Moruisg and Sgurr nan Ceannaichan; Geal-Charn Mor.
Moruisg and Sgurr nan Ceannaichan
Six of us met in the car park beside the north western flanks of Moruisg and, even though we could see a dusting of snow on the summit, it was chillier than we expected. It didn't take long to reach the lower slopes though, and the relentless gradient soon warmed us up. We were walking in clear autumn air and you could see for miles. We reached the top in time to see the view disappear in clag as a strong and very cold wind brought the clouds in. We hunkered behind the first cairn to don warmer layers and waterproofs and set off towards the summit looking rather like we were on an arctic expedition. It was bitterly cold though and we needed all those layers. We reached the diminutive summit cairn, stopped for a photo and quickly carried on along the ridge, descending back out of the cloud to a sheltered gully where we enjoyed a welcome break. We caught glimpses of Sgurr nan Ceannaichan, looming large behind the moving cloud. We quickly attained the summit, the path being a bit rockier and more interesting than the ascent to Moruisg. It wasn't any less wet though. After another summit photo and a quick looks at maps and GPS we headed back down to the bealach. Once out of the cloud we were treated to superb, clear and sunny views and we had another coffee stop to enjoy the vista. The trek back to the cars was uneventful, but wet. Very wet. All in all, a very pleasant day out and our first snow (albeit ½cm deep) of the season.
Taking part: Richard, Brian, Matt, Wendell, Mairi, Nell and Trevor the dog.
Words: Nell
Photos: Nell
Geal-Charn Mor
A party of five tackled Geal-Charn Mor (824m) to the west of Lynwilg, near Aviemore. The weather was better than expected, and the day was chiefly notable for all the work being done near the track leading north to the valley of the River Dulnain. A large number of expensive big yellow machines were strewn all over the hillside, to what purpose we didn’t know. An internet search later suggested that the machinery was to do with peatland restoration, the estate having been taken over recently by an environmentally conscious landowner.
The way up the hill was quiet, but coming down we encountered many walkers making the most of the good conditions – it is near Aviemore, after all. Peter, Marion and Margaret chose to go back the same way, while Paul and Ewen checked out the alternative (rather wet) path down to Ballinluig and thence the Kinrara Distillery, where the car was parked. The day ended in the traditional – sociable – manner at the coffee shop in Tiso’s at Aviemore.
Taking part: Peter, Marion, Margaret, Paul and Ewen.
Words: Ewen
Photo: Paul
