Aonach Beag and Aonach Mor

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Since the Nevis Range ski area was created on the northern slopes of Aonach Mor most people now trudge up beside the Goose tow which has always struck me as a quick but miserable way to the top, especially when the tow is in use and skiers are being effortlessly (almost) whisked up somewhat faster. When I went up these mountains the tow was not in existance, so the usual approach then was from Glen Nevis. Some people still use this route as whilst it's longer with a lot more climbing the scenery is fabulous and the route itself far more interesting.

To start with there are the glories of Glen Nevis, and I was there in May one year when the leaves were that wonderful slightly yellowy-green of spring and the spring flowers were out. The path continued through the Steall meadows, to the first ruined hut That was the easy bit done! From there it climbs steeply up towards Sgurr a'Bhuic - it is possible to include that in the route but I was scrambling up the stream bed to add enjoyment and take my mind of the aches in my legs. The weather was wonderful, hot and sunny, and the other advantage of the stream route was a ready supply of water.

Eventually the route flattened out somewhat, and isntead of scrambling up a stream I found myself trudging over a snow field. Stern measures were needed - the high-factor sun cream was applied, and I filled my sun-hat with some old snow which was wonderfully cooling! I continued through wonderful scenery, taking time to admire the views behind, to the col between Sgurr a'Buic and Stob Coire Bhealaich. At this point the ground dropped away steeply to the east, and a view suddenly opened of the Killiechonate Forest, the Grey Corries ridge and many mountains behind.

From here it was simply a matter of following the ridge over Stob Choire Bhealaich and up to Aonach Beag, and after a brief pause on to the summit of Aonach Mor. Aonach Beag (little ridge) is actually higher than Aonach Mor (big ridge), but Aonach Mor is a much longer mountain which is probably why the names are that way round. As I reached the second Munro of the day the view changed again, and I had splendid views of the cliffs on Ben Nevis, and also away to the north and west over the Great Glen. I could also see Nevis View, still safe where I had left it!

I wanted a shorter way back to the car, so followed the west edge of the Aonach Mor plateau to a point where a small cairn marked the top of a steep path down to the col between that and Carn Mor Dearg. Here was a path which took me safely through the Coire Guibhsachan back down to the ruined hut and thence back through the gorge to the car and a pub meal. This was a long but very satisfying day out.