Sgurr an Utha

It had been several weeks since my last walk out - as hectic a November as I can remember. I had booked a night up in the Glenuig inn and was really impressed with this part of the world. Just the view down Loch Eilt was sublime. After a great breakfast, I was parked at the lay-by by 0900 and it was very cold but clear. I began the walk up the excellent Land Rover track and very quickly, height was gained, with lovely views back over to the Corbetts over Loch Eilt. Glas-Charn was visible now and I was surprised how far up the mountain the track went. At 470m, I left the track and began the climb up towards my objective. A herd of deer raced across the mountain, with the snow-line now being encroached upon.

Visibility was excellent. I thoroughly enjoyed the yomp across to the ridge between Sgurr an Utha and Fraoch-Bheinn. Eventually, I levelled out on the ridge and the views across to the Glenfinnan Munros and Streap were outstanding. It had been a good few years since I'd been that way with Graeme and now sadly departed Lucy. The wind was pretty chilly at this point and so I made my way to the summit. The coire dropped away sharply and Loch Beoraid stretched West. However, I couldn't believe that I could now also see Rhum, Eigg and Skye. I didn't pause too long at the summit, as it was very cold and I knew I had some tricky negotiations ahead of me down the South-West ridge. It was fabulous just taking my time down the mountain and it didn't feel long before I made it over the burn, and back on to the Land Rover track. As I made my way down, the land owner presumably, drove up in his 4x4 and said he was off to shoot some hinds. What a life. Mine will do nicely thanks.