Aonach Eagach for a Beginner

Q. I would love to do this ridge walk but do not want to be silly if i am not experienced enough. I have only really climbed Ben Lomond.

Could any experienced climbers give their advice as to whether i should attempt it or to get more experience first it looks quite dangerous in the photos i have looked at.

Also could you tell me what grade of climbs I should be looking at.

Thanks very much for any advice given.

Kevin Macaskill, Renfrew

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A. Aonach Eagach is a very exposed ridge walk. It is not technically difficult but the section between Meal Dearg and Stob Coire Leith ('The Crazy Pinnacles') is particularly airy and exposed and is not for the remotely faint-hearted. The last two 'pinnacles' in this section will make even the most experienced scramblers pause for thought while they search for a route round them. Once on the ridge there are no viable escape routes.

Why not tackle some easier edge walks first to see if you like it and build up your experience.

Do the Striding Edge route up Helvellyn first (see Walk Striding Edge);

and then the Sharp Edge route up Blencathra (see Walk Blencathra or Saddleback (Hallsfell Top));

and then the Crib Goch route up Snowdon (see Walk Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa)).

Make sure you are properly equipped and pick a nice dry summer day that is not too windy.

Hope this helps

Mike (Editor)

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