Friday 4 April 2008

Smith's Route, Ben Nevis





Today Jamie B, Amy, Joe and I all headed up the Ben. Amy and Joe did Good Friday Climb (III***) on Indicator Wall. Jamie and I carried on up at ended up at the base of Smith's Route (V,5***) on Gardyloo Buttress. Jamie led the 1st and third pitch and I led the crux and exited through the cornice. The climb was very exciting, however nothing really seemed secure. The ice was very soft and sugary which resulted in some interesting foot and axe placements, and the screws did not fill me with confidence either! We topped out in the sun, we had great views all around. We descended down number 4 gully, which has lots of soft snow. (we abseiled a rope length). I got some nasty hot aches on the crux and got a little pumped, so I'm going for a pint now!