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CMD ARêTE (Càrn Mòr Dearg Arête)The vast majority of people that summit Ben Nevis do so via the mountain path as described above. However, this alternative option is an excellent day in the mountains if you are up for the challenge. The ridge has an airy feel approaching Ben Nevis from its neighbouring Munro Càrn Mòr Dearg, with a completely different starting point to the mountain path. This, in itself, offers you entirely different views of Ben Nevis. The North Face comes into view once through an initial forest section, showing an altogether other side of Ben Nevis. A beautiful view that often people don’t even realise exists. A wall of seemingly endless crags & gullies, full of summer and winter climbing routes, split by famous ridges such as Castle Ridge & Tower Ridge. We get to enjoy this unique view of the North Face as well as CMD arête. This is the back wall between the two Munros which we’ll see ahead of us as we ascend onto Càrn Mòr Dearg, the first Munro of the day.
After making our way over the first Munro, it’s time to enjoy this stunning ridge taking in the extraordinary situation as we curve our way around to Ben Nevis. From here, we ascend to the summit of Ben Nevis, the second summit of the day and the highest mountain in the UK. Descending, we’ll follow the main path part way down the lovely halfway lochan before turning right back towards our start point of The North Face car park.
How long does CMD Arête take?
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 9 to 11 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 certainly is a long day but well worth the effort for a different side of Ben Nevis and a pleasant intro into ridge walking.
CMD Arête - Is it for me?
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.
Because of the nature of the ridge, we will ask to speak to you or for you to answer some questions about your previous mountain experience prior to joining this walk if we haven’t met you before. If you are unsure if this is suitable for you and your experience level, please get in contact with us via the contact page.
Group Size: Max 4 people
Fitness: The day is a long walk and an airy ridge. Good hill fitness & head for heights will be required.
Duration: 9-11 hours
Price: £95
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CMD Arete and Ben Nevis, Glenmoidart, Cameron Road, Fort William, PH33 6, United Kingdom, Oban
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