Today I attempted the strenuous hike up the South Gleshiel Ridge containing seven Munros spreading over 30 km and requiring scrambling. I must admit that it was the hardest hike I have ever done in my mountain hiking journey. It took us 13 long hours of hiking... one foot after another.
We started off quite easily on the path gaining up height quickly to the first summit of Creag a'Mhaim The Rock of A Large Rounded Hill.
After the first summit, we headed off straight to the next one. The mist lifted and visibility was very good which makes the navigation easier and offers stunning views.
We reached the second summit of Druim Shionnach The Ridge of The Fox very quickly as we were still full of energy.
There was a doggy with us also very excited to hike.
We set off to see the next target.
We nearly there...
The third and the highest summit of Aonach Air Chrith The Trembling Ridge Hill.
It's time for lunch. We are all getting hungry now. I am drinking too much water and as we are walking on the ridge there is nowhere to refill my camel pack. There are some doggy looking lochens with stagnant water but I am not taking chances. I know the 3 liters won't be enough so I need to start rationing my supply.
The route is becoming increasingly steeper and requires some scrambling. It's hard to believe that I used to be scared of heights before.
The legs are starting to get a wee bit tired now as the ridge goes on...
The next summit of Maol Chinn-Dearg The Bold Red Head is reached next.
A little bit tired we head off to the next mountain Sgurr a Doire Leathain.
I have less than a liter of water left and need to make it to the next one with just a few sips. The summit of Sgurr an Lochain The Peak of A Little Lochen is finally here.
I am very thirsty and some of the walking members are starting to struggle now with their knees or other old injuries. We know that the last Munro is the furthest away and it will be an endurance test for body and mind.
Finally, we are there at the last summit of the day at Creag nan Damh Rhe Crag of The Stag. We are so happy to achieve it.
None of us have any water left and even the doggy doesn't want to go walkies any more. Now we have a long steep scrambling slog decent dragging over 7 kilometers.
The stream at the bottom of the hill with waterfalls was just teasing us. I am not taking Bear Grills advice to drink my own pee...;).
Finally, we got a drink the most amazing taste ever.
Goodbye Mountains see you next time.
Thank you for reading.