On friday Steve Ashworth and I took advantage of the high pressure forecast and went to Ben Nevis looking for early season mixed conditions. I climbed a few mixed lines last year (particularly on the International Meet - see archives) and think the No 3 Gully buttress area is one of Scotlands premier mixed venues and comes into condition early. Other than one team on Ledge Route and a solo walker in No 4 Gully we had the mountain to ourselves (apart from the deer and eagle seen on the walk in).
We did what we think is the 3rd ascent (winter) of the summer (HVS) route 'Sioux Wall'. This was first climbed by Andy Turner and Doug Hodgson and then repeated by an international team last season. The route consists of 3 quality sustained and direct pitches then joins No 3 Gully Buttress near the traverse.

I'm sure Steve will post more photos on his Blog at: www.mixedmaster.blogspot.com

Thanks to Steve Ashworth for the three following images:

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