The start of 2024 brought weekend after weekend of brilliant hillwalking weather. Instead of the usual January experience of being battered by rain, wind, snow, and hail, we were treated to consistently great conditions - so we were keen to make the most of it!
Saturday - Ben Challum
On Saturday, Mark, Britton and I set out to take on Britton’s nemesis, Ben Challum. When he first started hillwalking, this one completely beat him. However, the forecast was perfect, and he was far more experienced this time - with the right kit too.
We left home early-ish and started the walk at 10:00. Thanks to the nicely hard-packed snow, we made quick progress with our spikes on. We even practiced some ice axe arrests before reaching the summit. The whole walk took us just under four and a half hours.
Mark and Britton approaching the summit.
It would have been a good day for skiing!
Mark and Britton at the top.
Looking at the other Munro top.
Of course we had to get an ice axe photo!
Sunday - Lochearnhead Corbetts
The next day we were out again - our boots still dry from the great conditions the day before. This time we headed to Lochearnhead with Ross, Caitlin and Sohaib. The route was slightly bigger, taking in two Corbetts, and the conditions were still excellent, making for a very enjoyable day.
There was a lack of winter kit for some of the team, which made for a few “interesting” moments, especially on the way up the second summit.
Team crossing the river on the slippy rocks.
Cracking view from the top of Corbett One.
Sohaib, Caitlin and Ross approaching Corbett Two.
Trig point marking the summit.
A very cold team photo!
Overall, it was a fantastic weekend of winter walking - a rare occurrence in January. Unfortunately, it didn’t last, and we were back to business as usual the following weekend!