CMD Route - Ben Nevis

The CMD Arête route offers an excellent alternative for a more challenging and adventurous ascent. This walk is considered more demanding than the main path, and the estimated time for the CMD Arête route is approximately 7-9 hours. While this route requires a higher level of fitness, it rewards us with a unique and unforgettable experience of Ben Nevis from a different perspective.

This route is a tough walk not only for the length of the day but also for the ridge itself. The ridge can feel airy & intimidating with scrambly sections along the ridge. This may test your head for heights & you may need to use your hands for balance as we move along it. We are on hand to coach you through sections as and where necessary for you.

STATS: 2 peaks - 1500m of ascent - 10 miles
Peaks Included: Carn Mor Dearg & Ben Nevis

Meeting Instructions

The meeting point is at the North Face Car Park in Torlundy (Close to Fort William). The meeting time is 7am with hope to set off for 7:15am. Once arrived, you will need to read and sign a waiver.

North Face Car Park
Torlundy
Fort William
PH33 6SW

WHAT 3 WORDS: ///prepared.swims.evenly

BAD WEATHER?

In nearly all instances of bad weather, we will still continue the hike if there is poor visibility, heavy rain and wind. In cases where we have severe winds or thunderstorms forecasted, then I will either cancel the route (arrange for an alternative date) or offer an alternative route at a lower level. Safety is my main priority when hiking in the mountains and with the alternative route, we can still have a fantastic day!

WHAT TO EXPECT?
You should be comfortable walking up to 11 miles and have a reasonably good fitness level. Sometimes the hikes are relatively long days in the mountains and you will need a positive attitude towards the great outdoors (with generous encouragement from me of course). The CMD route is a grade 1 mountain route with a mix of rocky terrain, grassy paths and steep ascents/descents - this can be a difficult day on the mountains. If you have any medical conditions, please let me know beforehand. As this is a grade 1 scramble, a good head for heights will be needed.

WHAT TO BRING?
A typical kit list for a day hike would include:

• Backpack - around 30 litres
• Lunch
• Hot drink
• Water - at least 1.5L

• Lunch

• Snacks to keep you going

• Warm Hat & Gloves

• Midlayer - Fleece

• Waterproof Jacket

• Suitable hiking trousers - No joggers/jeans
•Waterproof overtrousers
• Suitable hiking boots
• Warm jacket

• Sun protection (suncream & sunglasses)
• Any personal medication

SEE YOU THERE!