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General => Meets, places, trips and reviews => Topic started by: Dowser on July 30, 2010

Title: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: Dowser on July 30, 2010
Did this expedition ever take place: http://www.ni-wild.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=1075.0

I'm looking for a change of scenary and think a trip to Co Kerry is called for..!  It's bit of a drive just for an overnighter so I would like to make a weekend out of it.  There's three peaks just asking to be conquered, all of which are higher than Donard:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_mountains#Ireland
Carrauntoohil (1,038 metres), highest mountain in the Republic of Ireland and the island as a whole.
Beenkeragh (1010 metres), Co. Kerry, second highest mountain in Ireland
Mount Brandon(952 metres), Co. Kerry, highest mountain on the Dingle peninsula
Lugnaquilla (925 metres) is the highest mountain in Leinster and the 13th highest Irish peak
Slieve Donard (850 metres), Co. Down, highest mountain in the province of Ulster and Northern Ireland
Mweelrea (814 metres), Co. Mayo, highest mountain in Connacht
Slieve Gullion (573 metres), Co.Armagh

I would like to take on Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon some weekend before the end of August.

Let me know if this would be of interest to you and we can start organising another NI Wild Epic.  Okay, it's no Ben Nevis (1,344 m) in the snow, but would still be a bit of craic  8)

Definates
Dowser - Available Fri 20th - Mon 23rd inclusive
LennyJ1 - Available Fri 20th - Mon 23rd inclusive
MG1 - Available Sat 21st - Sun 22nd inclusive
Chris - Available Sat 21st - Sun 22nd inclusive
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: LennyJ1 on July 30, 2010
I would be up for this weekend of the 21st and 22nd is my ideal weekend.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: 666_pack on July 30, 2010
no not yet but me and MG1 were trying to get dates sorted, August would be a good month to give it a blast though
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: blokarter on July 30, 2010
Hi Dowser

We are heading to Kerry on 7th August.
Going to start in Castlegregory where we hope to do Brandon, and then on to Killarney area.

Going to be there for about 10 days.
If you are about in those dates I am sure we could meet up somewhere.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: LennyJ1 on August 02, 2010
any more thought on this?
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: Dowser on August 02, 2010
I would be up for this weekend of the 21st and 22nd is my ideal weekend.

The weekend of the 21st and 22nd works well for me too.  Could anybody else interested in this trip confirm if this weekend is good for them and we can start making arrangements.

Kerry is quite a distance Approx 300 miles from Belfast (6/7 Hours Journey Time).  I would suggest travelling down on Friday 20th and finding a campsite to use for the first night so we can get up fresh and well prepared for completing the three summits. I will try and find a convenient campsite and get prices etc tonight.  If anybody has any local knowledge of Kerry (which I have none of what-so-ever) and can recommend a nearby campsite that would be great.  I am hoping to buy an OS Map of the area tomorrow morning on my way to work.

Transport wise, I have a Nissan X-Trail that will comfortably fit 4 with all their gear, or uncomfortably 5.  Depending on numbers we may need another volunteer to drive and we can all split the fuel costs.

Please register your interest in this trip as early as poss

Cheers

Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: LennyJ1 on August 02, 2010
Killarnie is not to bad I stayed there 4-5 years ago but can't for the life of me remember the campsite name.

I might be able to get my car if the wife lets me? ( I will get back to you on that one.)

Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: LennyJ1 on August 02, 2010
Fossa Caravan And Camping Park in Killarney is the place I stayed.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: blokarter on August 02, 2010
I use the printed guide of this website & the info is never far wrong.

http://www.camping-ireland.ie/kerry/kerry.html
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: Dowser on August 02, 2010
Fossa Caravan And Camping Park in Killarney is the place I stayed.

I just spoke to the owner of Fossa (http://www.fossacampingkillarney.com/).  His name is Derry and he has cleared it for us (A group of lads as he called it) to stay at his site and that availablity should be no problem on our suggested date.  He did remind me that it was a family site so we have to be on our best behaviour!!!

Price is €10 per tent plus €6 per adult.  Showers take €1.

They are situated approx 7 miles from the base of Carrauntoohil, which would work well as we would only be using them for the first night, with wild camping the second night.  I will more than likely be bivviing the second night and just bring a tent for the first night which I will leave in the car.

If we are wanting to keep the cost down a bit then we could share a couple of tents for the first night i.e. 1 tent, three people €28, three tents three people €48.  

I have a decent size tent which would hold three comfortably, but we can go over the finer details closer to the time.

Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: LennyJ1 on August 02, 2010
no harm but I dont mind paying a little extra to have my own tent. 'Its not you it me'
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: RedLeader on August 02, 2010
I could be tempted by this  :o
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: suspectmonkey on August 02, 2010
I'd quite fancy this, but its the same weekend I'm off to Edinburgh.  Its on my list though so hopefully wont be too far behind you guys :)
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: LennyJ1 on August 03, 2010
What route are you thinking about?

Caher (Coomloughra) Route looks interesting on the ridge http://www.kerrymountainrescue.ie/routes/caher_printable.html (http://www.kerrymountainrescue.ie/routes/caher_printable.html)

Devil's Ladder Route looks more safer but not so exciting. http://www.kerrymountainrescue.ie/routes/devils_ladder_printable.html (http://www.kerrymountainrescue.ie/routes/devils_ladder_printable.html)

what do you think?
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: Dowser on August 03, 2010
What route are you thinking about?

Caher (Coomloughra) Route looks interesting on the ridge http://www.kerrymountainrescue.ie/routes/caher_printable.html (http://www.kerrymountainrescue.ie/routes/caher_printable.html)

Devil's Ladder Route looks more safer but not so exciting. http://www.kerrymountainrescue.ie/routes/devils_ladder_printable.html (http://www.kerrymountainrescue.ie/routes/devils_ladder_printable.html)

what do you think?

I've only just this minute got my hands on the Ordnance Survey of Ireland Maps.  To tackle Carrauntoohil and Beenkeragh we need Sheet 78 and for Mount Brandon it's Sheet 70 of the OSi Discovery Series.

Waterstone's in Belfast is doing "Buy one get one half price" on OS Maps right now.  Normally £8.25 each.

The links you posted above are great... and when I get a chance at lunchtime I'll have a good read of them.  At first glance it looks like careful planning will be called for.  It really isn't like taking a stroll up Donard :o

I always like bit of a challenge... I would like to try and do both routes if we can work it that way.  One route up, one route down.  It's just a matter of deciding in which order to do it and are we experienced enough to do it safely.  I really don't want to be the first person on NI Wild to be Air-lifted off a mountain.

I will definately be attending this event on the 9th: http://www.ni-wild.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=1308.0 to brush up on my navigation skills.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: chris on August 03, 2010
I'm down to work that weekend but I'll try and call in a few favours and see if I can get it off. I'll prob go the howling ridge route tho.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: MG1 on August 04, 2010
I'm up for Howling ridge ;D
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: LennyJ1 on August 04, 2010
I'm up for Howling ridge ;D

I cant find this. Is that a joke?
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: LennyJ1 on August 04, 2010
I'm up for Howling ridge ;D

I cant find this. Is that a joke?

found it, http://irishmountaineeringclub.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=347&Itemid=89 (http://irishmountaineeringclub.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=347&Itemid=89) flip me
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: Dowser on August 04, 2010
Quote

http://irishmountaineeringclub.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=347&Itemid=89 (http://irishmountaineeringclub.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=347&Itemid=89) flip me

"Flip Me"  Under statement of the year. 

Heh... I have no actual climbing experience or equipment so I don't think I'll be going up the Howling Ridge.

This picture here, which is only the first pitch apparently, says it all for me.  :-\

Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: LennyJ1 on August 04, 2010
Quote

http://irishmountaineeringclub.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=347&Itemid=89 (http://irishmountaineeringclub.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=347&Itemid=89) flip me

"Flip Me"  Under statement of the year. 

Heh... I have no actual climbing experience or equipment so I don't think I'll be going up the Howling Ridge.

This picture here, which is only the first pitch apparently, says it all for me.  :-\



I have some gear but I havent climbed in about 3 years. Would love to give this ago some time though.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: Dowser on August 04, 2010
I'll not rule out the Howling Ridge immediately, I'm usually game for anything, but I guess we might have two teams from NI Wild taking seperate routes.  ::)
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: MG1 on August 05, 2010
who all is up for this trip?
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: NeilB on August 05, 2010
I'm up for this guys but it won't be until September can't leave this baby so soon, there are 3 routes for this guys which 1 are u going for? We were thinking of the caher with wild camp at the lake just below the ridge line
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: LennyJ1 on August 05, 2010
I have booked the 23 Aug off work to recove for this so caher with wild camp at the lake just below the ridge line would be good for me.

Are we still going for the 21st and 22nd?

I have a car as well
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: Dowser on August 05, 2010
I'm definately going.  I'm off work Friday 20th thru to Monday 23rd inclusive.

I have recently lost access to my Wife's X-Trail but I am still happy to drive my own car which will still carry 4 plus gear comfortably.  I do have to warn you though it's a gas guzzler so petrol costs will be a tad higher.

Could everybody keen to go please post here asap and I'll edit my original post with a list of definates.  Also include the time that you are available from on the Friday for setting off, and if you are flexible for the Monday bearing in mind it is a 7 hours drive, not including rest breaks etc.

 
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: LennyJ1 on August 05, 2010
I am as you know but if you want I have a fuel ecconmical Pug 207 so can take 4 with gear aswell.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: MG1 on August 05, 2010
I'm def in for this. Not sure of leaving time yet i'm waiting on conformation from the boss as to when i'm free.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: chris on August 06, 2010
Got my shifts changed so I'm good to go. Who all's doing the howling ridge?
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: MG1 on August 06, 2010
I'm for the ridge ;D
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: LennyJ1 on August 06, 2010
I'm for the ridge ;D

I would not. maybe Caher for me.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: MG1 on August 06, 2010
Isn't Caher the 3rd highest?  Is it in the Reeks as well?
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: Dowser on August 06, 2010
Got my shifts changed so I'm good to go. Who all's doing the howling ridge?

I'm going to do an alternative route with Lenny.  Still to be decided.  I'm meeting with Lenny on Monday night and will be bringing my maps of the area.  Hopefully we can decide on a route then.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: Dowser on August 06, 2010
I'm for the ridge ;D

MG1, Have you climbed before?
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: MG1 on August 06, 2010
i've done a bit indoors and out. I've all the gear i need for seconding but couldn't lead anything.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: Dowser on August 06, 2010
i've done a bit indoors and out. I've all the gear i need for seconding but couldn't lead anything.

Nice one... I wouldn't have a clue were to start and haven't got a scrap of gear (Cause it's not available in Camo).  Think I'll be taking the tourist route, if there is such a thing on Carrauntoohil.  If I get to the top before you and Chris, which I would like to think I will, I'll be able to get some cracking photos of your accent looking down.  :)
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: MG1 on August 06, 2010
Hopefully we get good weather for good pics. Were are planning on camping?
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: Dowser on August 06, 2010
Hopefully we get good weather for good pics. Were are planning on camping?

I'm planning on camping too.  Probably Bivvi again like last week on Chimney Rock.  I haven't had a minute to really think about places to wild camp or anything yet.  I'm also happy to wild camp the whole thing rather than starting in Fossa like originally suggested.  Depends on what time we get down on the Friday night. We'll have 7 hours to work out routes and finer details on the journey down if nothing is decided before hand.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: MG1 on August 06, 2010
Summit bivvy?
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: Dowser on August 06, 2010
Summit bivvy?

I'll go with the flow.  Summit Bivvy... Why not?  :)
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: LennyJ1 on August 06, 2010
Is it not pure rock ontop of Carrauntoohil?
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: Dowser on August 06, 2010
Is it not pure rock ontop of Carrauntoohil?

There's sometimes snow too!!!
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: RedLeader on August 06, 2010
The big cross is a bit worrying  :o ::)

Is it not pure rock ontop of Carrauntoohil?

There's sometimes snow too!!!
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: chris on August 07, 2010
Friday night? I thought this was a sat sun thing... I'm in work untill 6 on Friday.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: LennyJ1 on August 08, 2010
Friday night? I thought this was a sat sun thing... I'm in work untill 6 on Friday.

I think i finish @ 5. Will be going down after work if you want a lift.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: MG1 on August 08, 2010
Friday night? I thought this was a sat sun thing... I'm in work untill 6 on Friday.

We,re leaving early sat morning.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: LennyJ1 on August 08, 2010
We really need to pin some times and dates into this.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: chris on August 08, 2010
Hopefully we get good weather for good pics. Were are planning on camping?

I'm planning on camping too.  Probably Bivvi again like last week on Chimney Rock.  I haven't had a minute to really think about places to wild camp or anything yet.  I'm also happy to wild camp the whole thing rather than starting in Fossa like originally suggested. 
Friday night? I thought this was a sat sun thing... I'm in work untill 6 on Friday.

We,re leaving early sat morning.
. We'll have 7 hours to work out routes and finer details on the journey down if nothing is decided before hand.

Well confussed now! Is there two groups going at seperate times?
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: Dowser on August 09, 2010
Did this expedition ever take place: http://www.ni-wild.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=1075.0

I'm looking for a change of scenary and think a trip to Co Kerry is called for..!  It's bit of a drive just for an overnighter so I would like to make a weekend out of it.  There's three peaks just asking to be conquered, all of which are higher than Donard:
Well confussed now! Is there two groups going at seperate times?

I think that is the way it has turned out Chris.  Yourself and MG1 are only free on Saturday and Sunday and want to do the Howling Ridge which requires climbing experience.

As I said in my original post, I am going to Kerry and will be making a weekend out of it.  It is going to take well over 7hrs to get there so I do not want to be driving down on Saturday Morning and coming back on Sunday.  I have booked Friday 20th to Mon 23rd inclusive off work to do this trip.  

I am driving down to Kerry on Friday morning and will be wild camping at the base of the Reeks on Friday evening so that I can tackle Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Cahar on Saturday with another wild camp/bivvi Saturday Evening.  I cannot do the Howling Ridge because I have no climbing experience or equipment.

On Sunday I am driving west to Dingle to do Mount Brandon with another wild camp on Sunday evening then driving back to Belfast on Monday morning.



Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: chris on August 09, 2010
Got ya. Thats cool then, So is it just the two of us for the howling ridge? Or is anyone else comming along? Its only a grade three scramble although I think one pitch is graded Vdiff.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: Dowser on August 09, 2010
Got ya. Thats cool then, So is it just the two of us for the howling ridge? Or is anyone else comming along? Its only a grade three scramble although I think one pitch is graded Vdiff.

Here's a good video on YouTube which gives you an idea of experience required.  I'm also gonna be carrying a 9kg Ruck:


Excuse the Narration... Think the guy fancies himself as the next Joyce or Yeats
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: chris on August 09, 2010
Yeah saw that before, looks the ticket. It'll be easy as long as the weather's good. Speaking of which have we got a long range forecast?
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: MG1 on August 11, 2010
Looks like its just going to be the 4 of us.

Are we going to arrange to meet on the summit or something?
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: Dowser on August 11, 2010
Looks like its just going to be the 4 of us.

Are we going to arrange to meet on the summit or something?

Defo... Lenny and I are leaving Belfast on Friday evening at 6.30pm and wild camping somewhere at the base of Carrauntoohil.  We're gonna do Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Cahar, via the Cahar Ridge at some point, then wild camping again on the Saturday night.  I would love to summit bivvi on Carrauntoohil but that might be a stupid idea for various reasons i.e. weather conditions, small summit, other people knocking about.  Will play it by ear when we get up there.

Sunday we are heading down to Mount Brandon in Dingle for a quick up and down then hitting the road for Belfast.  Probably arriving back in Belfast in the early hours of Monday morn.

How does that look compared to your route/plans.  We really have to try and meet up at some point, and the summit would be a great spot for a few NI Wild photos.

Let me know your plans and we'll get something sorted.  :)
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: RedLeader on August 11, 2010
Maybe organising radios in advance might be useful. No guarantee of mobile reception down there.

Looks like its just going to be the 4 of us.

Are we going to arrange to meet on the summit or something?

Defo... Lenny and I are leaving Belfast on Friday evening at 6.30pm and wild camping somewhere at the base of Carrauntoohil.  We're gonna do Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Cahar, via the Cahar Ridge at some point, then wild camping again on the Saturday night.  I would love to summit bivvi on Carrauntoohil but that might be a stupid idea for various reasons i.e. weather conditions, small summit, other people knocking about.  Will play it by ear when we get up there.

Sunday we are heading down to Mount Brandon in Dingle for a quick up and down then hitting the road for Belfast.  Probably arriving back in Belfast in the early hours of Monday morn.

How does that look compared to your route/plans.  We really have to try and meet up at some point, and the summit would be a great spot for a few NI Wild photos.

Let me know your plans and we'll get something sorted.  :)
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: Dowser on August 11, 2010
Maybe organising radios in advance might be useful. No guarantee of mobile reception down there.


Good idea Jonno...  Chris... I could throw one into Cotswolds for you and MG1.  Would that suit you ok?  I need to call in to get some gear soon anyway (Primus Power Fuel).

Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: suspectmonkey on August 11, 2010
I need to call in to get some gear soon anyway (Primus Power Fuel).

For the Zippo or the stove? :P :D
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: RedLeader on August 11, 2010
To drink ;)

I need to call in to get some gear soon anyway (Primus Power Fuel).

For the Zippo or the stove? :P :D
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: Dowser on August 11, 2010
To drink ;)

I need to call in to get some gear soon anyway (Primus Power Fuel).

For the Zippo or the stove? :P :D

A multifuel stove... and multi purpose fuel... What more could you ask for??? ;D
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: chris on August 11, 2010
Maybe organising radios in advance might be useful. No guarantee of mobile reception down there.


Good idea Jonno...  Chris... I could throw one into Cotswolds for you and MG1.  Would that suit you ok?  I need to call in to get some gear soon anyway (Primus Power Fuel).



Yeah mate let me know when your planning on going.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: Dowser on August 12, 2010

Yeah mate let me know when your planning on going.

I'll probably call in Monday or Tuesday.  PM me and let me know if your working either of those days.  If your not I can leave the radio in an envelope for you behind the desk.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: MG1 on August 12, 2010
Looks like its just going to be the 4 of us.

Are we going to arrange to meet on the summit or something?

Defo... Lenny and I are leaving Belfast on Friday evening at 6.30pm and wild camping somewhere at the base of Carrauntoohil.  We're gonna do Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Cahar, via the Cahar Ridge at some point, then wild camping again on the Saturday night.  I would love to summit bivvi on Carrauntoohil but that might be a stupid idea for various reasons i.e. weather conditions, small summit, other people knocking about.  Will play it by ear when we get up there.

Sunday we are heading down to Mount Brandon in Dingle for a quick up and down then hitting the road for Belfast.  Probably arriving back in Belfast in the early hours of Monday morn.

How does that look compared to your route/plans.  We really have to try and meet up at some point, and the summit would be a great spot for a few NI Wild photos.

Let me know your plans and we'll get something sorted.  :)
We don't really have a plan yet. All that we have decided is the route up the hill. We'll have to meet you guys and have a wee drop/bottle of Lurgan champagne ;D
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: Dowser on August 12, 2010
We don't really have a plan yet. All that we have decided is the route up the hill. We'll have to meet you guys and have a wee drop/bottle of Lurgan champagne ;D

If we're at the top before you I'll crack the seal on one and let the scent direct you to the summit.  I'm dropping a Radio round to Chris as backup in case the scent don't travel so well. ;D
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: MG1 on August 13, 2010
http://wiki.climbing.ie/index.php/Winter_Climbing_around_Carrauntoohil (http://wiki.climbing.ie/index.php/Winter_Climbing_around_Carrauntoohil)

Here s a topo of Carrauntoohil no 7 is the Howling ridge, it starts from the heavenly gates.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: 666_pack on August 13, 2010
fair play to you satin! Looks like it will be an epic ;D
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: Dowser on August 13, 2010
Google Earth shows some excellent detail in 3D... Here's some images I saved from different angles but give it a go yourself and you can zoom in from any angle.  It's good to get a feel for the place.

(http://i.imgur.com/GtAeu.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/LhQr3.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/18HdW.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/4EukK.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/cd9bb.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/CW46e.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/KynRE.jpg)

 8)
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: RedLeader on August 13, 2010
They look tiny, like you could just step over them  ::)
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: Dowser on August 13, 2010
They look tiny, like you could just step over them  ::)

That's what I was thinking... Definately don't look as challenging here as they have done in other photo's I've seen.  Should just be a wee dander from peak to peak  ;)
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: MG1 on August 13, 2010
Have you guys decided were you s are camping on the friday night, Theres a good chance we'll be down that night?
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: Dowser on August 13, 2010
Have you guys decided were you s are camping on the friday night, Theres a good chance we'll be down that night?

We are thinking about parking at Cronins Yard (http://www.kerrymountainrescue.ie/routes/index.html) and wild camping somewhere between there and the base of Carrauntoohil.  We're not gonna be down till late so it wont be too far up the track.

We're leaving Belfast on Friday at 18:30 and will be back in Belfast early hours Monday morning (Roughly 2am).  If these times worked for you and Chris we should all try and head down in the one car.  I would need to check with Lenny if we would all fit in his 207, or I might be able to get my hands on something a bit roomier.  My own car at 20MPG would cost a small fortune.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: MG1 on August 13, 2010
We'll prob have to take a second car mate i need to be back in Portadown mid afternoon. I think we're planning on parking at Cronins yard aswell.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: Dowser on August 13, 2010
We'll prob have to take a second car mate i need to be back in Portadown mid afternoon. I think we're planning on parking at Cronins yard aswell.

No worries... You'll have a Radio and we'll be keeping ours turned on and tuned in to Channel 6 at all times.  Give us a shout when you get there and we'll let you know where we're pitched.

You've put me in the notion for some Lurgan Champagne... I'm defo gonna have a half bottle for the summit.  Nothing like celebrating an achievement in style.  :P
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: MG1 on August 13, 2010
If things work out we should meet on the summit. We could finish the route wth you guys.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: Dowser on August 13, 2010
If things work out we should meet on the summit. We could finish the route wth you guys.

Sounds like a plan...  8)
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: LennyJ1 on August 13, 2010
If things work out we should meet on the summit. We could finish the route wth you guys.

That would be good.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: chris on August 13, 2010
roll with Monday dowser Any time between 10 and 6.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: MG1 on August 17, 2010
So guys are you all sorted for Kerry?
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: LennyJ1 on August 17, 2010
Nope not yet, gonna start packing tonight and finish tomorrow.

Gonna get a early night on thursday.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: chris on August 18, 2010
Haven't even thought about it! Think I may need to get boots as well.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: MG1 on August 18, 2010
Are you doing the climb in rock shoes?
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: 666_pack on August 18, 2010
I'm in for the hikers route. Hope you guys mind. ::)
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: MikeD on August 18, 2010
I'd like to go too, I just might just be able to swing it.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: 666_pack on August 18, 2010
go on you know you want too!
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: chris on August 18, 2010
Are you doing the climb in rock shoes?

Nah Its just a scramble should be fine in boots. On the other hand might be nice to have the stickies in the bag just incase.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: MG1 on August 18, 2010
Yeah i'll prob through them in anyway and climb in my trail shoes.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: LennyJ1 on August 18, 2010
666 and mikeD how you planning on getting to Kerry?
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: chris on August 19, 2010
I'm in for the hikers route. Hope you guys mind. ::)

Good lad, knew you wouldn't say no!
On a side note, anyone done a weather check? I looked at accu weather and its saying 2% chance of rain in the morning and giving 25% from lunch time on..pretty good odds (For sat 21st, furthest I can see)
However "Weather forecastmap" is saying rain all day fri, sat and sun!
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: Dowser on August 19, 2010
Looks like it could be a damp one according to the BBC  :(

http://news.bbc.co.uk/weather/forecast/4200
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: LennyJ1 on August 19, 2010
Looks like it could be a damp one according to the BBC  :(

http://news.bbc.co.uk/weather/forecast/4200

Looks like we picked the best weekend.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: 666_pack on August 19, 2010
666 and mikeD how you planning on getting to Kerry?

I'm in the car with MG1 and chris.

Don't worry about the weather because............if it's not raining, it's not training ;D
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: MikeD on August 19, 2010
Still unsure, but, I think I'm driving down, sharing the car with a few friends who are gonna do stuff in Kerry for the weekend....
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: MikeD on August 19, 2010
So, MG and 666, are you not leaving until Saturday morning ?

I half thought, we'd all be there late late friday night, ready to start Saturday, then walk up a mountain on saturday, camp on top, then do another decent days walking on sunday, before heading to come home about 6pm kerry time!

What are your plans ?
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: LennyJ1 on August 19, 2010
666 and mikeD how you planning on getting to Kerry?

I'm in the car with MG1 and chris.

Don't worry about the weather because............if it's not raining, it's not training ;D

Hey 666, If you are walking and leaving with them guys you will have to catch us up as they are leaving saturday morning and we will already be on the hill by then.

I have room in my car for one more if you like.

Lenny
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: suspectmonkey on August 19, 2010
All the best for the weekend fellas!  Make sure someone takes some photos as well :)
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: MikeD on August 19, 2010
Or just in general, what are your plans Lenny - you coming back on Sunday or Monday ?
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: LennyJ1 on August 19, 2010
I will be planing on driving back to belfast late sunday.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: MikeD on August 19, 2010
And then, you're planning on spending all day Saturday and Sunday wandering them there hills ?
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: 666_pack on August 19, 2010
666 and mikeD how you planning on getting to Kerry?

I'm in the car with MG1 and chris.

Don't worry about the weather because............if it's not raining, it's not training ;D

Hey 666, If you are walking and leaving with them guys you will have to catch us up as they are leaving saturday morning and we will already be on the hill by then.

I have room in my car for one more if you like.

Lenny

no we're leavin friday evening and meeting you and andy when we get there. I'll be hitting the hills with you bright and early sat morning. hoping for an alpine start so hope you don't want a lie in ;D
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: RedLeader on August 19, 2010
Surely you mean Alpen start  ::)

666 and mikeD how you planning on getting to Kerry?

I'm in the car with MG1 and chris.

Don't worry about the weather because............if it's not raining, it's not training ;D

Hey 666, If you are walking and leaving with them guys you will have to catch us up as they are leaving saturday morning and we will already be on the hill by then.

I have room in my car for one more if you like.

Lenny

no we're leavin friday evening and meeting you and andy when we get there. I'll be hitting the hills with you bright and early sat morning. hoping for an alpine start so hope you don't want a lie in ;D
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: 666_pack on August 19, 2010
ha ha.
I'm back on the cous cous for breakie anyway and alpen really does look like the bottom of a rabbit hutch.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: Dowser on August 19, 2010
I'm gonna be bivving this one... What are you all doing? 

666 Pack... Do I need to bring a cable tie (0.5g) for the zips on your bivvi bag if I'm wanting a lie in!!! :D
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: LennyJ1 on August 19, 2010
I'm gonna be bivving this one... What are you all doing? 

666 Pack... Do I need to bring a cable tie (0.5g) for the zips on your bivvi bag if I'm wanting a lie in!!! :D

lol

I will be in my gerlet solo
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: MikeD on August 19, 2010
tarp & bivy...... I need a walking stick tho to give the tarp something to raise up with.....

Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: Dowser on August 19, 2010
tarp & bivy...... I need a walking stick tho to give the tarp something to raise up with.....

I have a spare walking pole.  If you want me to bring it to Kerry with me let me know.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: MikeD on August 19, 2010
Yes plz - save me buying one - as I think i'll need to buy a really strong one - as my last ones - broke.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: Dowser on August 19, 2010
Yes plz - save me buying one - as I think i'll need to buy a really strong one - as my last ones - broke.

No worries... Consider it done.  :)
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: 666_pack on August 19, 2010
I'm gonna be bivving this one... What are you all doing? 

666 Pack... Do I need to bring a cable tie (0.5g) for the zips on your bivvi bag if I'm wanting a lie in!!! :D

yep, But don't even joke about that. I'll be sleepin with a blade just in case ;)
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: 666_pack on August 19, 2010
(http://www.netweather.tv/gfsimages/gfs.20100819/06/54/ukprec.png)

looks ok to me.

(http://www.netweather.tv/gfsimages/gfs.20100819/06/63/ukprec.png)

bit of light rain but nothing major.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: MG1 on August 19, 2010
This is the last pitch of Howling ridge over the pinnacles.


http://www.google.co.uk/imgres?imgurl=http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_rKfHh5OWd7s/TAPEVfowePI/AAAAAAAABBo/TdlPqog273Y/s1600/86%2Bhag%27s%2Bglen%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bpinnacles.JPG&imgrefurl=http://outdoorsireland.blogspot.com/2010/05/howling-ridge.html&usg=__7rqulxg-u-hYD8ra-c6trA9OtAQ=&h=1200&w=1600&sz=119&hl=en&start=0&sig2=af9sx2x7xS9ewAUMZGMhew&zoom=1&tbnid=aNcvFyRcZCMGvM:&tbnh=122&tbnw=156&ei=KIdtTPeiB4qQjAfb_-z7CA&prev=/images%3Fq%3DHowling%2Bridge%26um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26client%3Dfirefox-a%26sa%3DN%26rls%3Dorg.mozilla:en-GB:official%26biw%3D1016%26bih%3D545%26tbs%3Disch:1&um=1&itbs=1&iact=rc&dur=569&oei=2YZtTP2UDM2NjAeTwt36CA&esq=9&page=1&ndsp=15&ved=1t:429,r:11,s:0&tx=74&ty=69 (http://www.google.co.uk/imgres?imgurl=http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_rKfHh5OWd7s/TAPEVfowePI/AAAAAAAABBo/TdlPqog273Y/s1600/86%2Bhag%27s%2Bglen%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bpinnacles.JPG&imgrefurl=http://outdoorsireland.blogspot.com/2010/05/howling-ridge.html&usg=__7rqulxg-u-hYD8ra-c6trA9OtAQ=&h=1200&w=1600&sz=119&hl=en&start=0&sig2=af9sx2x7xS9ewAUMZGMhew&zoom=1&tbnid=aNcvFyRcZCMGvM:&tbnh=122&tbnw=156&ei=KIdtTPeiB4qQjAfb_-z7CA&prev=/images%3Fq%3DHowling%2Bridge%26um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26client%3Dfirefox-a%26sa%3DN%26rls%3Dorg.mozilla:en-GB:official%26biw%3D1016%26bih%3D545%26tbs%3Disch:1&um=1&itbs=1&iact=rc&dur=569&oei=2YZtTP2UDM2NjAeTwt36CA&esq=9&page=1&ndsp=15&ved=1t:429,r:11,s:0&tx=74&ty=69)
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: chris on August 20, 2010
Cant wait!
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: MG1 on August 20, 2010
Guys are you s changing any money or just using the atm down there?
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: Dowser on August 20, 2010
Just the ATM for me.  ::)
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: LennyJ1 on August 20, 2010
Guys are you s changing any money or just using the atm down there?

I have got euro for the tolls.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: MikeD on August 20, 2010
So, are we going to meet up at Cronins Yard - about 2am ?  Shall we stay in the car park until the others arrive, or try to find somewhere to camp, and leave a light on so the late comers - can see me - us - u - whoever ?

Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: Dowser on August 20, 2010
So, are we going to meet up at Cronins Yard - about 2am ?  Shall we stay in the car park until the others arrive, or try to find somewhere to camp, and leave a light on so the late comers - can see me - us - u - whoever ?

I am meeting Lenny at his house and we are leaving Belfast at roughly 6.30pm. MikeD... I will PM you his address and if you want to meet us there about 6pm your more than welcome to follow us down.

I can't see anybody being at Cronins yard much before 2am and we'll all hang about there till everybody shows.  I have most peoples phone numbers so I'll call both MikeD and 666pack when we arrive.  If it looks like anyone is running behind badly, and wont make it till 4am then give me a call on my mobile and let me know.  That being the case we would head on up the trail and set up camp and the late comers can join us when they can.

Really looking forward to this one... See you all at Cronin's if not before!
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: RedLeader on August 20, 2010
Enjoy chaps, it should be a blinder (or you might go blind if you drink too much Bucky on the summit)
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: LennyJ1 on August 20, 2010
Have a great idea for a route.

Will need to look at a map and guide book but will chat later
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: RedLeader on August 20, 2010
Dowser asked me to remind you chaps that it's channel 6 on the radios.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: 666_pack on August 20, 2010
channel 666 ;D

I love mountains me.

(http://www.killarneylake.com/images/killarney-mountains-hags.jpg)

(http://blogs.ireland.com/thetravelblog/files/2010/07/mountain_tops_carrauntoohil.jpg)

http://www.google.co.uk/imgres?imgurl=http://blogs.ireland.com/thetravelblog/files/2010/07/mountain_tops_carrauntoohil.jpg&imgrefurl=http://blogs.ireland.com/thetravelblog/2010/07/12/my-trip-to-carrauntoohil-by-paul-kay/&usg=__CwKSlw9V6mSBPY7EgiAlx8MPH9Q=&h=375&w=500&sz=146&hl=en&start=16&zoom=1&tbnid=GvnnlD6hG8LZDM:&tbnh=98&tbnw=130&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dcarrauntoohil%2Bmountain%26hl%3Den%26gbv%3D2%26tbs%3Disch:1&itbs=1
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: RedLeader on August 21, 2010
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4134/4912988438_fe129eefb7.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/51482922@N00/4912988438/)
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: Dowser on August 22, 2010
I'm on Top of the World Ma (Well Ireland anyway)

More pics tomorrow... Going to my bed now... I'm knackered after an Awesome Weekend... It was an Epic!!!  ;D

(http://imgur.com/fvx4Y.jpg)

 
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: LennyJ1 on August 22, 2010
I'm on Top of the World Ma (Well Ireland anyway)

More pics tomorrow... Going to my bed now... I'm knackered after an Awesome Weekend... It was an Epic!!!  ;D

(http://imgur.com/fvx4Y.jpg)

 

Photoshop??????????
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: Dowser on August 22, 2010


Photoshop??????????

It tooks us nearly 45mins setting the camera up on remote and getting up on that cross!!!
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: Dowser on August 23, 2010
Here's a few more pics of Kerry...  ;D

(http://i.imgur.com/Ut8hH.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/76zgs.jpg)

(http://hhttp://i.imgur.com/RUe9k.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/Bq3Rw.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/HW7st.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/2Qt8z.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/30qI4.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/elLVi.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/Z3c55.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/dFjb9.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/gP33A.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/yR8xH.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/nvmK8.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/jKz9I.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/hilOM.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/k9GI5.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/oSk4X.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/RFQsV.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/r4Fie.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/32JCz.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/c5KLb.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/gYPAe.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/GOugR.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/5MDbA.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/GFNlc.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/LiKf6.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/U8oVN.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/BMIJY.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/wAErg.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/ZpEej.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/ACJcM.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/ACJcM.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/oP6AG.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/BAeof.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/xdQqh.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/t1eVo.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/s6j9S.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/z1RY1.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/Wvdvs.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/S3g7k.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/edF6s.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/TwGaX.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/a01e6.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/92u3V.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/BiFKg.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/V3Ny3.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/pNZf4.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/8dg32.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/959yI.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/MKQ6d.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/1JTsb.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/GvFQF.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/V7aDd.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/Umadp.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/DPpSA.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/f9AAZ.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/KzLXz.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/GoeGC.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/Uq6zS.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/GezCd.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/4VWVb.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/R8OR4.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/UWFKr.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/37wGE.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/9g6of.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/JA14N.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/1ECWk.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/JD30M.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/Bp1cC.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/phrPX.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/2kqWN.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/zgouc.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/PUJDT.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/0J5y2.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/DdHyM.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/IrkM2.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/Mt9RK.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/eXUwd.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/CK3fw.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/yGbja.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/fPDpl.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/frsu2.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/v8ZDJ.jpg)

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(http://i.imgur.com/BYP0C.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/KRmrV.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/5F0JT.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/pSEEY.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/xyIem.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/wGRW4.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/0MCma.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/azSu8.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/KMFgA.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/3WWab.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/Y1QrH.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/x7gyM.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/Ti8KF.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/LQBfo.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/ZJtvk.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/fy6Ef.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/IaASJ.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/7MgLq.jpg)


Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: MikeD on August 23, 2010
excellent photos dude - thanks for looking out for me up there !
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: Dowser on August 23, 2010
excellent photos dude - thanks for looking out for me up there !

No worries Mike..! It was a bit hairy at times  :P  Great having you along.  It'll be a while before I stop talking about this one.

Do me a favour mate... PM me your home address and I'm gonna post you out a USB Pen for your photos... I didn't take as many as normal because my camera was stuck in the ruck for most of the ridge.  Can't wait to see yours.

 8)
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: chris on August 23, 2010
Crackin' trip lads good to meet you as well lenny. The Howling Ridge was awesome, even had a few epics with a run away gas canister and a good bit of rock fall to keep us on our toes! Stuck my piccies up on flickr if you fancy a look.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/45310786@N02/sets/72157624663719809/ (http://www.flickr.com/photos/45310786@N02/sets/72157624663719809/)
And what do you mean photoshop!? What makes you think I could climb the whole ridge and then struggle to climb a 15ft cross!
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: LennyJ1 on August 23, 2010
Only Messing Chris, Was good to meet you to & everyone else.

666_Pack I still have your water bottle, will return it asap.

Had a really great weekend guys, here are some of my photos.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/lennyj1/sets/72157624788935258/with/4917263877/ (http://www.flickr.com/photos/lennyj1/sets/72157624788935258/with/4917263877/)
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: ChuckMcB on August 23, 2010
Very well done guys.

So how did you get up there....shimmy up the 'pole' or ropes through the end of the cross bar?

ps. You sure that's the real Dowser? He seems to be 'with shirt'? Was it that cold?
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: 666_pack on August 23, 2010
(http://i.imgur.com/viBCY.jpg)
see what happens when summit fever and buckfast combine. ;)

Grat trip guys hope to see you all soon.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: NeilB on August 23, 2010
There was something missing in the photos until I seen the bottles of buckfast then it was a proper ni wild trip!

Good going guys and great pics looks like good time had by all, Chris/Gareth what was the climb like on the ridge?
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: MG1 on August 23, 2010
The ridge was great but the rock was very loose,other than that its a great climb.

Great time guys ;D
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: Dowser on August 23, 2010
Very well done guys.

So how did you get up there....shimmy up the 'pole' or ropes through the end of the cross bar?

ps. You sure that's the real Dowser? He seems to be 'with shirt'? Was it that cold?

'Bout ye Chuck...  We created a Bear Grylls rope ladder for getting up and ditched it for the photo.  Shimmied back down... Not a pleasant experience for the old under crackers I have to say!!!

I can assure you it was the real Dowser... I actually put my shirt on for most of the photos... We're trying to attract new members to the site not scare them away... I'm sure MikeD will have a few shots of the Naked Hiker on his camera, but they will be posted in the "XXX Photo Section" of the site for Gold Members only  ;D
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: suspectmonkey on August 24, 2010
That looks like an awesome trip guys!  Great photos too Dowser, love the panos!

So what was the actual route you guys took in the end?
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: 666_pack on August 24, 2010
That looks like an awesome trip guys!  Great photos too Dowser, love the panos!

So what was the actual route you guys took in the end?

Me, Dowser and mikeD took this bad boy
(http://www1.clikpic.com/johnfinn/images/IMG_3108_1.jpg)
the Cruach Mhór Ridge on our way to Carrauntoohil. I had to find a proper photo of it as while we were on it there was  bloody hail stones and zero Viz.

Well done guys by the way. We'll never look at the Mournes in the same way.
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: 666_pack on August 24, 2010
our route(only we went the other way round and followed the ridge to the devils ladder and the on to Carrauntoohil)
(http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/images/tile/2009/0117/1232059655264_1.jpg)
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: suspectmonkey on August 24, 2010
Me, Dowser and mikeD took this bab boy the Cruach Mhór Ridge on our way to Carrauntoohil. I had to find a proper photo of it as while we were on it there was  bloody hail stones and zero Viz.

Well done guys by the way. We'll never look at the Mournes in the same way.

That's an impressive looking ridge!  I have to say, I'm sure I'm not alone in under estimating how good some of the Irish mountains are, because looking at the photos they seem to be up there with the best that Scotland and Wales have to offer!
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: LennyJ1 on August 24, 2010
Me, Dowser and mikeD took this bab boy the Cruach Mhór Ridge on our way to Carrauntoohil. I had to find a proper photo of it as while we were on it there was  bloody hail stones and zero Viz.

Well done guys by the way. We'll never look at the Mournes in the same way.

That's an impressive looking ridge!  I have to say, I'm sure I'm not alone in under estimating how good some of the Irish mountains are, because looking at the photos they seem to be up there with the best that Scotland and Wales have to offer!

They are. Not as mass as scotland but overwhelming
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: twentyclicks on August 25, 2010
Fantastic lads!  Climbing, bivvy & buckfast... can't be bad to that  ;)
Title: Re: Carrauntoohil, Beenkeragh and Mount Brandon (Co Kerry)
Post by: Matthew on August 25, 2010
looks like a good time was had by all. Good work lads