Maol Chean-dearg and Cnap Chaochan Aitinn

Maol Chean-dearg

We had a good turn out for this walk - five members and five potential members. Introductions were made and after a short chat we headed north into the Torridon Hills. The weather was overcast but mild with the threat of rain as we walked in. Arriving at the bothy, curiosity got the best of us and we had to have a look inside. Comments were made on how clean and how well the bothy was kept. Some of the inquisitive ones ventured upstairs only to find some folk were still sleeping. With that note we vacated the premises and were on our way.  

Brian mentioned the odd smell in the air when he realised that the heather on the lower east slope of Meall nan Ceapairean had been burnt. The smoky odour lingered in the air for some distance. Arriving at the junction “marked by a rocky cairn” where we were to start ascending, we took a short break. 

The footpath was clearly well trodden with obvious signs of erosion as we gained height. Arriving at the bealach we ate and donned some layers for the push to the summit. As we approached the boulder strewn slope at about 750 metre in elevation we met a descending walker who had warned us of multiple paths and high winds. After a short greeting and updated information we pushed on. 

As height was gained on the vague patchy route, the weather took over and the hill fog thickened with a light cool breeze and the rain was now fully on us. Keeping a tight group so as not to lose anyone in the mist the members staggered and stumbled their way up the boulder field. 

Arriving at the summit we settled in the sheltered north side of the cairn for more food. Someone was saying “where are the high winds that were mentioned by the descending walker”? 

With bellies filled and watered the cool air reminded us not to stick around for too long. Donning our packs we headed out on a bearing ‘cos we could not see where we came from. Entering the boulder field again and keeping a tight group we descended the uneven faint path down the south east slope back to the bealach. With a short break and peeling off some layers, the team headed at pace down to the low level path junction in the glen. A short regroup and the team headed for the car park. Another great day on the hills.

Taking part: Wendel, Andrew, Emma, May, Brian and prospective members Claire, Amanda, Dave, Craig and Ron. Words: Wendel. Photos: May.