Society Of Lancaster University Graduate Speleologists

We feared we might not get there, having been sent home from work on account of all the snow in Clitheroe, but as it turned out, once on the M6 we saw no more snow until Drumochter pass. Phil and Rosie had arrived the day before and mounted an attempt on Creag Meagaidh. White out and absence of map put paid to that, but the weather improved on the way down. There was snow at street level in Aviemore, and much too much for any serious walking, so on Saturday everyone went Nordic skiing. After some debate, Ken, Anne, John, and Pete headed for The Monadh Liath but when it was discovered that Pete’s boots had been left at the hut they implemented Plan B! Phil and Rosie skied the trails around Loch Morlich and Rothiemurchus, which were in excellent condition, with firm snow under ski and the trees draped in white. Eventually Pete, Anne, John and Ken arrived in much the same area. A trip up the Lairigh Ghru, through the Charlamain Gap and back to the Coire Cas road just proved that the snow was much to deep and soft outside of the forest for decent skiing. Still an epic was manufactured and Anne fell in a stream for good measure! As can be seen from the photos we struggled to remain comfortable in the ‘hut’ on Saturday night. Dave and Gill Mullin called in to share wine and conversation. On Sunday everyone headed to Newtonmore: a walking team, and yet another ski attempt on The Monadh Liath. The ski team made it up the first mountain, after lunch in a convenient bothy, but a white out and strong wind prevented further progress. A tactical retreat was made back to the valley where, predictably enough, the sun came out, to make a fine end to another great weekend in Speyside. Ken Photos: Phil and Rosie Johnstone, John Boardman.