Chaorainn & Stob Ban

Dave A was out with George again today. With some challenging weather and avalanche conditions, they headed to the sheltered East Ridge of Beinn a’Chaorainn. There’s a lot more snow lying next to the road along Glen Spean than in and around Fort William. They noted signs of avalanches in the corries next to the ridge, probably from yesterday and last night’s rain/thaw. They found it hard work to get through the saturated snow pack but George did really well, though the legs may be feeling it now!

Meanwhile on another east ridge, this time on the North Top of Stob Ban, Dave B was with his introductory winter climbing team or Gregor and Richard. They found the approach to be quite tricky, with the streams in spate and again, plenty of saturated snow to wade through. The ridge itself has suffered a bit with the current thaw, although fortunately, it can be climbed in almost any condition, and still give an enjoyable and productive climb. They had the opportunity to look at both pitched climbing lower down and moving together higher up.

A return to cooler conditions tomorrow, which will stay with us up until the weekend at least.