Tower Ridge * * * |
Location: Errigal Grade: VD Length: 180m |
First ascent: Columba McLaughlin and Noel McLaughlin October 1999 |
Route Description: |
A superb Donegal mountain ridge climbing experience with some very fine and exposed positions. Access Errigal’s North West face from the northern farm access road, be careful where you park. Errigal's Tower Ridge faces NNW and takes time to dry out after rain. Start at the eastern (left hand)base of the ridge and scramble up and over rocky obstacles (very greasy when wet and poor protection) until the base of the 1st Tower is reached. This point can also be accessed directly. From here scramble up the Eastern edge of the 1st Tower until a narrow ramp allows access back to the centre of the tower. There is a belay below the Finger (projecting Block). Easier going from here until the top of the 1st Tower and a good belay position. There is a good view of the narrow 'Staircase' from here. Scramble up the 5 steps of ‘The Staircase’ (2nd Tower). Be careful of the 3rd step which is loose, very narrow and poorly protected. Climb the block at the top to gain a good ledge and access to the top of ‘The Ramp’ and a bombproof belay position. Walk past the top of the ramp to the base of the 3rd Tower and gain the right hand skyline ridge for a short airy and unprotected scramble to the col with the NWMC Ridge and then a pleasant dander up to the 2nd Summit. |
Errigal's Tower Ridge - A brilliant 3 star *** Donegal Mountain Ridge route. The left hand (Eastern) ridge line is best. Base of the 1st Tower can be accessed directly. Very greasy in wet conditions. The Staircase is very dangerous in windy conditions. |
Comments |
Bill - 24/03/2013 |
Pete - 14/03/2013 |
Alfie Conn - 27/02/2013 |
Alan Tees - 27/02/2013 |
IM - 12/05/2011 |
henry Mckee - 11/10/2010 |
Iain Miller - 16/07/2010 |
Route Number: 2117