There but for the grace
On Saturday, four days ago, I crossed Jock’s Road from Glen Doll to Glen Callater in perhaps the most severe winter conditions I’ve yet encountered; total white-out at times, reduced to crawling on hands and knees at one point to make any forward progress. It was exciting, exhilarating - and a little chastening. A number of people have died on this route, and it’s easy to see how. Inadequate clothing, perhaps lacking fitness or navigational skills - you wouldn’t stand a chance. I was a happy chap when I got to the bothy at Loch Callater. Two days later, walking into the Cairngorm from Linn of Dee, I met the MRT searching for a guy who’s now been missing out of Corrour for four nights (see link). Up on the plateau in that weather for four days with no shelter? That doesn’t sound like a happy ending.
Familiarity doesn’t breed contempt in my case; rather than becoming blase about these hills I find I’m becoming much more cautious and respectful. I’m currently pitched up in trees in the eastern Cairngorm, waiting on forecast gales after walking through rain for five hours. There’s a signal coming in, so I’m posting this one out of sequence. Stay careful.
1 month ago • 0 notes