Friday 8 January 2016

Comb Gully

Today Karen, Rhys and I headed up the Ben to take advantage of the stunning weather.  A rare treat after the general ming of the week.  There is a surprising amount on offer, especially mixed lines, but things are very icy.

Approaching the belay before the narrowing 

We opted for Comb Gully IV,4***, which offered it's own challenges today.  After an easy approach, I was soon digging a thigh deep trench up the 1st easy pitch.  This took a bit longerto lead than normal.  Once in the narrower and steeper section of the gully things generally firmed up.  There is good steep climbing g to be had on firm snow and ok ice, with some poor snow and ice inbetween.  Very little protection of any quality between belay as a result of this.  Despite this we had a great day out and enjoyed a descent of No.4 to get down.  A great end to a challenging week.

Pulling out of the crux

Rhys pulling out of the crux



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