Winter on the Reek

The first snow of the season fell on the Reek on December 12th 2015. We took the ‘normal’ pilgrims route up the mountain from Murrisk in order to take a closer look.

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Conditions were quite calm on the lower slopes, with the snow really starting to accumulate about halfway to the shoulder. Once into the clouds, however, it was quite a different story. As we approached the first station at about 1700 feet, a strong north wind was blowing. This was to become a gale higher up the mountain.

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By the time we reached the base of the summit cone, the snow drifts were up to three feet deep in places. Now the going started to get difficult, with ice forming on the exposed rocks.

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Approaching the summit, we were surprised to see a shadowy form emerge from the mists to my right and stagger off down the mountain. Realizing that the person was on a route that led towards the steep north east face, I shouted a warning that was lost in the gale.

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Despite relying on sturdy hiking boots, we realized that the surface rocks on the summit cone were going to be a challenge, as they were sliding even more easily than usual. So it was a case of two steps up and one step back for a while.

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Descending from the summit, it was obvious how easy it would be to veer off the normal path, as everything basically looked the same, with snow-filled gullies left and right. With the wind howling, the temperature change above the shoulder was dramatic. Even wearing a woolen hat and anorak hood, I could feel my ears acknowledging the sub zero wind chill.

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Back on the shoulder, a few people came walking along the ridge. They were well kitted out for the challenge, with poles, gaiters and Goretex clothing. However, the next group of individuals were ascending with ordinary shoes, no hats and thin jackets. They confirmed that they were heading for the top.

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“How is it up there?” one asked, at the same time offering 20 Euros if I would give him a ‘lift’ to the summit.

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“It’s a bit dodgy,” I replied. “You need to stay well to the left and watch out for the deeper drifts.”

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“That’s fine,” he said. “We’re a dodgy crowd at the best of times.”

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We wished them good luck and realized that it would be a challenge for most of us to get off the mountain and home to a warm fire without a few unplanned excursions on the slippery way down.

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The difficulties of this climb reminded me that despite its proximity to civilization and a warm bowl of soup in Campbells pub, Croagh Patrick is not a mountain to be taken lightly, especially when conditions can deteriorate without warning on higher ground. Once back in the car park, I used my binoculars to scan the visible parts of the northeast face for any sign of the climber who had taken the wrong path, and was relieved to see him traversing across to the main route.

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Anyone planning to scale the Reek after a fresh fall of snow would do well to prepare for difficult conditions on the summit cone – strong hiking boots are essential, along with waterproof trousers and several layers of clothing, including gloves and warm headgear. Despite the well-worn path, it is important to be vigilant on the descent and not be lured into one of several gullies that sweep to the left of the mountain. The northeast face can be treacherous, even in summer. Bring extra food and a flask, and even a compass – better safe than sorry!

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