Càrn Mòr Dearg

The Càrn Mòr Dearg Arête is the walker's way to the top of Ben Nevis, and much the better one. From the North Face parking lot at Torlundy you climb Càrn Mòr Dearg first, then follow a narrow crest curving around the head of Coire Leis toward the Ben. Uphill on the crest the scrambling is easy Grade 1, and you can drop to one side of it to avoid the airiest bits or escape a strong wind. It is a big day, about 16 km and six and a half hours or more. The summit plateau needs serious navigation: in mist, careful compass work is essential to avoid Gardyloo Gully on the way down.