BEN CRUACHAN GROUP EAST
From B Eunaich to B a' Chochuill (r). Th Cruachan complex (l). Photo tms.nickbramhall.org
4.9 miles 1148 metres
Start Thursday 08.08
Beinn Eunaich 09.38
Beinn a' Chochuill 10.07
Finish 10.23
Squares: green - start, yellow - changeover. Circles summits: green - this leg, purple: to do. Map Colin Matheson
Time: Estimated 2.00 Actual 2.15
Rob writes:
Another swap with Tony as we felt I'd be slower on the rougher stuff of the main Cruachan ridge. I'll do that at an enjoyable leisurely pace another time. Held up by stomach troubles before the very long haul up into the cloud – a real drag of a climb that never seemed to end but at least there were no navigational problems.
I had hoped for some views across to the main Cruachan group but cloud only cleared briefly as I descended to the col and there was nothing to be seen. The thought that this was my last run was keeping me going reasonably well but the steep descent to the col where I was to meet Tony was worrying me. First, however, came my last summit, Beinn a' Chochuill, an easy approach along a ridge tapering gently to the summit.
I did take it fairly steadily on the descent which was slippery, nothing special, but after my fall I still had no confidence. I could see Tony below me by his flag, looking a bit bizarre beneath an umbrella. He limped off up the hill at a fair speed and I walked very slowly back down the track to the mothership. It was a pleasure to walk slowly, and felt all the better as my last leg was over and we're nearly finished. From here on in aching limbs can rest and instead of nervous tension a deep satisfaction can take over.
Peaks done 269 time taken 12 days 7 hours peaks to go 8
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