The Great Outdoors - UK (2021-08)

Nestled in Beinn Narnain's summit crags with some banter before bedtime

to leave till a little later in the day.It’salso a hill where I spent a
cold nightsleeping on a folded-out mapon the summitbecause
I forgot to pack a mat. So I made a list this time and I definitely
checked ittwice.

BOULDERS AND BANTER
Aer stopping for a few snacks, itwas a clear road to Arrochar
and into anearly empty car park. at’sone of the benefits ofthe
midweek mini adventure. In the carpark therewas some gear
admin, some final packing to be done, and then some rucksack
adjustments aer the fullovernight load was hoisted onto our
hips and shoulders. Itdidn’tmatter than everything I had in
my sack was of a lightweight variety – I could still feel it. I’llbe

working lockdown out of mysystem for a while yet.

Wecrossed theroad under blue skies andheaded onto the trail

up through the trees.

e sounds ofthe road faded with heightand the switchbacks

of the trail revealed a little more of the view east. Ben Lomond

looks grand from here– a beacon signalling the start of the

Highlands.

A few late stragglerspassed byus on their way downas we

sauntered uphill and into the cool evening. Greg grinned at this.

As a fast mover,he’dhave been home bynow on anormal hill day

• not starting outlike this.
  e banterwas freelyflowing and it soened the impact
  of my stiff legs as we cleared thetrees and greetedthe fantastic

Wild camping

August 2021 The Great Outdoors 47