Climbing Ben Nevis in March

Q. Could anyone advise me if crampons will be necessary to climb Ben Nevis in March?

Myself and three friends are going to do the three peaks 24H challenge for Great Ormond's Street Hospital. I'm trying to work out what kit I am going to need as I have only ever done Snowden [sic] and there was no need for crampons and/or ice axe.

Any and all advice welcomed

Thanks all

Peter Buchanan, London

NB. An identical question was asked by Bennath Evea from Newcastle

A. We were up Ben Nevis last April and the top few hundred feet were snowclad. We got away without using crampons that time, but learning from my mistakes, and the slipping and sliding involved, I would say take your crampons to make your life a lot easier and it is always better safe than sorry. We did not realise just how much snow there was at the time, until we climbed it again in June and found that the cairn at the top that we walked straight on to in April was now about seven or eight foot above us! We found Ben Nevis the most strenuous of the three by far, but also the most rewarding. And if you are gifted with a clear day and a view from the summit...Wonderful!

Michael Love, Morecambe

A. Hi Peter Like the Editor says better to be prepared. Ive done most of the biggies in the UK and whilst you might get away with it on Snowdon and Scafell, Ben Nevis is a different proposition. Myself and a group of friends did the Ben in february and I would say the snow line started about 3500ft. It was very deep towards the summit and made the going extremely difficult. A word of caution, once at the summit DO NOT walk near the edges as snow can build up to give you a false sense of security regarding solid ground. Too many mishaps have occured this way. Hope this is helpful and good luck. Gaz T

Gary Thomas, Rossendale

A. I would have thought it highly likely that there will be snow on the summit of Ben Nevis in March and would suggest every member of your party is fully equipped and fully prepared for winter conditions.

In any event, it is always better to have and not need - than to need and not have.

Hope this helps

Mike (Editor)

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