Ledge Route
Posted by Max Hunter on 03rd January, 2015
Today I was out with Bryn on Ben Nevis. The plan was to enjoy a grade II, and also do as much learning as possible to help him and Tess get out on the winter hills enjoying some mountaineering safely. We chose Ledge Route, because it is varied and fun. We postponed the day from Thursday and Friday, due to the high winds and temperatures – but today was much colder, more settled and a little better than forecast. We met many people on the busy hill. Simon Coker and his friends from the Torridon Mountain Rescue team were also on Ledge Route. Ken went off to enjoy Number 2 gully, and we spend most of our time watching several teams deal with conditions on Castle Ridge – many of them eventually abseiled off.
We had a leisurely time up the route, looking at different belay methods and rope techniques for efficiently moving on ridges and winter climbs. It was good to see so many people out enjoying the good weather and remaining good climbing conditions.
Good conditions on Ben Nevis
Great visibility on Ledge Route
Many climbers on the hill
The Jenga Blocks
Bryn trying 2 axes for the day
Deep snow at the start of the route
Spectacular scenery
Bryn on an empty Ledge Route (?)
Bryn on a tricky downclimb