Ben Lomond

Ben Lomond

The opportunity to complete a 3rd ascent of Scotland’s most southerly Munro presented itself this week and was readily grasped given some good weather, clear tops and the lingering challenge of winter conditions on high. This is a straightforward, uncomplicated Munro with a well-engineered path that climbs steadily through some de-forested woodland and over a broad grassy shoulder before zigzagging up a short sharp ramp. This puts you on the impressive summit ridge that arcs around a precipitous north-eastern corrie.

Up Loch Lomond to the Arrochar Alps

The car park at Rowardennan was surprisingly busy for a midweek morning in March and bets were soon laid on the chances of a family of 3 clad in trainers and shorts setting foot on the summit! Following the deforestation of the lower slopes, the mountain is visible for much of the early stages and 20 mins normally sees you out of the remaining trees and on to the open hillside. A great view of Loch Lomond opens out to the south and further afield, the Ochils, Central Belt and even the Pentland Hills can be seen on clear days!

Delicate Footwork on the Summit Ridge

As expected, snow and ice were still very much in evidence on the summit ridge and care was again needed to negotiate the summit ridge up to the solitary trig point. Given several days of higher temperatures and the southerly aspect of the mountain’s main route of ascent, the snow was generally soft enough to take a boot and wherever ice was encountered, it could be by-passed without having to revert to ice axe or crampons.

The Summit

The view north encompassed the familiar Arrochar Alps, the Crianlarich hills and a distant Ben Lawers away to the north-east. A young woman on the summit clad in full winter gear announced she was making good use of a month off work by working her way up the western Highlands. And with that, she cheerfully picked up her ice axe and headed off for Torridon!

The View South Across Loch Lomond

The descent was swift and many groups were passed, still heading up this popular and accessible peak which probably has more repeat ascents (amongst Glaswegians, in particular) than most other Munros. Unsurprisingly, there was no sign of the family in trainers!

On the way home, I couldn’t resist the temptation of having my photograph taken at the beginning of the West Highland Way. Not a walk that particularly appeals to this stravaiger of the Scottish mountains, but it was fun to pretend for a few minutes and to be wished good luck by a few good folk of Milngavie!

The Imposter!

Check out my future plans for similar walks on: http://www.hillways.co.uk/summer/summer.htm