A man; out on the land.: Group camp in the Ogwen Valley...

Our group pitch at Gwern Gof Isaf campsite, in the Ogwen Valley.

It has been a couple of weeks since I returned from Snowdonia, and the first meet of the 'Hiking and Camping for UK Adventurers" group on Facebook. True to form, I haven't had much time to do any form of write-up. So this post will consist mainly of pictures from what was a great weekend...

To begin with, I would say that this meet was a great success. We had a good number of people turn up, ranging in experience and ability. I have to give special thanks to Joe, who offered to give me a lift from Sheffield and also to Dave - who did the vast majority of the organising. That said, thanks extend to everyone else in attendace for their part in what was, hopefully; the first of many weekends.

I must say also that Gwern Gof Isaf, while not the most highly featured campsite, is a very good site indeed. Great location, working toilets, and a water source to wash and use for cooking. In an officiated site, I need nothing more.

The first day at Gwern Gof Isaf was a gloriously sunny one...

Most of the group chose to walk to "Australia Lake" via Tryfan Bwlch, however; Myself, Joe and Rhys tackled the infamous north ridge of Tryfan. What-a-day! It was a cracking scramble, hairy at times and enjoyable in every step/reach. There were a multitude of routes that seemed accessible, making the climb quite personal despite the numbers of people also tackling the ridge on the day. The ability to pick and choose deviations was entertaining and ensured that you keep your eyes on where you are going, rather than straight lining to the top.

Heading towards Tryfan on a very cloudy, clag filled second day...

The canon stone half way up (stop and pose for a picture), and Adam and Eve on the summit are not the only mentionables of this lump of rock. The views on the way up, back up and down the Ogwen Valley are breathtaking. I imagine the vista from the top is impressive too, but not when visibility is down to 20m as it was for us. None the less, it was a great day.

I shall leave you with some more pictures. The cloud was low throughout the second day and so picture opportunities were limited...