In the interest of mixing things up a bit, we decided not to take the ordinary and relatively gentle sloping route to the top. Instead we just started hiking up the side of the mountain, knowing that we'd eventually intercept a less-travelled route along the opposite end of the munro (mountain). Our route allowed us to climb three progressively higher peaks as we ascended.
The shore of Loch Lomond with our destination in the background - Ben Lomond, Scotland's most southern munro, then draped by a bit of cloud cover.
The obvious disadvantage to not following the established trail route is that certain obstacles, like fences and sheer-sided ravines with nearly vertical 200-foot drops, blocked our path and forced us to make certain adjustments to our hiking rhythm. Here's John scaling one of the numerous fences that came between us and our mountain.
This ravine slowed us down a bit as well. At this spot, the quickest way to get down to the streambed below was by sliding down a downed (and thankfully branchless) tree trunk like a firepole.
Before long, we had a clear path to the top. North view over Loch Lomond, with intermediate peak Ptarmigan on the right.
Stones spread out along boggy parts of the trail allowed us to keep our feet at least partially dry.
Almost to the top. You might not be able to tell from the small picture, but on a larger version you can see people slowly making their way toward the summit along the ridge, looking like ants climbing up the back of a dog.
Approaching the summit - southward view over Loch Lomond. The wind was ferocious.
Sucking air as I reach the top. The land and snow visible behind my shoulders is at least a thousand feet lower.
Northwesterly view from the summit toward the "Arrochar Alps" of the Central Highlands.
1 comment:
Ben Lomond today- Mt Everest tomorrow! Great going! Super! Better you than me... I would have died along the way and y'all would have had to bury me... Ode to Gaynor would have followed... any takers? Love you, Trev!
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