Ben Nevis Early May

Q. Hi, A group of us are planning to walk up Ben Nevis "tourist route" on 9 May [2009]. By looking at forecasts we are aware that there has been more snow fall on Ben Nevis over the past few days.

We are all competent hill walkers but not in winter conditions with the use of crampons and ice axes. Would you consider it necessary to have these pieces if kit at this time of the year or should the snow on the higher levels be relatively soft?

Thanks

Hazel Thwaite, Hawes

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A. If you are going to climb any high mountain and suspect there will be snow up there then everyone in your party must be dressed for winter with their own crampons, ice-axe and competent winter skills.

Further more, if you are climbing Ben Nevis when there is a chance of snow then even the most competent hill walker should make sure they have our route description - Walking Map h100 Ben Nevis from Achintee with them since it includes detailed instructions on how to regain the path from the summit and avoid the notorious and extremely dangerous Five Finger Gully when the footpath is obliterated by snow.

Remember it is always better to have and not need - than to need and not have.

Hope this helps . . .

Mike (Editor)

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