Beenkeragh Ridge

K09

Hi,

I am hoping to do the Coomloughra Horseshoe soon. Have heard that this ridge is pretty intimidating! Is this what is known as 'the bones' of the reeks?

How bad is it actually? I was ok on the Caher ridge but not sure how I would be on the Beenkeragh one.

Thanks.

pats87

The caher ridge is not really a ridge at all, yes it is technically a ridge, but it's basicly a footpath. I mean that it doesn't even compare to what would be referred to as a ridge walk. So comparing them is like comparing climbing Mangerton and K2. If you get what I mean? Obviously not as drastic as that though!! But honestly they are in 2 different worlds.

Anyway, ya the ridge can be intimidating in high winds, especially if your not that confident. There's alot of route finding required in places, switching from east to west sides of the ridge, and you'll be doing a lot of going up and down and scrambling, so the legs get a good workout. Having said that the ridge is actually pretty easy, straightforward, with no protection required anywhere really except in winter. My advice for your first time, make sure the winds aren't too strong, that it is dry enough so it won't be slippy, that it is a clear day so you can see where you are going and where you are aiming to go next, and even with all that when you actually get to the ridge have a look at it and only continue it if your feeling confident that you can do it.

Im not sure what you mean by "the bones", but there is a route up the reeks on a ridge called the bone, so that may be what you are referring to.

adagio

:pac:Hey Op,
The Beenkeragh ridge has many routes so don't be put off doing the horseshoe. If winds are high and your uncomfortable stick to the left hand side of the ridge (if you're doing it Caher - Beenkeragh). If you are very comfortable then navigate along the ridge itself.
Personally I think the severity of the ridge is over estimated because there are many ways to climb/hike it.
If the ridge had only one exposed way to traverse it then I'd suggest that only experienced scramblers tackle it, but that's not the case.
Enjoy the route, it's a great day out.
I did it in January this year w/ice axe/crampons = amazing )
A.

hmmm

If you do the left hand side of the ridge as you describe, is it reasonably safe the whole way or is there spots with dangerous exposure?

adagio

Sorry hmmm,
I think pats87 is correct to refer to it as the west side of the ridge, rather than the right/left..etc.
It all depends upon the weather and your comfort zone. I've been on the ridge w/complete novices and some had no difficulty while some required a little minding.
It's all about the conditions and your experience.
The key to any kind of hiking/scrambling is not to get yourself into a position that you can't back out of if required. So take your time and enjoy.
A.