Slow Thaw: Zig Zags and No. 6 Gully

Today marked the start of our March intro and advanced climbing courses. Steve was out with Michael and Chris, their aim to become competent and independent winter climbers. They kicked things off by climbing the zigzags on Gearr Aonach, taking time to look at rock anchors, moving together and abseiling; all foundation skills which will be used throughout the week.

Ken is running the advanced climbing course with Ryan. Over the years Ryan has climbed a number of classic and esoteric routes with Ken. With the very low temperatures over the past week due to come to an end, they made an ascent of No. 6 Gully on the West Face of Aonach Dubh; which when in condition, gives a great ice climb with a fantastic crux pitch. The surface of the ice was starting to show signs of the slow thaw, but the ice was still completely solid underneath. The climb should still be ok for the the next few days, as the freezing level looks to stay just below the base of the route, but with different forecasts predicting different freezing levels, a cautious approach is required.

Other West Coast Mountain Guides climbed Raeburns Easy Route and Deep Cut Chimney.