So it would appear that about twelve months ago, James and I foolishly decided to do every scramble in Steve Ashton’s guide, “Scrambles in Snowdonia”. Even more foolishly, we then mentioned this to other people, resulting in an expectation that we would actually go out and do it, rather than just conveniently forgetting it and never mentioning it again.

While the main factor against us seems to be time, quickly followed by the weather, I must confess there are a couple of routes which are scaring me witless even after just reading the description. I’ve heard the Ashton guide referred to as “The Steve Ashton Book of Death”, and phrases such as the following don’t help: “… the terrain remains treacherous and a lack of easy escape is the strongest motive for continuing. Only those experienced in dangerous terrain should consider an ascent, and they would be wise not to bother.” (Yr Esgair, Grade 3). However, we’ve said we’ll do it, so now we’re committed.

The only rules seem to be that the route has to be done in ascent – descents don’t count – and if there is a choice of lines, then the harder one must be taken. There’s no particular order in which they’re all being done; we’re just making it up as we go along.

Current Status:
Haydn – 37/69 (54%)
James – 27/69 (39%)

The Full List:

Green – Haydn & James have completed
Amber – Haydn has completed
Red – Neither have completed