Crust!
9th January 2026
Complex snowpack at Creag Meagaidh at the moment. We have a widespread crust up to approx 850m. From 700m upwards it’s been partially buried in places and has developed some weaker crystals either side of it. Instability isn’t profound since the overlying slab doesn’t readily propagate fractures but is nevertheless a concern on steeper slopes. Snow at altitudes above where the crust peters out is somewhat better consolidated but it could receive a top up of fresh windslab if we get any overnight snowfall. However, the Met Office have low confidence in snowfall amounts for our area.
Where exposed the crust continues to hamper movement up or down on the hill. I was on skis today which was just OK for upward progress but descents from circa 800m downwards had my skis submarining under it and into the heather below. Higher level travel will be less affected by this problem.
(Above) The Big Picture. Currently most snow lies on any aspect with a bit of South on it.
(Above) More detailed shot showing the crags at the far end of Coire Ardair. (Na Cnapanan is the bump on the near skyline).
(Above) 700m on Sron a Ghoire. Just contemplating the crust and the deep heather combo before skiing off Sron a Ghoire. I’m struggling to think of an adjective strong enough to convey the awfulness of it. ‘Combat’ skiing is tried and tested so might work. But ‘mortal combat’ skiing ups the ante a bit and describes the jeopardy better?
(Above) Coire Dubh and Coire nan Gall on the south-facing part of the Carn Liath plateau. Flat light meant conditions weren’t the best for photography unfortunately.
(Above) Cornices above Coire Dubh, as viewed from the A86. Quite a few still in place in these and similar locations at the moment.
(Above) Beinn a Chaorainn today. (The photo needed quite a lot of post production adjustment to get any contrast.)
(Above) Beinn a Chaorainn’s East Ridge.
Comments on this post
Got something to say? Leave a comment
KEITH HORNER
9th January 2026 7:11 pm
‘Gladitorial skiing’ – where there can only be one winner, and it’s never the skier……..!
meagaidhadmin
9th January 2026 7:21 pm
Winner! That’s a good one and so true.