The year 2012 will be remembered as a great one all round, and that includes good times in the hills. I was again based in Torridon for the full calendar year so unbagged hills in north-west Highlands are becoming fewer and fewer. Separate trips to local hills of Maoile Lunndaidh, Eididh nan Clach Geala and Beinn Airigh Charr were highlights but left me wondering why it had taken me five years to climb such good hills on my doorstep, yet delighting that they are so close. The answer is of course the weather. Whilst the rest of the UK had the wettest year on record, Wester Ross was mostly bathed in sunshine and practically midge free. I almost feel I should offer sympathy for other areas but suspect the weather will take its own revenge. Further afield to north Wales for new wee Marilyns, Yorkshire for old favourites, and Galloway for snow-capped bigger Marilyns all added to the hillwalking bag, so good progress on all hill categories that I am interested in.
Beinn Airigh Charr (photo: Trevor Littlewood)
The highlight of 2012 was, without doubt, Conachair; brilliant weather following the usual few days of will we/won't we be able to sail. The lowlight was also undoubted: in failing light, failing to get to the top of Woodhead Hill. Hill of the Wangie is deposed from its position of worst hill, as I did not even get close to the summit of WH.
Extra-curricular activities: an overseas trip to Jotunheimen National Park in Norway emptied the coffers of this short-armed deep-pocketed Yorkshireman but it was a great experience.
2012 was certainly the year when I became much more enthused by using the bike to access hills. This was kick-started in April with a ride up Strath Rannoch from Inchbae Lodge to bag Carn Loch nan Amhaichean and Beinn nan Eun. Panniers have been purchased so I am looking forward to adventures with the bike and tent in 2013.
With my new partner, Emily, I became MO for Ollisdale bothy so have begun to have regular escapes Skye-ward.