
With an avalanche risk predicted as low and 15-25 mph winds with warm temps we went up with an open mind as too the route.
The wind never materialized and as the sun hit the face everything started to soften.
We met a couple of climbers backing off a route who told us the ice was cruddy so we decided to forget any ridges and go for number 2 gully.
As it was the last day we decided to pitch it. Protection was a bit sparse but good enough. The icy pitches were softening so we ended up using a snow bollard below the cornice and as the Icey crust was good on top I belayed off the axes.
Great last day, can't wait for next winter
Area :
Ben Nevis and Carn Mor Dearg
Ben Nevis is certainly the biggest and most famous winter climbing ground in Scotland, with something for everyone from the debutante to the most experienced and skilled. The almost alpine grandeur of the north face can, in a good winter, transform into a world where climbable snow-ice forms at almost every angle. It provides climbs suitable for any stage of the winter, from early season snowed-up rock climbs to late season ice wall specials. Also included here are the small number of winter climbing opportunities on the neighbouring Carn Mor Dearg.