Ogwen Trip report

The trip was (as per tradition) very rainy, however this did not dampen the psyche of the stoats!

Saturday morning saw half the group head off to brave a scramble up to Tryfan in pretty windy and wet conditions, whilst the other half split to do a swim in lake Idwal (freezing as always) or a walk around lake Ogwen. We met back up at the café for a quick hot drink, followed by the famous “Idwal squeeze” boulder problem.

After loading up the drying room and a much-needed rest after the morning activities, the group headed off to Llanberis and Betws-y-Coed to check out the climbing shops and some even made a quick visit to the slate museum!

After this, everyone returned to the hut for the evening which was spent playing games and discussing plans for the next day, followed by a small firepit and sparklers (unsuccessful long-exposure photography attempts) as a bonfire night celebration.

On Sunday, the keenness to get some climbing done remained so most of the group headed off to the slate quarries for a few sport routes in between the showers, with a couple of stoats deciding to opt for a walk instead. The shelter of the caves was even utilised for a few introduction lessons on cleaning routes! Everyone returned to the hut to dry off, get everything packed and clean up and we headed back to Brum.

Despite the weather conditions, the trip was a success – it was nice to see so much enthusiasm from new members as well as returning familiar faces. Thanks to the MAM for their patience and guidance! 😊