Ben Nevis the adventurous way ? (CMD Arête) with optional Acom ??
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One of the finest mountain walks in Britain links the Munros of Carn Mor Dearg and Ben Nevis, via the exposed Carn Mor Dearg (CMD) arete. The route throughout is spectacular, with breathtaking views of the Central and West Highlands, and the magnificent cliffs of Ben Nevis' north face.
It is, however, a very demanding route, one with nearly 5257 feet of ascent ? Therefore it should only be undertaken by people who know what they are getting themselves into! As a minimum you must have done some similar mountain walks before, think Striding Edge, Crib Coch, Scafell, big Scottish mountains etc.
I'll be staying at the Glen Nevis Campsite the Friday & Saturday nights ?? so by all means join me, the Glen Nevis Hostel is close by along with other accommodation. If the weather is particularly bad the event may be cancelled so camping maybe the better option so you don't lose any money. The campsite doesn't like groups bigger than 8 so best not to mention your with a group!
If we can meet at 9am outside the Glen Nevis Youth Hostel as this is closer to the start of the walk. https://www.google.com/maps/@56.7998585,-5.067316,3a,75y,247.24h,86.68t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sGn7j3Pg3dtaAg4vuC4TJJA!2e0!7i13312!8i6656 – Picture of the hostel outside
What to bring
Water: bring at least two litres in a water bottle, or better still, a hydration bladder
Medicines: if you have hay fever, diabetes, minor ailments etc.
Day Rucksack: typically 20-30 litres, they are comfortable to wear and allow you to use your arms freely
Waterproof bags: keep spare clothing, electronics and anything else dry even when your rucksack leaks by using Ziploc type food bags or, better still, outdoor activity waterproof bags
Boots: waterproof and breathable hiking boots with good ankle support. Trainers not allowed.
Gaiters: recommended for wet weather or boggy conditions
Socks: proper walking socks will keep your feet dry and help prevent blisters, and carry a spare, dry pair
Walking Poles: always optional, love them or hate them, but give them a try and decide for yourself
Layered clothing: lets you quickly adapt to changes in the weather and body temperature. Go for a base layer (vest or t-shirt) and a mid layer (a micro fleece or shirt) and in cooler weather add an outer layer (a windproof jacket or thick fleece)
Trousers: no jeans as they become heavy and cold in the rain, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry and on warm days shorts are OK
Waterproof jacket: essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry.
Gloves: Windproof, or better still, waterproof gloves are the best choice, bring a spare pair if expecting rain.
Hat or cap: stay warm in winter and shaded in summer
Sunglasses: for any sunny day, even in winter
Sun cream: can be useful even on cloudy and winter days
Snacks: bring biscuits, energy bars, gels, bananas, chocolate or dried fruit for example and put them somewhere easy to get hold of
Lunch: bring a packed lunch unless otherwise stated
Emergency equipment: the walk leader will bring any emergency equipment required for the group, but you are welcome to bring any that you have, such as additional high energy food, a survival bag, a whistle, a medical kit, a torch and something to make fire (either storm proof matches or a firelighter
Map and compass: the walk leader will have these, but if you like map reading or want to develop your skills, bring yours along
Mobile Phone: keep it in a waterproof bag for use in emergencies, and a spare battery/charger is a good idea
Food & drink
You’ll need to bring lunch with you and snacks to keep the energy up. Don't forget to eat breakfast!! :)
Make sure you have plenty of water & fluids. A flask of something hot is always good on a cold day.
Good Mountain Foods
• Chocolate of course!
• Sunflower seas
• Banana’s
• Nuts & dried fruit
• Energy bars (especially the ones with oats)
At the end of the day if people are up for it we’ll have a drink if everyone’s up for it!