Today was the day to head up to the Ben and try some of the harder mixed climbs that have become so popular in the last few years.
I’ve been reading the great book “History of Ben Nevis” which is full of photos and accounts of first ascents on the Ben. Darth Vader stands out as a modern classic, and it’s an amazing line high up on the mountain.
There seems to be some confusion as to the grade of the route, some say VII, 7, others VII, 8. It felt harder than central grooves from a couple of days ago, but perhaps it wasn’t in such good condition, with some snow covering the gear.
I was climbing with Rich again today, who was well up for the challenge of seconding his first grade 7. It was a bit overcast and there had been some fresh snow, and the cliffs where good and white.
There wasn’t much opportunity for photo’s, but some of the teams across the gulley on the opposite cliff took some photo’s so I should have some more soon.
A murky picture of Darth Vader, the chimney/crack line.
Rich leading the approach pitch
Just past the "3m wall" first tricky pitch
Rich seconding pitch 2, just before the belay cave.
The final pitch on Darth.
