First Corbett and red deer of the year.....Beinn Mhic Mhonaid

Hill: Beinn Mhic Mhonaid (Mountain of the son of the moor)

Type: Corbett:

Height: 796m

A frosty morning with blue skies was an excellent start to the day. The Eas Urchaidh falls on the River Orchy were roaring spectacularly. This flood of water was also my concern would all the water crossings further up be possible to negotiate? Looking at the map I counted 5 but could be more.

First view

Ascent heading for the small tops

It is a very long walk in through the forest and in reality quite boring. There are some beautiful traditional trees but much more modern pine plantations. Occasionally there was a pleasant clearing giving some views, but alongside deer fences spoilt it a little. The wood seemed devoid of life, the occasional angry tit calling somewhere but really quiet, so weird. So it was a long plod taking just over an hour before the open countryside was reached. All burns crossed safely but the last one in the woods could be a significant obstacle if running higher.

From the shielings there is a faint track to follow for about a third of the ascent. There was a downside. Tracks attract water and at these temperatures the water had iced so I ended up walking through the tussocks preferable to constantly slipping.

About half way up I managed to lift my head and I spotted a red deer herd on the ridge, nice sight. Obviously they hadn't heard all the noises I was making as they stayed for some time.

Lui hills

Summit

Dalmally hills

Looking east to Rannoch moor Orchy hills on right

The ascent was really just a constant plod up the grassy slopes before the summit plateau was reached. Bitterly cold but superb 360 degree views. Well worth the effort. Which ever way I looked snow speckled Munro tops surrounded me. Dalmally hills. Black Mouth hills. Orchy hills. Lui hills and many many more.

Descent aiming for corner pines, the long ridge of the Graham Beinn Donachain behind

Back down the same way. Ben Lui looked majestically alpine as clouds came and went leaving more snow on its flanks. That would be a a dodgy descent today.

Beard lichen Usnea filipendula

Still despite the barren forest there was a few interesting trees and it was a worthwhile ramble on a lovely day.

Ascent: 846m

Distance: 14.5km

Time: 4.36

Wildlife: Red deer; Blue Tit;