Thin but in

Jamie and I had a day off today and wanted top make something of what little is 'in' on Ben Nevis. The rime line was much higher today but I've been watching the ice rebuild at the base of North Gully and we headed in deciding there was enough for an ascent. It was thin but complete giving some good placements. Mike had the same idea and followed us up it with his team. It should improve with a few more days freeze but a heavy thaw or a heavy hand would damage it badly so don't set your hopes on it! The left hand finish was icey at the top so Jamie got a good pitch too. We chatted to Max as we descended No.4 on more good neve and there were many teams on No.2 (and one on Gargoyle Wall? A bit black for my tastes).
We readily need that snow now.

Jamie emerging from the thinly iced P1

The long easy P2

Looking across at Tower Ridge

Looking across at and down P3

Jamie contemplating P4

Getting involved

Getting gear

Getting higher

Going left

Last step

P4, the LH finish of North Gully today

Looking down the upper groove of the LH finish

Descending No.4 Gully

Looking back across at North Gully

Mike's team delicately tackling P1

A slender line of frozen water and snow

Nearly at a comfy belay

Dry rock abounds!

Jan 4th??

Climbers in No.2 Gully

A lovely day