Crianlarich weekend - 14-16 March 2025
A super high-pressure forecast inspired everyone to take to the hills this weekend. Several members were able to take in hills on Friday on route to Inverardren.
On Saturday a hard frost preceded a clear day, with a chill wind. It was one of those Spring days when opinions were mixed on whether to carry winter gear with snow visible on the high tops and the ground frozen early on.
Lisa’s walk on Ben More illustrates the point: ‘The ground conditions were mostly frozen turf, but patches of ice on the steep track were hazardous at times. Above 650m dry snow patches threatened further slip risk and I was glad to be wearing 4 season boots, (unlike many other folk on the hill that day). Above 1050m the ground was brick hard and the snow between 4 to 8 inches deep. I decided to use my lightweight axe for security although no-one else that I met was carrying any winter gear at all! After 3 hours of brutally steep ascent, I reached the summit cairn and the nearby trig point. The slope south to the col was sunny and snow free! After a quick snack and adding an extra warm layer, I descended to the col and down to the valley, returning to Benmore Farm in another 3 hours. An excellent day out!’
Elsewhere Arthur headed to Luss beside Loch Lomond for three Graham’s from Glen Luss - Beinn Eich, Cruach an t-Sìthein and Doune Hill. Sadly a serious accident closed the main road, leading several cars to take a 50 mile diversion via Inverary to return to the hut. Mel and Jeannie climbed Beinn Chuirn, Jill Beinn nan Imirean, Peter Beinn Dorich and Michael and Ewen explored Glen Ogle on their bicycles.
Fiona and Mike traversed the Glen Falloch hills, navigating a careful line from Beinn a Chabhair, Beinn a’ Chroin, Beinn Tualeachain & Cruach Ardrain to the Rod and Reel in Crianlarich. At that point progress was impeded by Rugby Union and ales, leading to a slower pace on the final kilometre to the hut.
Lindsay, Jan, and Tim unwisely decided that Martin’s route from Glen Falloch to Twistin’ Hill, An Caisteal, Beinn a’Chroin, and Beinn Chabhair looked attractive (new Munros to three of the group). As it turned out the 18km steep route tested fitness and layering in sweaty conditions. Creating a circuit took the group away from the lowland crowds on these accessible hills. From the summits the Firth of Forth could be seen to the SE (Grangemouth!), Arran and Jura to the SW, and hills as far as Glencoe to the North - spectacular. Luckily the traffic accident did not impede a return along an empty A82 after “a marvellous day”.
On Sunday Michael and Ewen tested the cycle-ability of the West Highland Way in Glen Falloch. Full suspension is reportedly recommended! Arthur, Fiona and Mike took in the Blackmount Marilyns of Meall beag and Glas bheinn. Jill climbed Beinn Odhar too.
Mel, Jeannie, Martin and Lindsay went along to Loch Awe to climb Beinn a’ Bhuiridh. Once past the baby Heilan’ Coos a steep rough ascent led up from a quarry to an undulating ridge. Sore limbs from the previous day slowed the ascent, but the views made up for that. The Inner Hebrides were again stunning, with the Beinn Cruachan massif forming a barrier to the North. Five Ptarmigan were sighted on the descent.
Although up to three hours from Inverness, the weather made this a memorable weekend for all participants.
Taking part: Mel, Lisa, Lindsay, Jill, Fiona, Jan; Mike, Michael, Arthur, Ewen, Peter, Tim, Martin and prospective member Jeannie.
Words: Lisa, Lindsay, Arthur, Martin
Photos: Arthur, Martin, Mel