Creag Meagaidh
6 people attending
3 places left
Creag Meagaidh (pronounced Craig Meggy) is a reclusive giant of a mountain with the best view being that of the eastern cliffs over Coire Ardair, these being popular with winter climbers for their many and varied routes. Not that we are taking any rope though....
Our route starts at the car park adjacent to the A86 and follows a well made path through some regenerating native birchwoods and climbs gently to Lochan a' Choire, where we can admire the massive rock face of the mountain ahead of us before heading up to The Window. From here it's a short climb onto the plateau of the mountain and a walk to the summit. The plan if the weather permits is to return to The Window and then make for the ridge that runs to the north of the path we walked into the mountain. Along this wide ridge is two more munros - Carn Liath and Stob Poite Coire Ardair - before returning to the car park.
This event is one that is celebrating the broadcast 30 years ago of 'The Munro Show'. This STV programme was broadcast in 1991/92 with Muriel Gray at its helm, which was a series that was involved in bringing mountaineering and munro bagging into the mainstream. Creag Meagaidh is one of a handful of the 22 mountains covered that can be found on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bNweB6NsC7A - alternatively you can ask the leader to borrow his DVD!
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- All are required to practice social distancing – staying 2m (not 1m) apart at all times, including the lunch stop.
- Unfortunately, there won’t be any planned pub / café stops en route or at the end, and please don’t share sweets or snacks with others – we’re sorry!
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Photos were taken by AMD.
What to bring
Check the weather forecast the night before - we are going up onto a high and large plateau which is exposed to any weather in the area as even on a fine summers day the top of the mountain can be cold. The list below is mandatory for coming on this walk.
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 must bring a packed lunch, along with plenty of fluids and snacks for the whole day. You should consider that it is planned as a long day - so extra food must be considered. Suggestions of things to bring include energy snacks or a flask with a hot drink or soup.