Intro to roped scrambling on Curved Ridge

Ken: I was out with Chris today, and we had a great day on Cruved Ridge on Buachaille Etive Mor. Chris has done a number of easier scrambles in the past, was was keen to try something a bit more challenging, and to get an understanding of how the rope can be used effectively and efficiently whilst scrambling. Curved Ridge lends itself really well to looking a variety of belays and different styles of moving whilst roped up, so we explored a fair few of them, whilst enjoying the dry rock and views over Rannoch Wall.

We also looked at protecting a traverse by cutting across the exposed top of Rannoch Wall and over to Crowberry Tower. Nothing like practising these techniques in real situations! From the summit of Crowberry Tower, an abseil saw us continuing on our way up to the summit of Stob Dearg.

A couple of other teams on Curved Ridge, but overall, pretty quiet. Looked like quite stormy weather approaching Glencoe from the east, so we chose not to hang around.

The start of June also saw Steve finishing up his full-time association with West Coast Mountain Guides. He will continue to lead and instruct for us on a freelance basis, but for now, a huge thanks to him for his hard work and input since coming on-board. All the best mate!

If you fancy learning (how to use) the ropes whilst scrambling or a guided adventure get in touch…

www.Westcoast-MountainGuides.co.uk/mountain-guide-scotland/