DURC: The Meets Book

DURC Annual Slideshow 2013

2013-09-01T23:59:00.000+01:00

The annual DURC slideshow, featuring highlights from 2012-2013.

Isle of Mull, 29th - 31st March 2013

2013-03-31T23:59:00.000+01:00

The Isle of Mull ultimately turned out to be the location of this year's 'Mystery Meet'. Although after numerous leaks, the word 'mystery' is used in the loosest of terms...

The A' Chioch route up Ben More, Mull (James Simpkins)

Walking

Leaving Dundee on the Friday evening, the vehicles were almost overflowing with gear. We arrived in Oban in good time for the last ferry across to Craignure. From there, it was around an hour's drive to Fidden Farm campsite where we set up our tent village. It wasn't until morning that we could really appreciate the views from the site.

Fidden Farm campsite (Brett Gregory)

The view on Saturday morning (James Simpkins)

Most people took the opportunity to bag the only Munro and highest peak within the Inner Hebrides (excluding Skye): Ben More. It was mostly approached from Dhiseig on the B8035 opposite Loch na Keal.

Loch na Keal from Dhiseig (BG)

The walk up Ben More from this route was relatively straightforward and largely uninspiring, taking around 3.5 hours. But upon reaching the summit, we were treated to some really outstanding views - the photos of which do not do it justice.

Ascending Ben More (JS)

The summit ridge (BG)

Summit view (BG)

Looking over A' Chioch (BG)

Sunday was a lazy day with some of the group visiting Iona and Tobermory. One thing is always guaranteed when visiting these tourist-y places - you are always relieved of the burden of carrying around a heavy wallet...

Tobermory (BG)

It was still during daylight that we got the ferry back to Oban, so we could see some of the prominent west coast hills.

Mountains on the mainland (BG)

There was a rush to deck when the Captain announced that a sperm whale was visible in Oban bay. We all got a brief glimpse but nobody managed a photo. Over the next few days, it was featured on BBC news. It eventually swam to deeper waters.

Crossing to Oban (JS)

Climbing at Erraid

After a rather chilly night's sleep, we awoke to be greeted by glorious sunshine, a good sign for a day of climbing on Erraid!

On the approach (Neil Tan)

We arrived at the crags and were astonished to see another Uni club were already there! The good banter from everyone more than made up for less solitude than was expected. Eager to start climbing we broke up into a few teams and were let loose upon the crags.

(NT)

Owen topping out (NT)

A good day was had by all, taking in a variety of routes from S – HVS. Highlights being Fagan (HVS 5a) by Anna, Tim getting the ‘Gary Latter cover shot’ on One Dead Puffin (HVS 5a), Calum getting spanked by Stealth (HVS 5b) and numerous people being spanked by Oliver (VS 4c) besides one clean ascent!

After collecting some firewood and enjoying the last few hours of Costa del Erraid, we made a quick dash back over to Mull before the tide left us on Erraid overnight!

David with salvage (NT)

Crossing the sands (NT)

Walking report: Brett Gregory. Climbing: Calum McBain. Photos: Brett Gregory (BG), James Simpkins (JS), Neil Tan (NT).

Newtonmore, 23rd March 2013

2013-03-23T23:59:00.000+00:00

We set off around 9:30am from Newtonmore with the aim of bagging A' Chailleach (Monadh Liath). A fairly easy walk ensued which didn't feature the conditions warned of by MWIS (initially).

High winds on the summit of A' Chailleach (Brett Gregory)

We came across an interesting bothy / tin hut where we stopped for a lunch break. The wall was covered with writing - some with 1920s dates on.

The tin stalkers' hut (BG)

Inside the bothy (BG)

Some of the writing on the wall (BG)

As with all premises of this type, there a few basic rules to be aware of...

"It is not permitted for beggars, vagrants, itinerant musicians, women of doubtful reputation or anyone without visible means of support to enter these premises or loiter in the vicinity thereof. Any such person or persons found to be in contravention of this order will be prosecuted with the full rigour of the law.

In addition, all legitimate users of this bothy must ensure that the stove is out, the door is closed and that all sheep shite is swept from the floor. Remember, "if you see it, you own it".

In the event of a fire, alert all other residents, evacuate the building and gather at the assembly point (that big boulder five yards from the door).

These are no smoking premises. Anyone observing a breach of this resolution should report the incident immediately to the relevant authority. No alcoholic beverages must be consumed on the premises. Singing, dancing and inappropriate relationships between the sexes are also prohibited.

A copy of the New Testament is provided for your enlightenment and may be found on the top right hand corner of the shelf, that you may read the word of the Lord. Though if you're depending on him for help, you're probably in more trouble than you think. By order M.B.A"

The rules (BG)

We set off towards the summit - 1 or 2 layers down. We were soon scrambling to re-apply these when the wind came. As forecast, the gusts were around 80mph. It was a struggle to stand near the summit.

Heading up A' Chailleach (Michael Graenitz)

Worsening conditions (MG)

Summit cairn of A' Chailleach (BG)

View from the summit (BG)

After a short time at the cairn, we made our way down - walking into the wind (but bum-sliding where possible). A nice day out - will be remembered for lunch in the curious hut and the crazy winds on approach to the summit.

Monadh Liath range from near Newtonmore (MG)

Report: Brett Gregory. Photos: Brett Gregory (BG), Michael Graenitz (MG)

Glen Brittle Memorial Hut, Isle of Skye, 15th - 17th March 2013

2013-03-17T23:59:00.000+00:00

This was DURC's second trip of 2013 to the Isle of Skye, once again staying at the Glen Brittle Memorial Hut. If anything the weather was even better this time round and we were treated to some amazing views - see the video below!

Views from Sgurr Dearg (David Barratt)

You can watch it directly on YouTube here.

Trip report

While Ali and David took on Sgurr Dearg, a large group of us (about 8-10) went off to attempt/look at Sgurr Dubh More and Sgurr Nan Eag. The weather was gorgeous and the majority of the walk until we got into the snowy corrie was done in t-shirts.

On the approach (Alison Craig)

The views were incredible and the higher we got the more magnificent it got, looking south east-at all the islands. After some scrambing into the corrie we had a pleasant slushy snow walk up to the ridge which involved more (rather more scary) scrambling. A few members of the group went to attempt Sgurr Dubh More, but after assessing the conditions decided against it. Then four of the more braver members of the group went and did Sgurr nan Eag while the rest of us dropped back down to the corrie.

The Black Cuillin (AC)

Report, photos: Alison Craig. Video: David Barratt

Mountain Mind Quiz, 13th March 2013

2013-03-13T23:59:00.000+00:00

The annual Mountain Mind Quiz is a chance for clubs to pit their knowledge against each other in competition for a trophy, with all proceeds going to a good cause: Tayside Mountain Rescue. This year it was organised by Ancrum Mountaineering Club, and we sent a team along to the Queen's Hotel with no real expectations other than a bit of fun.

The Mountain Mind Quiz boot (James Simpkins)

Suffice it to say, we were woefully unprepared for how tough the quiz would be, enjoyable though it was, and we were duly and justly rewarded with the "Well, thanks for coming guys" booby prize, the Mountain Mind boot.

So, yeah: a bit of preparation might be in order before next year!

Congratulations to Forfar and District Hillwalking Club who were this year's winners, after fighting it out with Breadalbane Rock and Ice in the final.

Glen Lyon, 10th March 2013

2013-03-10T23:59:00.001+00:00

We woke to a Dundee covered in snow and anticipated being at least ankle deep in powdery snow up in the mountains of Glen Lyon. Four of us had decided to attempt a few of the four Munros to the east of the glen, leaving the rest of the group to go and do Stuchd an Lochain.

Rime on Stuchd an Lochain (Guy Templeton)

After negotiating a very icy path we eventually began to ascend, however we found we were slipping all over the place on the icy compacted snow, so on went the crampons. The conditions made it easy walking and soon enough we were at the top of a very windy Carn Gorm.

Carn Gorm and Meall Garbh (Alison Craig)
Click the image to view full-size

A celebratory cup of tea was had and we set off again heading to Meall Garbh and to seek refuge from the wind. About halfway between the two Munros we stopped for a quick lunch in the group shelter then carried on. We walked past the anti–climatic summit of Meall Garbh thinking it was just a pile of metal poles placed there to be taken away. So it wasn't until looking at the map a short time later that we realised.

Ice-covered fence post near Meall Garbh (AC)

Between Meall Garbh and the next Munro, Carn Mairg, we decided to split up with two heading to do the third Munro and the two of us heading back to the bottom.

We came across big accumulations of snow that had turned icy so we had a bit of a muck around pretending to climb the small ice walls. We got back to the road about half an hour earlier than the agreed time to be picked up, but thanks to an underestimation and a mix up with crampons we ended up walking for an hour down the road until we gave up and waited in a passing place in the group shelter to get picked up.

With everyone reunited and rather cold, we stopped off at the Fortingall Hotel for some hot chocolates and a look at the Yew Tree, before heading back home.

Glen Lyon (AC)
Click the image to view full-size

Trip photos for Carn Gorm, Meall Garbh and Stuchd an Lochain

Click here to open the album for this trip. If your device supports it, you will also see a slideshow below.

Report: Alison Craig; Photos: Alison Craig (AC) and Guy Templeton (GT)

Blair Atholl, 3rd March 2013

2013-03-03T23:59:00.001+00:00

Our destination this week was meant to be Arrochar, but just as with the previous week's trip, we had to adapt to circumstances and go elsewhere. On this occasion it was due to being given the keys to a minibus that was nowhere to be found, and by the time an alternative had been provided it was too late to go further afield, so a return trip to Blair Atholl it was.

A cold lunch on Carn Liath (Paul Crawford)

Most people went for the forest walk, with four heading up the nearby Munro of Carn Liath. The descending clouds and the desire to get back for the rest of the walkers resulted in a decision to head down after reaching the summit.

Trip photos

Click here to view the trip's album. If your device supports it, you will also see a slideshow below.

All photos: Paul Crawford (PC)

Pub quiz, 27th Feb 2013

2013-02-27T23:59:00.000+00:00

Alison and Kit organised a pub quiz for us in our usual meeting place, Clarks on Lindsay Street. Questions ranged over sport, history, geography, film, science and more and included a test of our ability to recognise land masses, famous faces, and a visual reference to a particularly notorious incident...

KerPlunk: the ultimate tie-breaker (James Simpkins)

The quiz was won by the confidently-named team "The Committee Didn't Fix This" who, out of the goodness of their hearts, donated their winnings towards buying everyone a shot.

Alison and Kit marking answers

Awaiting the next round

And the tension of the KerPlunk tie-breaker to determine 2nd and 3rd place was the perfect excuse for a stiff drink! Ultimately, second place went to Legs Akimbo, and third to Scrambled Eggheads.

So tense

A good time was had by all.

Photos: James Simpkins

Glen Brittle Memorial Hut, Isle of Skye, 22nd - 24th Feb 2013

2013-02-24T23:59:00.000+00:00

So this meet we were originally supposed to head to Ling Hut near Torridon, Wester Ross. However, due to a gas leak we were unable to go there, but luckily the Glen Brittle Memorial Hut on Skye was free, so that became our destination! Headed off Friday night as usual and arrived at the hut pretty much exactly at midnight. After unpacking, we all sat and planned our routes for the next day. Most of us decided on Sgùrr Alasdair, the tallest mountain in the Black Cuillin range and on Skye, made up of gabbro and basalt rock.

View across Coire Lagan from the top of the Great Stone Chute (Brett Gregory)

Anastasiya, Euan and Stephen decided to try Bruach na Frìthe, so they set off earlier than the rest of us, with Remco and Dorinne dropping them off.

As there were nine of us on our walk, we decided we were very reminiscent of the Fellowship of the Ring, I think we decided Tim was Frodo as he possessed the One Bag of Haribo Rings.

The Fellowship in action! (Tim Hunter)

We followed the path beside a gorge with views of a beautiful waterfall (Eas Mor):

Ed at "Rivendell" as we named it (Ali Stangoe)

We were starting to see signs of snow here, the ground was slowly looking more frosty, and very soon we were scrambling over snowy and icy rocks to get into the corrie.

Still fairly foggy weather conditions at this point! (James Simpkins)

We stopped for a quick lunch after this, as we found a fairly flat point to open up the group shelter. The fellowship very nearly broke here, as we had a long, intense argument about whether the group shelter (or Wendy house) was blue or purple. I think the photograph here shows conclusive proof that Tim was very wrong, and the shelter is obviously blue:

Brett and Rachael sitting by the "Purple Wendy House" as it will forever be known (JS)

We had given up hope of any decent weather. At least it wasn't raining, but it was very chilly and foggy the whole time. We carried on walking into the corrie, and came across a very short icy slope. So like any sensible mountaineer, we decided to use it as a slide to reach the bottom, which was very fun! The next slope we faced didn't look quite so fun: a very steep, very imposing, very high slope leading to the Great Stone Chute. So it was crampons on, and up we went...

Pretty scary looking! (JS)

Not-so-happy climbers. Except for Ali, who is apparently insane? (BG)

The sun eventually arrived! (TH)

Then sun came out while we were ascending the slope and provided us all with brilliant photo opportunities. The entire corrie was sparkling in the sun and just looked stunning.

Looking across Coire Lagan towards the Inaccessible Pinnacle (JS)

About two-thirds of the way up, many people decided they were not comfortable on the terrain we were on, and so decided to turn back. A few of us decided that we could still continue on though, so climbed up until we reached a flattish area just before the start of the steepest section of the Great Stone Chute. There, Brett and Ed decided they wanted to continue to the summit of Sgùrr Alasdair, and Rachael, Alison and I decided to down-climb from there. Slight issue on the way down when Rachael's crampon came off, but crisis was averted easily enough! Crampons back firmly on, we continued our slow (it felt never-ending) down-climb. The sun was nice, but it did get very warm - being in the snow and wanting to take off layers is quite a strange sensation!

View from near the top of Sgùrr Alasdair (BG)

Sgùrr Alasdair summit ridge (BG)

Eventually we reached the bottom and began our walk back to the hut. The sun had actually melted the majority of all the snow, leaving us with a very different walk back to what we had done that morning. It was good: left us with a far easier walk for our aching legs! We stayed and watched the sunset for a while, before walking back along the path home.

Sunset from Coire Lagan (JS)

Stunning view of the moon rising over the Cuillin (TH)

We got home, and after a delicious meal of chicken fajitas, we played pass the parcel to celebrate Rachael's birthday! After this we played a fairly hilarious game of sardines, which Euan pretty much won by hiding in the coal bunker. This ended up with us all looking like extras from Oliver!:

It's a shame the water wasn't really working that weekend... (photo by Anastasiya Adashkevich)

Whilst we were enjoying our shenanigans at the hut, Ed and Brett made a very fast descent of the Great Stone Chute, then began making their way slowly back home, reaching the hut at about 11pm. Luckily we'd saved them some fajitas, although we did have to fight Stephen off.

Calum, Owen, Anna and Tim had also now arrived, the latter grabbing just a couple of hours sleep before heading off to start an early-morning traverse of the Cuillin ridge. The next day, most people decided to head to the beach for a day in the sun:

Beach at the head of Loch Brittle (TH)

Alison in the sea (TH)

Alison's boots (AC)

Paddling by the Cuillin (TH)

Ana, Brett, Ed and I opted to stay in and be vaguely productive, cleaning and coursework wise, before giving into the beautiful weather outside. We wanted to walk to the forest but either forgot or decided to ignore that we needed to walk all the way to the beach to reach the bridge. Instead after a few unsuccessful attempts to cross the river (mostly by me, because it doesn't take much to get me to jump in a river), we explored the gorse bushes at the riverside and spent our afternoon posing for photos and climbing trees.

Ali and Ana (AA)

Brett (AA)

Ed (AA)

James decided to go check out a waterfall he had found on the map, so he could take some nice photos:

Icicles hanging around a stream near River Brittle (JS)

Waterfall near where Allt a' Choire Ghreadaidh meets the River Brittle (JS)

After everyone returned to the hut, we began the tidy-up. During which, Ed and I invented the rather fantastic game of "Bottleballoon" (in which I came out victorious. Commiserations, Ed. Good game.)

Bottleballoon in the Glen Brittle Memorial Hut: Ed vs. Ali (JS)

A tense game (JS)

All in all, it was an absolutely brilliant trip - a great substitute for the Torridon trip for sure! Everyone enjoyed themselves, and I'm sure everyone will be hoping to return soon (in fact, two of us did, but that's a different blog post to come.)

The cosy fireplace at the GBMH. Greatly appreciated by all! (JS)

The Glen Brittle Memorial Hut, Isle of Skye (JS)

Report: Ali Stangoe, Photos: Anastasiya Adashkevich (AA), Alison Craig (AC), Brett Gregory (BG), Tim Hunter (TH), James Simpkins (JS), Ali Stangoe (AS)

Bridge of Orchy, 17th Feb 2013

2013-02-17T23:59:00.001+00:00

After weeks of powerful winds and often little or no visibility it was great to finally get a decent forecast, suggesting a break in the weather leading to a period of alpine conditions. We were a bit disappointed then to drive into Glen Orchy and find it enveloped in a cold pocket of low cloud. Nonetheless, as the day drew on it turned out we were - eventually - in for a treat that would also bode well for next week's much-anticipated trip, to Ling Hut in Torridon...

The sun shining through cloud above Beinn Dorain (James Simpkins)

We had a number of different routes in mind, but all needed to reach the bealach at the top of Coire an Dothaidh before parting company. So we all trudged up together from the Bridge of Orchy hotel car park.

Looking up Coire an Dothaidh (Alison Craig)

The bogs lower down managed to claim one boot, but it wasn't long before we were able to look back on a decent view of the glen.

View back to Glen Orchy (JS)

Heading up Coire an Dothaidh (AC)

Taking a breather (JS)

Last steep section before the bealach (AC)

At the bealach the wind picked up and it started to feel pretty arctic. So we broke out a couple of shelters while making plans. Cloud still obscured the tops of Beinn an Dothaidh and Beinn Dorain.

Sheltering at the bealach, Loch Lyon in the distance (JS)

Start of the slabby ascent to the Beinn Dorain ridge (JS)

North side of Beinn an Dothaidh (JS)

Most of us were content to do one or both of the two adjacent Munros, while Tereza and Stano planned for a more strenuous walk heading over Beinn an Dothaidh to the adjoining ridge for Beinn Achaladair and Beinn a' Chreachain.

Ascending Beinn Dorain, we were swiftly enveloped in persistent mist and the snow and ice underfoot meant donning crampons. The wind died away to nothing and there was an eerie stillness about the ridge, punctuated only by the crunch of our footsteps. At times it seemed fairly narrow but, other than taking care to bypass the false summit with its large cairn, there were no difficulties on the way to the top.

Mist on Beinn Dorain (JS)

At the true summit of Beinn Dorain (JS)

The summit cairn of Beinn Dorain (JS)

Heading down, there was a increasing sense of 'blueness' just beyond the mist, and as we descended the cloud started to part: at first for a few seconds at a time, then for longer, until the cloud cover was breaking up in earnest.

Cloud breaking above Coire an Dothaidh (JS)

Brocken spectre (JS)

Cloud rolling over Beinn an Dothaidh (JS)

The sun shining through cloud above Beinn Dorain (JS)

Then, almost within minutes, we had clear skies, warm sun and some pretty stunning views. There seemed nothing to do but loiter at the bealach for a while, taking photos and enjoying the atmosphere.

Suddenly-clear sky (JS)

Alpine conditions back at the bealach (JS)

View back up Coire an Dothaidh (JS)

Looking over Loch Tulla (JS)

After a leisurely descent, we headed to the Bridge of Orchy hotel and enjoyed a pint or two - and a pleasant sunset - while waiting for the rest to return. All in all it was a fine trip, with no drama, Munros summitted and a definite sense that the weather had finally turned.

Sunset at Bridge of Orchy (AC)

So clear: the moon over Glen Orchy (JS)

Report: James Simpkins; Photos: Alison Craig (AC), James Simpkins (JS)

Glenmore, 10th Feb 2013

2013-02-10T15:47:00.000+00:00

Off we went to Glenmore, 15 walkers and 9 intending to do some skiing or snowboarding. High winds seemed to be a given on trips at this point, and we anticipated it, but the reality was certainly worse than the forecast and it was fairly unpleasant even at the lower Cairn Gorm car park. Early on, the plans still seemed realistic though. It was, needless to say, not a great day for photography.

About as good as it got: something like -16 in the 40-50mph+ winds (Paul Crawford)

Photos follow the trip write-up below (click to skip).

After briefly enlivening things with a high-speed chase in pursuit of a flying jacket, Ali and Ed set off with their sights on Braeriach. With the skiers sorting out their passes, the rest of the walkers began trudging up Cairn Gorm, although it quickly became clear that paths were notional at best, and in the dire visibility keeping out the way of skiers/snowboarders was the main early concern.

As the day drew on, conditions were rapidly deteriorating and, for the Cairn Gorm walkers, reaching the Ptarmigan restaurant was a pleasant relief. A leisurely lunch in the warm followed, and a couple of people's interest in pushing on to the summit quickly waned after another glance outside.

The stations were being shut, and staff were advising the public to leave. Some fortuitous faffing about at the restaurant about which way to descend resulted in the walkers being offered a free ride down on the funicular. This unexpected offer was gratefully accepted! Although the descent would've been easy enough it really was vile up there.

The skiers came down at around the same time. With all back except Ali and Ed it was decided to head into Aviemore in search of a phone signal, a drink and ultimately a fish supper. Soon in contact with the two it was clear that all was well, they'd experienced similar conditions and within sight of their goal of Braeriach had sensibly decided to turn back. Julia and Tim went off to collect them.

Before too long everyone was back together, safe and sound and having made the most of what was a dismal day's weather. It was sad to hear later of a tragedy elsewhere in the Cairngorms and, although most of us had been in the 'safe' environment of the touristy side of Cairn Gorm, I think we all came away from this trip - and the recent winter skills meet - with a renewed appreciation of how bad things can get.

Trip photos

Click here to open the trip's album. If your device supports it, you will also see a slideshow below.

Photos: Paul Crawford (PC), James Simpkins (JS); Report: JS

Braedownie Hut, Glen Clova, 1st - 3rd Feb 2013

2013-02-03T23:59:00.001+00:00

A small party set off for the weekend to Glen Clova, staying in the Carn Dearg Mountaineering Club's hut, Braedownie. The weather was good but windy, and we had the added excitement of an exploding oven to spice things up.

View from near Mayar, Glen Clova (Paul Crawford)

We stopped on the way in Kirriemuir for fish suppers. This was essentially an educational visit for Irene in the joys of deep frying in Scotland. It was dark and snowing on arrival at the hut, and it took a while to finally get some heat due to a lack of matches and some wood that was surprisingly reluctant to burn.

Fire! The Braedownie hut stove

The kitchen

You might notice the oven on top of the microwave, remember that for later.

Saturday morning we set off to Glen Doll woods where our walk would start.

Glen Doll forest

Exiting the forest towards the Shank of Drumfollow we started ascending the hill on what, presumably, was the summer path. The snow was troublesome at times. Specifically, the times you end up knee deep on one leg.

Looking back to the start of the ascent

We stopped for lunch, and at this point put on crampons as a couple we met had already turned back as their micro-spike things were just not enough.

As we got near the top, it was steeper and quite icy.

Looking towards the top of Shank of Drumfollow

This gives you some idea of the slope

At the top of the bealach there were some cornices (not terribly clear in this photo).

Top of the Shank of Drumfollow

In the (not too far) distance, Mayar (928m)

Nearing the summit of Mayar, the weather was great except for the wind which was getting up to 40-50mph by now.

Ice on an old fence post

There were some excellent views from the summit. To take a group photo I had driven my ice-axe in to the ground and used the hand-strap to stop my camera & tripod going for a flight in the 50mph-ish winds!

View from the top of Mayar

Summit view

Group photo on Mayar using the joys of a self-timer

After a very brief photo session, we headed back to the hut. The sun was almost down by the time we reached the forest edge.

Getting dark, Glen Doll forest

The wine selection for the evening

Starting with the soup we had the white wine, a Gewürztraminer from the Alsace in France.
Then we had the reds with the spaghetti bolognese. First red was from the Puglia region of Italy, and seemed a spiritual match for the meal.
Second red was a pleasant Chilean wine, though we only made it through half of that bottle before deciding it was bed time.

While cooking the remaining garlic bread on Sunday morning, there was a pop and the floor was showered with glass.

It had seemed fine and managed 6 minutes out of the timer's 12 for cooking the bread

On our way back on Sunday we stopped at Glen Clova hotel for some coffees.

Last port of call: the Glen Clova Hotel. They also had a wood-burning stove

Report and all photos: Paul Crawford

Winter Skills Meet, Glenshee, 27th Jan 2013

2013-01-27T23:59:00.000+00:00

The annual DURC Winter Skills Meet is an opportunity for members to practise winter basics, including fitting and walking in crampons, the use of an ice axe, avalanche awareness and navigation. As always, club members don't act as guides or leaders, but the more experienced folk on the trip aim to pass on some of what they know in an informal way.

This year DURC headed once more to Glenshee. Deep, powdery snow, strong winds and often little or no visibility were the order of the day, despite some occasional views early on, and conditions deteriorated sharply in the afternoon. Most of us ended up pushing on to the top of Glas Maol before beating a retreat.

The morning afforded some fine views over the Glenshee hills (James Simpkins)

You can click here to open an album of photos from the Winter Skills meet. If your device supports it, you will also see a slideshow below.

Photo credits (see captions): Paul Crawford (PC), Tim Hunter (TH), James Simpkins (JS), Guy Templeton (GT)

Glen Feshie, 8th Dec 2012

2012-12-08T23:59:00.000+00:00

This was the last official trip of 2012 for the club, to the impressive wild glen east of Kingussie. Due to exams and folk departing for the Christmas holiday there were just seven signed up, and as a group it was decided to head up Carn Ban Mor, on the way to the Munro Sgor Gaoith.

Low cloud was the theme of the day (Paul Crawford)

Starting the trip at the car park (PC)

The road to Auchlean farm (PC)

Almost out of the woods (PC)

Looking back at the path to Carn Ban Mor (PC)

At the summit of Carn Ban Mor (1052m) visibility was reduced to around 10-20m. While the summit's above the 3000 feet threshold, it's not officially a Munro as another peak along the ridge has that title (Sgor Gaoith, at 1118m). The air was not THAT cold, probably around +1C, but the 40mph or so wind speed made it feel like -10C!

At the summit of Carn Ban Mor (PC)

At this point the group turned back and, stopping for lunch on the way back down, an 8-person survival "tent" made the experience much nicer...

...as did some mince pies (PC)

Inside the survival shelter, Glen Feshie (PC)

Halfway down and a glimmer of sunshine to cheer us (PC)

Descending the mountain, uniform grey cloud not lifting much (PC)

Back through the woods (PC)

Back down, and finally a pub was found in Kingussie that served hot chocolate and a beer that was not chilled horse-pee...

First of the drinks arrive, and all seems well once more! (PC)

Report, photos: Paul Crawford

Strawberry Cottage, Glen Affric, 30th Nov - 2nd Dec 2012

2012-12-02T23:59:00.001+00:00

Strawberry Cottage in Glen Affric was the destination for the last weekend meet of 2012. There was some snowfall and the weather was fine if cold, and the views were stunning. But not everything went quite to plan...

Morning view from near Strawberry Cottage (Paul Crawford)

Strawberry Cottage (PC)

Strawberry Cottage is a great hut, spacious and well-furnished, and the fire was going not long after arrival.

Inside the cottage (PC)

The upstairs sleeping area (PC)

On Saturday morning two groups were formed, one heading out with ambitions to bag A'Chralaig and Mullach Fraoch-Choire, of which more later.

The other set off south along the road to avoid a deer-stalking area. Snow was falling, and further along the track was closed for repairs.

Looking along the road (PC)

After climbing through the glen into the afternoon it became obvious that it was going to be too late to attempt a Munro - another hour or more away - and still get back in time to organise food before it got dark.

Group photo at around 480m: Jack, Nicola, Tim, Eleanor, Joanne, Melanie and Paul (PC)

The sun was already going down around 3pm, and darkness was falling by the time the group were back at the hut.

The sun going down over Glen Affric (PC)

Getting dark (PC)

The fire was lit, and Paul made lentil soup, and there was a main course to follow. But - disconcertingly - where were the other group?

Awaiting the main course, Merlot at the ready (PC)

Alison takes up the story.

'The Lost Party'

So after a late Friday night, we woke up relatively late on Saturday morning to find a fresh layer of snow. A group of 5 of us set off at around 10am with the intention of walking A'Chralaig and Mullach Fraoch-Choire. After the 6 or so kilometers walk through the glen we eventually started the tough ascent in deepening snow to the first summit.

The Glen (AC)

Having reached A'Chralaig rather late in the afternoon and with snow forecast to start in a few hours we decided to push on to try and get the walk finished in time for the bolognese waiting for us back at the cottage to have not gotten cold!

Soon the sun went down and the head torches came out! Then, as forecasted, the snow started and the walk began to get more serious, head down and just keep walking. However, the ridge towards Mullach Fraoch-Choire started getting very rocky with cliffs -- you didnt want to look down! After negotiating a couple of these tricky and probably rather dangerous parts we decided it would be stupid to go on, and so decided to turn back intending on dropping back down into the glen we'd walked up and heading back to the cottage.

BUT! Somewhere on our retreat we lost the footsteps we had made on the way up, possibly because the snow and wind had blown them away. Unknown to us we had overshot and ended up out on a ledge that - despite looking at the map - we didn't know existed. So when we dropped down to the left none of us questioned it because left meant we were going the correct way! We were even more convinced we were right when we hit the river, thinking "Great! We just have to follow the river and we'll be back in no time!"

Meanwhile, enjoying a nice warm fire... The Strawberry Cottage stove (PC)

All was well until the little river we were following joined the main river: this river was braiding and was a lot wider. It was at this point we decided to get the compass out... We were following a river running south, the opposite direction to the cottage. After consulting the map we realised we were in An Caorainn Mor, the glen parallel to the one we thought we were in! Still baffled as to how we had managed to get there we noticed Cluanie Inn on a road running at the end of the Glen and decided to head there! Eventually, after trudging through bog and river for what felt like hours we reached the road. We then began frantically phoning to tell everyone that we were all safe, just in the wrong place and to try and get the message to the 7 who were back at the cottage with no phone signal and lots of bolognese!

Indeed - the spaghetti bolognese: Quorn at the back, beef at the front (PC)

We finally reached the Inn and searched for an entrance, but all the lights were off and it looked empty! However, we eventually found a door that led to a corridor with a light on! So we desperately knocked until a man (the owner) came down the stairs. We told him our situation and he kindly let us sit in the reception and gave us each a cup of tea until we decided what we should do! There was talk of a taxi driving us back to the cottage, but costing £100 and with no taxi companies willing to do the 60 mile drive we decided that after the owner kindly offered to let us stay in the Inn at a very reasonable cost we would stay there for the night, and get rescued by the others in the minibus the next day.

So we all got snuggled into our nice warm beds with duvets and radiators. Then at about 1 o'clock in the morning our phones began to ring! It was the others who had come out looking for us -- and a phone signal. Much to their relief we told them we were safe, and they started their hour back to the cottage.

View from Cluanie Inn (AC)

The next day we woke up and the sun was out and it looked like a brilliant day for walking!

Cluanie Inn (PC)

Unfortunately for us we had to wait to get picked up by the minibus, and unfortunately for the guys on the minibus they had to come pick us up, so none of us got to go out walking. But overall it was an interesting experience!

Heading out to collect the (inn)famous five (PC)

'The Lost Party' written by: Alison Craig; Photos: Paul Crawford (PC), Alison Craig (AC)

Christmas Dinner, 28th Nov 2012

2012-11-28T23:59:00.000+00:00

For our Christmas Dinner this year we once more enjoyed the hospitality of Clarks on Lindsay Street. Photos are by Paul Crawford and James Simpkins. As Paul puts it, "A good (and occasionally strange) time was had by all."

The Presidential Address

If your device supports it you'll find a slideshow of the evening's photos below. Alternatively, click here to open the album itself.

Dundee Mountain Film Festival, 23-24 Nov 2012

2012-11-24T22:00:00.000+00:00

We've been providing refreshments at the Dundee Mountain Film Festival for a number of years. It's pretty busy but fun, and a big help to the Club (and hopefully the DMFF itself). Thanks to all who volunteered their time and culinary skills over the weekend.

DURC at the DMFF 2012: Guy and Ali awaiting customers on the top floor

You can view photos from DMFF 2012 here on the Festival's Flickr photostream.

Blair Atholl, 18th Nov 2012

2012-11-18T22:51:00.000+00:00

The closest meeting so far, to the village of Blair Atholl. While one group of four set off for a forest walk, the rest - nine in all - headed for the nearby Munro of Carn Liath, and beyond.

On the approach to Carn Liath, but not quite at the tediously steep part yet (Paul Crawford)

Remco was driving, which was appreciated, but it seems he missed breakfast.

Remco driving

The tedium of A9 traffic was offset by the impressive view of the morning mist.

Mist on the A9

Parked just north of Loch Moraig, Carn Liath (975m) looked equally impressive in the early sunlight.

Carn Liath

Before reaching the path proper, the route requires avoiding or crossing a few bogs and streams. Naturally it's necessary to have a camera out at such times, in case it ends in tragedy.

Jumping the water

There was a brief stop at the top of the first Munro, Carn Liath, before heading on towards the second.

At the trig point on Carn Liath

Group shot: the joys of a self-timer and mini tripod

En route to the next Munro

At the 2nd summit of Braigh Coire Chruinn-bhalgain (1070m)

The others didn't stop for lunch, but two decided to have lunch and then head back. Being a gentleman and not, as wicked scandal has it, a bit of a cad and bounder, Paul accompanied his companion back to the minibus. This photo was taken by another hillwalker, one who was in DURC during the late 1970s!

Braigh Coire Chruinn-bhalgain

On the way back, there was a fine view of the ridge between the two Munros - shame there was no view on the way over.

Ridge between Carn Liath and Braigh Coire Chruinn-bhalgain

On the road back to the car park

After descending it only remained to find a bar/restaurant while awaiting the return of the others.

At The Loft, Blair Atholl

Report, photos: Paul Crawford

Bowderstone Cottage, Lake District, 2-4 Nov 2012

2012-11-04T16:25:00.000+00:00

This, the club's second visit to Bowderstone Cottage, was notable for snow underfoot, clear blue skies, the spectacular views, and Meets Sec Calum's birthday celebrations, which included cake and fireworks... Ascents included Helvellyn via Striding Edge and Dale Head. Thanks to Neil Tan for his stunning photos.

Helvellyn, the Lake District (Neil Tan)

Click here to open the album for this trip. If your device supports it, you will also see a slideshow below.

All photos: Neil Tan, 2012

Linn of Dee, 28th Oct 2012

2012-10-28T23:59:00.000+00:00

It was a drab, overcast and showery day. With little prospect of a view from the peaks, around half of us decided to stick to a low-level walk and opted for the Clais Fhearnaig circuit, roughly a 10-mile hike when you include an inadvertent detour to Derry Lodge. The other groups struck off for higher ground, some taking in Carn Crom, the southern top of Derry Cairngorm, with the rest heading further afield to bag some Munros.

Cairngorms from Glen Quoich (James Simpkins)

Loch at Clais Fhearnaig (JS)

Lunch break at Clais Fhearnaig (JS)

The first groups back went for a drink or two in nearby Braemar, where we all eventually regrouped before heading home to Dundee.

Report, photos: James Simpkins

Blackrock Cottage, Glen Coe, 19-21 Oct 2012

2012-10-21T23:59:00.000+01:00

Just a few minutes walk from the White Corries ski area, Blackrock Cottage is perfectly placed for access to the Glen Coe mountains. After a lazy lie-in on the Saturday we end up splitting into two groups, with designs on Aonach Eagach and the 'Three Sisters' route, roaming over Stob Coire nan Lochan and Bidean nam Bian before descending via the Lost Valley.

Blackrock Cottage, Glen Coe (James Simpkins)

The Aonach Eagach group made it across and down in 4-5 hours. The rest of us took quite a bit longer and returned in the dark - in part due to a closed bridge requiring a messy, boggy traverse back to our starting point - but the enforced wait in the pub was endured with the kind of stoic sobriety you'd expect. Then it was back to the cottage for the usual hut games...

On Sunday a few headed up the road to tick off Meall a' Bhuiridh and Creise, while others went for a more leisurely walk up the Devil's Staircase before repairing to the King's House for lunch.

Buachaille Etive Mor from Blackrock Cottage (JS)

Click here to open this trip's album. If your device supports it, you will also see a slideshow below.

Photos: Nicola Cameron (NC), James Simpkins (JS) and Guy Templeton (GT)

Glen Nevis, 13th Oct 2012

2012-10-13T23:59:00.000+01:00

Always one of the more popular destinations, 45 of us made the journey up to Fort William this time. While most opted to head up the Ben Nevis mountain track, others took on longer and more strenuous routes: the CMD Arête, and Aonach Beag and Aonach Mor via Glen Nevis.

The weather was generally mediocre, cloudy and occasionally pretty wet, but the day was enlivened by there being a fair amount of snow high up, a foot or more on the summit of Ben Nevis itself. And we did manage the odd glimpse of blue sky.

October snow, Ben Nevis

Ben Nevis via the Carn Mor Dearg (CMD) Arête

There were two groups: Remco and Tomas left first, and were followed by Brett, Kit, Euan, Paul and Caspar, who wrote the report below.

An early meet at the buses and a 3 hour drive lead us to the foot of Ben Nevis. A quick sign of the meets book and we were on our way. We followed the tourist path up to Lochan Meall an t-Suidhe, then took a left and followed the path around the ridge.

As we gained height, clouds started to set in. We passed the emergency rescue shelter and headed up the side of the valley around the back of the North Face.

The North Face of Ben Nevis (Caspar More, 13 Oct 2012)

Heading along the Allt a'Mhuillin path

The CIC Hut

The cold began to grip us as we climbed. Loose rocks slipped under our feet. We scrabbled up onto the ridge and made our way onto the summit.

Final leg, the boulder field leading to the plateau

The snow was cold and the mist deep on the summit. We sheltered from the weather in the rescue hut. Then we made our descent via the tourist route.

Stunning views awaited us on our descent, the sun setting across the valley.

Sunset on the descent

Then we were back at the buses, feeling exhausted and, of course, headed for the pub for a well-earned pint.

A great atmosphere awaited our arrival at the Ben Nevis Inn. Couple of pints and a chat later it was time to head home. A sleepy bus later and we were back in bonnie Dundee for a well-deserved rest.

Words and photos: Caspar More

Ben Nevis via the Mountain Track

Let's start with the bad: due to poor communication up to 20 of the earliest returnees were left hanging around in the wet outside a locked bus while only a few minutes walk from the warmth of the Ben Nevis Inn. While waiting for people to get back is a routine part of most trips, this was completely avoidable and just shouldn't have happened. Sincere apologies to everyone who had a protracted wait out in the rain.

The good? Well, after a long trudge up in generally thick cloud...

A short-lived view from around halfway up at the Red Burn waterfall

...there were occasional views from the top and the summit looked great in the snow.

The summit plateau path cleaves close to the edge of the North Face

A glimpse of the summit and shelter across the plateau

The true purpose of trig points

The last party to arrive stayed for some time: with little wind to speak of it wasn't particularly cold and the opportunity to take lots of photos and hurl a few crafty snowballs proved irresistable.

At times it was possible to see...

...clear to the valley floor

Tower Ridge

The rocky plateau transformed by snow

October snowball fight

The initial descent afforded a few opportunities for bum slides and improvised skiing before hitting the uncovered path 200m or so lower down. After that it was a straightforward (albeit personally knee-jarring) walk in occasional and unwelcome rain.

An hour from the bottom Euan overtook the group on his way back from the CMD route, with Remco and Tomas not far behind. Then just as we got down and the pub came into sight we received a call about the people waiting at the bus. Nightmare.

There were still around two hours to go before those on the Aonachs route would return, but at least this time would now be spent in the comfort of the Ben Nevis Inn!

Words and photos: James Simpkins

Navigation Meet, Ochil Hills 7th Oct 2012

2012-10-07T23:59:00.000+01:00

Every year around this time we devote a meet to navigation, a training day aimed at giving members a chance to learn and develop essential skills such as map reading and taking bearings.

This year, taking over from Roger Wild, we were grateful to have the assistance of Heather Morning, Mountain Safety Advisor with the MCofS, who provided a morning lecture and then tuition during the day to one group.

Most of the other attendees grouped with an experienced member of the club and set off from Tillicoultry on various routes around the Ochil Hills.

At the summit of Ben Cleuch (Guy Templeton, 7 Oct 2012)

It was a lovely day - something of a break with navigation meets in recent years - which presented no navigational difficulties, but no-one seemed to be complaining!

It's a bit harder in the clag!

Exercises covered the basics you'll find in the MCofS' "Navigator's Dozen", comprising the 12 most important navigation skills: setting the map, taking bearings, interpreting contours, estimating distances, and so on.

Cairn west of Ellistoun Hill, around NS922992

Another group on Andrew Gannel Hill, NN918006

Most groups ended up on Ben Cleuch, at 721m the highest point, with The Law presenting a quick but steep descent route back down to Tillicoultry.

Wind farm near Ben Cleuch

Looking towards the top of The Law

Overall, another well-attended meet in exceptional weather, and people generally seemed happy with the navigational aspects of the trip. Our thanks once again to Heather Morning of the MCofS for lending her time and expertise.

Photos: Guy Templeton

For more information on the skills training opportunities offered by the club, please see the DURC website.

Autumn Ceilidh, 5th Oct 2012

2012-10-05T23:59:00.000+01:00

Photos from the ever-popular Autumn Ceilidh, this year held at Chamber East, Dundee.

All photos: Paul Crawford, 2012

Creag Meagaidh, Loch Laggan, 29th Sept 2012

2012-09-29T23:59:00.000+01:00

It was a foggy, wet and windy day around Loch Laggan, much worse than forecast, and with transport problems - frustrating but not of our making - delaying the start for some, most people decided to summit one or two of the Munros of the Creag Meagaidh circuit before retiring to the pub.

Looking along Coire Ardair, towards 'the Window' (Paul Crawford, 29 Sept 2012)

Some groups took the gradually rising path through Coire Ardair towards 'the Window', the rocky slope leading to a bealach between Creag Meagaidh and Stob Poite Coire Ardair, before turning off left to the former or right to the latter peak.

The fog-bound cliffs of Coire Ardair (Guy Templeton, 29 Sept 2012)

Heading up Coire Ardair (GT)

Ascending towards The Window (GT)

From Stob Poite Coire Ardair it was a trudge along the ridge in horizontal rain to Carn Liath.

Summit of Carn Liath (GT)

Loch Laggan from near Carn Liath (GT)

Another group aimed directly for Carn Liath, the nearest Munro to the car park. The initial part of this path is sketchy and wet at the best of times.

Heading up Na Cnapanan towards Carn Liath (PC)

Taking a break, backs to the wind (PC)

The ascent of Carn Liath is a steady grind on occasionally boggy ground.

Slogging up Carn Liath (PC)

Strong winds at the top of Carn Liath (PC)

Glad to reach the summit (PC)

At Carn Liath (PC)

As so often happens, once committed to descending the weather began to improve.

Returning via Na Cnapanan (PC)

A consolatory rainbow (PC)

Despite the blue skies back at the car park, the spectacular views for which Coire Ardair and the Creag Meagaidh circuit are justly known would have to wait for another day.

Blue skies at ground level (PC)

Photos:

Guy Templeton (GT) and Paul Crawford (PC)