As we reach the top of the path, we stand facing Cwm Clyd, we had been thinking of A then B then Banana Gully but were already later than we thought, so we opt for Banana then possibly A or B Gullies if we have time. Llyn Clyd is frozen over but not enough for a crossing. Looking down on this lake from Y Garn I always think it’s got the shape of a hand in a crimp move. Anyway…. Helmets on, poons and sticks ready, we head up the gentle ramp from the back of the lake. Daymo gets to use his new axe yeahhhhh! The snow is not too bad, just on the turn; it takes our weight with a steady foot sink of about 4 to 6 inches. It’s a lovely long Grade 1 which even so, warrants care and attention. Remember to tuck you gloves into your jacket if you take them off to take pic’s. We found some gully swag last year that had wriggled free of someone’s hands and slid all the way down. Met up with a couple of guys from Bristol on the way up, ‘Mayaculpa’ from UKC if you’re reading, it was good to meet you both. There’s a nice narrowing about half way, with hard packed snow can add a bit of spice, but today it’s a steady pop to the top. Not much of a cornice today but I can hear the wind ripping over the summit. We re-wrap ourselves ready for the blast. Considering the time we push back down the ridge in the hope of getting another route in. On the way down we meet Sarah Ridgway & Bella, check out Sarah’s Blog http://sarzmountainrun.blogspot.co.uk/ Time for a photo opportunity I think, and Andy’s in his element. We get back down to Llyn Clyd and the weathers on a turn for the worse, Waddayathink then chaps another gully or pub….Pubs wins, it was a good decision. We settle for a few beers at the Tynni. Must say I quite liked being introduced to Penderyn Welsh Whisky http://www.welsh-whisky.co.uk/ Just a shame I cant remember which one it was I had, with 3 in the range I’ll have to buy all 3 bolletetesisis, hic
Area :
North Wales Winter Climbs
