Dorsal Arete

It’s been quite inclement recently. Lashing rain and howling wind seem to be rattling the windows all too often. Thankfully some cold northerly winds have brought about some long anticipated change.

Stob Coire nan Lochan with its winter coat on

With bigger and more ambitious plans for the weekend quashed by a last minute lack of partner, I headed over to Glen Coe on my own in search of salvation. A dabble on Coire an Lochain’s Dorsal Arete turned out to be just the thing. A bit of a traderoute by winter standards, it must easily be as popular as some of the classic ridges on the Buchaille, but perhaps more reliable due to the crags higher altitude? Either way this II,3 was perfect for an early season solo adventure.

The route has one short sharp section which makes you stop and think. The fabled crux arête, which rises alarming steeply out the broad buttress has a good deal of exposure as well as atmosphere (not the least helped by the falling snow and high winds..). 

Looking down the steep arete pitch

“The mountains are calling and I must go.” (John Muir)