The freezing level was easy to identify as we walked up into Cwm Idwal on Sunday to go scrambling. The streams were iced up to about 600m, but flowing below. Because of this, we opted (after several changes of plan), to do a lower level scramble on the side of Idwal Slabs. I'd not taken a team up there in ages - I don't know why, as its brilliant, has a short walk in and great views (even on a misty day)! Today I was working with a colleague, so we operated as two small teams, but climbed the same route. The large ledges between the scrambling were perfect for re-grouping, rope sorting, snacking and checking everyone was ok.
We moved continuously in small pitches, with quick (and sometimes shared) belays. This meant that the teams were never hanging around long enough to get cold even though snow flakes were gentle starting to fall!
After completing Seniors Direct's Route, we transferred routes to an ascent of the Gully proper of 'Senior's Gully'. This was much more icy as it was higher, but the technicalities were easier so we were able to continue without the ropes.
The Gully ends in Cwm Cenefion, where on a clear day, a continuation up the famous 'rib' above would be a quality day indeed. But today, the lads had had more than enough excitement and expended enough energy to justify a triumphant return to Ogwen Cottage, buzzing about the adventures.
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