John Chivall, Outdoor Instructor

An early start from Glasgow with Karen and her brother Scott saw us starting up the Pony Track in very wet weather. We were into the cloud before we got to the Red Burn, but we made steady progress up the zig-zags to be rewarded by a break in the clouds as we neared the summit cairn. It felt very cold in the wind - the air temperature was only just above freezing, but with cloud hanging around in the corrie and a bright sun appearing, I was able to show Scott and Karen their first Brocken Spectre, which unfortunately did not photograph too well. On the way down, the cloud continued to clear leaving us with some delightful views of the west highlands. A long day out, but both were pleased to have climbed Britain's highest mountain. Next time, Scott wants go via the Carn Mor Dearg arete!

Taking a look at the map, counting off the zig-zags

The mists clear as we approach the summit

The highest place in Britain

Happy to see the views on the descent

Some locals hanging around the Red Burn

All pictures courtesy of Karen Williams.