The conditions on Saturday were unfavourable with outbreaks of rain, sleet and snow. There was hill fog for most of the day and breaking trail in fresh snow was hard work. Despite these conditions however, I was determined to make the most of the day and explore new areas. Indeed, a joke can be a serious thing.
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| Diffwys Ddu from the foot of Gwter Fawr |
Diffwys Ddu (Cyrn Las) is a striking crag. When facing Diffwys Ddu directly, there is a deep ravine to the right of the crag, namely Gwter Fawr. Technically, Gwter Fawr is a grade I * winter gully and is a useful introductory gully for the aspirant winter walker/climber.
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| Face Route/Equator Walls Area Credit: Andrew McQue |
When ascending Gwter Fawr it is possible to observe Face Route/Equator Walls Area of Cwm Glas, which is another striking area of crag architecture.
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| The view from the upper reaches of Gwter Fawr |
On the day, from the top of Gwter Fawr, I traversed across, and then down, into Upper Cwm Glas, to then ascend Parsley Fern Gully II ***. Because of heavy snowfall, progress was slow, with both gullies being more of a snow plod, but an enjoyable snow plod.