On a high as Munros are bagged
Our Lady of Lourdes Hiking Club headed to Glen Shee for their latest hill-climbing outing on Saturday, stopping briefly en route for refreshments near Perth.
Both high and low level groups began their walks at the Glen Shee skiing centre in the shadow of resting ski tows and chairlifts before the large group of low level walkers headed off in an easterly direction to tackle two Munros and two Munro tops, while a smaller high level group took a westerly route to achieve a single Munro, An Socach (944m).
For the low levellers tackling the Glas Maol (1068m)-Leacach (987m) circuit the initial climb up Meall Odhar (922m) allowed them to take advantage of sport-related land-rover tracks for some distance and presented little difficulty.
Thereafter the terrain varied from steep slopes, some rocky, with low vegetation to extremely bouldery paths requiring care to negotiate safely. This group appreciated the superb views as it achieved Glas Maol and Creag Leacach with its sheer scree shanks and extra Munro top at 943m.
A mossy descent around the shoulder of Meall Gorm brought the climbers to a river crossing and easy walk back to the road for a bus pick-up after a fairly challenging walk.
Meanwhile the high walkers’ route, an out-andback trek passing north of Loch Vrotachan and over Baddenoch Burn to An Socach, presented no problems for the group which decided to alter the return journey by making its return descent down Baddenoch Glen to the road for a pick-up.
Both groups had a great day out with mainly dry, sunny weather and even some wild life to spot in the form of mountain hares, deer and grouse.
At the end of a successful day the members were happy to relax for a well-earned hour of refreshment in Blairgowrie before returning home.
The next trip to the Loch Katrine area will be this Saturday, October 15. New members are made very welcome. Phone Charles on 01355 222464 for details or email ololhikingclub@yahoo.co.uk The club website is at www.ololhikingclub.co.uk.