Beinn a'Ghlò (Perthshire)
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Spring is here and the days are getting longer, so time to get out of hibernation, dust off these boots and join us for a full-on day on the hills, tackling this fine massif of three Munros.
Beinn a'Ghlò (Gaelic for 'Hill of the Veil') is in fact not just one mountain, but the collective name for a group of peaks lying to the north east of the A9, near Blair Atholl. If weather conditions are favourable, we plan to climb all three of its Munros - Carn nan Gabhar (1129m), Braigh Coire Chruinn-bhlagain (1070m) and Carn Liath (975m) in a clockwise circular route of around 14 miles (22 km). A map of the proposed route is shown on the Walk Highlands website.
You should have a reasonable level of fitness before contemplating this walk and bear in mind that although we're into spring, we may still encounter significant patches of snow on the ridges and summits, so please ensure you come prepared for these conditions. It is a full day entailing an reasonably early start and a possible late finish, but we can round the day off with a bar meal in Blair Atholl or Pitlochry before heading home.
The walk is easily accessible by car, about 1.5-2 hours' drive from Glasgow or Edinburgh. Although there is no public transport to Blair Atholl available early on a Sunday morning, there may be lifts available - if you need or can offer a lift please check the attendee list and try and maximise car sharing where practical.
What to bring
Even in the early spring, winter conditions may still prevail at higher levels. Make sure you have plenty of layers, including spares in your rucksack. Waterproofs essential, bring gloves, hat, gaiters, hot drink, food.
Boots: Hiking boots are arguably the most essential piece of kit when hiking just about anywhere. Walker’s should make sure that their boots are both waterproof and breathable, and provide good ankle support. Boots should also be in good condition.
Socks: Walking socks are often overshadowed by those new to hiking, with many novices failing to invest in proper socks. Good walking socks are essential in regards to keeping the feet dry, and in turn stopping the development of blisters. Sports socks and other socks not designed for walking will often become waterlogged, or damaged which will in turn blister feet.
Gators: Gators attach to the bottom of walking boots and extend to just under the knee. They provide waterproofing for the bottom half of the leg, and are essential in keeping the feet dry.
Walking Trousers: Walking trousers should be of a windproof design and made of a rip stop material, that will stand up to walking through ferns and undergrowth. They should also ideally be water resistant, or at least not gain weight, and lose their insulation properties when wet. Jeans are therefore to be avoided, as they are heavy when wet and provide no protection from the elements.
Waterproof Trousers: Waterproof trousers are essential in keeping the legs dry, as water resistant trousers will not keep out any significant rainfall. Walker’s should look for waterproof trousers that are breathable, in order to avoid being soaked with sweat.
Base Layer: A breathable base layer should be chosen in order to let sweat escape from the body. This should ideally consist of a breathable synthetic, specially designed fabric, though a cotton T-Shirt is sufficient.
Mid Layer: A Mid Layer goes on top of the base layer and should consist of a 100 weight micro fleece, or a rugby typed thick shirt. The layering system is important as it allows walkers to quickly adapt to changes in the weather as well as body temperature.
Outer Layer: The outer layer should consist of a windproof jacket or a thick fleece. This is the final layer and walkers should ensure that this layer provides ample warmth.
Waterproof Jacket: A good waterproof jacket is one of the most important pieces of kit you will require when hiking. Walkers should look for a jacket that is both waterproof and breathable in order for them to be protected from sweat. Materials such as Gore-tex are often the best choices.
Hat: As most heat is lost through the head a good hat is essential. The best hats are those of a fleece design, with wool also being acceptable.
Gloves: Gloves are essential in the colder months as walkers will require the usage of their fingers for various activities such as map reading. Windproof or better still waterproof gloves are the best choice.
Rucksack: A good Rucksack that is comfortable to wear is essential, and required to carry your lunch and additional clothing. In the event of wet weather a dry bag is recommended, with equipment being placed in the water proof bag inside the rucksack.
Mobile Phone: A mobile phone should also be brought and kept in a waterproof bag for use in emergencies.
Food & drink
You should bring a packed lunch,plenty of water and plenty of spare food and drinks for a full day on the hills. A flask of tea or coffee might be a good plan as well.