This picture says it all – what an adventure!

Observatory Ridge (V,4) Ben Nevis – what a big route. I’m not sure if we took the right line or got it in primo condition all I know is that its long and pretty difficult as a snowed up rock climb. The slabs at the bottom were particularly time consuming and mega run out, we stuck to the crest most of the way and just followed our noses making for a proper adventure. We were pounded by spindrift avalanches all day and were met by a full on white out on the summit, would it ever let up!

Duncan cruising up the 1st pitch

Snowed up slabs – nasty stuff

But its all good as a second!

Duncan on the impressive corner system

Guide book firmly packed away, we just went for what looked good!

The latest thaw has taken lots of ice at mid level but higher up its still fat and blue, we simul-climbed the last 130m up Zero gully and it was bomber placements and great screws all the way. The Ben has lots of life left yet this winter!