Scotland over Christmas

 The first trip of the season to Scotland for skiing and climbing.  We left home with the hope of knee deep powder and wall to wall ice.  The snow was a bit lacking and the ice was missing as well with that said we had a great trip.  One day climbing in Coire an t'Sneachda on Spiral Gully which was in fine condition.  We had also been told that the tracks on Drumochter pass hold the snow well so the next day we headed up to the pass and there was just about enough snow to make it worth it ( it's always worth it). Finally we ditched the skis in the sloppy conditions for our running shoes and headed out.

Tracks near Drumochter

Fi heading to the top 

The way down not knee deep powder but still great fun.

She's off

Ascent tracks visible as we skied down. 

Sunset over the loch 

Quick run up the Valley to have a look at the snow.

Making our way home for tea 

First day of Winter( Bikes away skis out )

The first sign of snow and I was off hunting for snow. Tried to get up and over Kirkstone pass but the snow had other ideas so plan B park at Thirlspot and head up to Raise from that side. Decided to leave the skis and take the blades instead. The north face was not in condition.

Top of Kirkstone where I turned round in the van 

Blades on very soft snow for the descent

The lakes ski center

The North face of Helvellyn

Paul H