The third pitch.
The start of Pitch one.
Liam after paddling over.
All the toys for our adventures today.
The second pitch, really nice climbing on interesting ice formations.
Liam approaching the route from the Loch Side.
Today Liam and I went to have a look at Lumberjack's Falls 3, 130m on Loch Awe side. At grade 3 its not the hardest route in the world, but rarely comes into condition as it's so low in altitude.
The climb is a great route for a short day, but also a fun wee adventure, as we open boated across the loch on a mirror like day the light and orange tones in the water was beautiful.
We found brittle steep ice, the ice screw protection was a little hollow at times, but adequate.
3 pitches of really good and delicate climbing was had. Liam's crampon snapped on pitch three, so we finished the route and in two abseils we were back at our packs.
When the conditions are this cold seeking out slightly more esoteric and unusual routes is well worth considering, especially if you want to beat the crowds!
If it stays cold, these falls will be in condition for a good while! Snow is forecast tonight, so change of feel in Oban...
Winter Climbing and Mountaineering Courses http://www.hebrideanpursuits.com/
