Day 1 - Fort William to Lairig Leacach Bothy

26.2 km, 2880m ascent

This first section comproses the start of Ramsay's Round - the classic 24 hour running challenge of Scotland.  Once the initial slog up Ben Nevis has been endured and the crowds left behind, the rest is a rocky high level traverse of great quality - a start with a bang!

From the railway station, follow the main road North West until you reach the Glen Nevis roundabout. Go a little further along the main road over the bridge, then take the first right to Claggan.  Continue along the road until it ends and the Ben Nevis path begins.  Follow the large and obvious path to the summit of Ben Nevis. It is possible to make a few short-cuts where large zig zags add to the distance, but be aware that this involves rough and loose scree, Once on the top of Britain's highest peak you will leave the crowds behind, not to re-encounter them until you hit the West Highland Way days later.  

Carn Mor Dearg Arete

The route down to the Carn Mor Dearg arete lies to the right of the ridge line (continuing on the ridge takes you to the top of North East Buttress). This is bouldery and there is no path as such. Conitnue over the arete and descend the East Ridge of Carn Mor Dearg which is obvious at first but rather broadens out toward the bottom.Take care on this final section trending left. The next ascent is steep and broken, although a small path does exist.From the cairn at the top of the steep slope, follow the path left to reach the summit of Aonach Mor. You can leave your rucksack for the short out-and-back if you fancy giving your shoulders a rest. 

Continue to Aonach Beag and descend the ridge to Stob Coire Bhealaich. The best way is to go further down the ridge toward Sgurr Coinneach Beag. This is steep at the top, but a little trod avoids any difficulties.  From here, just follow the ridge over the succession of scree-laden peaks that is the Grey Corries. These form a regal highway that twists and turns its way North East.  Keep going to the cone of the final Munro top, then descend the curving South East ridge to the corrie.  Notice the bare slabs in Coire Claurigh as you make your way down rough ground to the bothy.