Cairngorms..

Dave and I were in the Northern Cairngorms today continuing our two days of winter skills. The conditions were more favourable in the east Highlands with better visability and no rain.

Despite this the freezing level was way above the summits resulting in a moist and stable snowpack. Plenty of snow remains in these north facing corries and there were plenty of folk out enjoying the weather.

The technical mixed routes are generally out of condition, although the major gullies lines are generally complete. Care is required in and around the crag due to the risk off rockfall during these thaw conditions.

Sandy Paterson was also out on Saturday: "I was on the Asssociation of Mountaineering Instructors (AMI) West Coast Winter Workshop run by Ed Chard. After hearing that the Gondola was shut on Aonach Mor we headed for Coire nan Lochan were we worked on some short roping up onto 'Dorsal Arete', did a number of short pitches up this before looking at lowers and short roping down 'Broad gully'. There was still a fair bit of snow in the coire but by the time we walked out at 3pm the snow pack was completely saturated and the rock was black. I imagine what survives the thaw will be excellent neve when the freeze comes. Fingers crossed!..."