Foolishly (?), I decided to tackle this from Incheril near Kinlochewe. I had been into Fisherfield this way before and I remember the walk into Lochan Fada as being decent and bike-able. However, I did not bank on the lack of path thereafter to A Mhaighdean or the near lack of running water to top up hydration stocks. There had been several weeks of dry, warm weather so I was looking forward to a high camp near the summit. Plus, I felt confident in my fitness. Perhaps over-confidence got the better of me.
I had a nice drive up to Incheril and arrived just before 1400. Got the MTB assembled and was good to go and head into Glean na Muice. I had left a note to MrsP saying Incheril but then forgot to tell her which hills. That played on my mind right until I got reception precisely 5 hours later.
It was a joy cycling the first 5km, but then the path rises steeply and it was sweaty work to the bridge. I decided to leave the bike just past the bridge, then walk. It was very warm and I was sweating profusely. By the time I got to Lochan Fada, I realised I was 750ml down with 500ml left. A Mhaighdean looked far off and I estimated it would take me a couple of hours hard walking across lumpy ground, under Beinn Tarsuinn.
I began the traverse below Beinn Tarsuinn but it was slow progress. I did find a clear running burn and topped up another 500ml. I would boil it later. This left me with 1 litre and I was still drinking. I made it to Pollan na Muice and took in the splendour of Fisherfield. What a wondrous land it is. I slowed as I climbed up to a point at 780m, where I set up camp. A bit of food, and I began the final climb to A Mhaighdean. The summit and views are everything in the books and more. Mind-blowing. With a lovely breeze, I checked in with Mrs P and advised of plan for next morning. I would come back to Ruadh Stac Mor again from the West. I descended, rehydrated, ate and chilled. I wake at 0130 with a snipe drumming. Had no idea what it was. Actually thought it might be a UFO!
I awoke at 0415 next morning, packed up and retraced my steps to bike and then car. Back by 0800 and then a stop at the Midge Bite for a wondrous breakfast. Super experience.
