Ben Nevis

I had a morning to spare, so planned a quick jaunt up Ben Nevis. I’d admired this from a distance for years and was keen to add it to my list of completed Abels. I headed out of Launceston and was at the trailhead just off Telopea road just over an hour after departing at about 10am. It was a warm day and absolutely clear. Not a cloud in the sky. It would be a hot day.

I was straight onto the track and started the climb up through the scrubby Eucalyptus forest. After 25 minutes or so the forest gave way to lower scrub and I gradually arrived on the plateau. The views were fantastic with all of the surrounding North East peaks visible. I continued along the plateau and the summit trig point came into sight. It lay across a valley and up to the main summit. After quickly crossing this valley I arrived at the summit after about 50 minutes. I had good views across to Jacobs Ladder on Ben Lomond as well as across to Mt Barrow and all of the North East peaks. I stayed on top for about 10 minutes taking some time to soak up the views. After a quick snack I headed back off the summit and straight back down. I walk back at the car about half an hour after leaving the summit. Back in town in time for lunch. A great walk - I’ll be back.

STATS (using Suunto Spartan Ultra)

Time 1hr 55mins

Distance 4.74km

Ascent 445m

GALLERY BELOW