Location: Ben Nevis
Duration: 1 day
Client to Instructor Ratio: 4:1 Max
This elegant, sweeping ridge that stretches over Ben Nevis is well-deserved in its popularity and ranks as one of the premier easy scrambles in the UK.
Before Your Course
Your EverydayClimbing mountain guide will be in touch one to two days before your course commences. This pre-course contact serves to introduce your guide, confirm meeting details, and provide insight into the expected weather conditions. Our guides are readily available to address any queries you may have, ensuring you're well-prepared for your upcoming adventure.
On the Day
Discover the United Kingdom's highest mountain via a journey along its classic arete, accompanied by exceptional views of Ben Nevis's five major ridges.
This is a moderate scrambling day, but with a substantial approach. We begin with the classic climbers' ascent through the woods alongside the Allt a Mhuillinn. While rock climbers bound for the North Face continue along the main path, we venture East, embarking on a rugged path that leads to the summits of Carn Beag Dearg, Carn Dearg Meadhonach, and, ultimately, Carn Mor Dearg. The latter marking the beginning of our ridge adventure.
The route is fairly committing, but not excessively exposed. With your qualified and experienced instructor guiding you, you'll have the opportunity to tackle this fantastic route head-on, sticking to the crest and moving with complete security, guided to each hand and foot hold. The North-East face of Ben Nevis is a constant companion during the journey, and you'll have clear views of its five historic mountaineering ridges stretching from the summit to the corrie floor. As we reach the far end of the ridge, a brief ascent allows us to bypass a ruined observatory and reach the summit of Ben Nevis, The roof of Scotland.
Upon completing our exploration of the mountain, we initially join the tourists and start our descent along the pony path. However, we diverge from this path at the half-way lochan, choosing an oblique descent down a broad buttress before eventually rejoining our approach route.
To fully enjoy this experience, you'll need a good level of fitness and a strong dose of determination for both the approach and return. But for those who possess these qualities, this route promises an exciting and unforgettable adventure for those seeking to conquer Ben Nevis.
Not quite what you're seeking? No problem! We specialise in organising climbing, scrambling, or mountaineering guides for any route in the Scottish Highlands or islands. From the dramatic sea-stacks to the legendary Skye Cuillin, we've got your adventure covered. Feel free to drop us a line with your specific requirements, and we'll promptly respond to your inquiry.
Dates
This course is available year-round and can be scheduled on any day that suits your plans.
Feel free to reach out with your specific requirements or contact us using the form below, and we'll promptly respond to your inquiry.
Prices
Our prices are comprehensive and cover the following:
One person - £260
Two people - £310 (£155 per person)
Three people - £360 (£120 per person)
Four people - £400 (£100 per person)
This is a substantial day on Ben Nevis and a strong level of fitness is essential for both the approach and return. Yet, for those with the energy and determination, few mountain experiences in the UK are more rewarding.
The CMD Arete serves as an outstanding introduction for individuals new to scrambling. It is generally attainable for fit hillwalkers with a head for heights, regardless of age or experience. While previous scrambling experience isn't necessary, having some background in hillwalking and being in good physical shape is essential to make the most of this adventure.
Required
• 25-35l backpack
• Mountain walking boots
• Walking poles
• Water bottle or hot drink flask (1 litre)
• lunch (around 1000cals.)
• Head torch + spare batteries
• Thick socks
• Waterproof jacket and trousers
• Thin fleece or light insulated jacket
• Thick fleece or mid insulated jacket
• Warm hat
• Gloves
• Hiking trousers
• Synthetic/merino base layers
• Personal medication
• Sun lotion & midge repellent/head net
• Waterproof stuff sacks for everything
Optional
• OS map
• Waterproof map case
• Compass (Silva type 4 recommended)
• Gaiters
Provided
• Harness
• Climbing helmet
• Belay device and karabiner
• Emergency shelter (Orange bag)
To guarantee your comfort and security throughout our activities, we strongly advise all participants to come prepared with the complete equipment listed. While our activities may proceed even if participants do not have the entire kit list, please be aware that EverydayClimbing and our instructors retain the right to modify the itinerary or conclude the activity early should the absence of essential equipment pose an elevated risk to the group, exceeding acceptable safety standards.
As part of our unwavering commitment to eliminating barriers to outdoor adventures, we offer a selection of equipment available for use by anyone, with no questions asked. Your safety and enjoyment are our top priorities. Just drop us a line to let us know what you require.