The Mountain Path Up Ben Nevis (And The Reason We Probably Wouldn't Do It Again)

On my honeymoon 6 years ago (December 2018) my wife and I climbed Cairngorm in snow that was often in excess of 9ft deep. It nearly broke both of us but the sense of achievement at the summit was one I will never forget. I fell through the snow many times (up to the crutch) and even though we were dressed for the hike we both had soaking wet feet by the time we finished. My wife had her dog with her too, but he seemed to enjoy the trip! Ironically it was my wife who inspired me to undertake this monumental hike (well it was for me) as she likes to challenge herself. I should add we were both in our 50's at the time, and my wife is totally blind. She's my hero.

Drink before you are thirsty. Eat before you are hungry. Rest before you are tired. Play it safe.

I did the hike up Ben Nevis at age 66 on 8th August 2023. I did it to complete the trio but not together. Was in the car park till the first glimpse of light and without any sleep. Set off at 5.10 am and got back at 3.40 pm just before the shop was going to close. It took me 101/2 hours. 5 hours up and 5 hours down with 1/2 hour lunch break at the top. Stopping to do maybe 100 photographs. That was so exhausting and will never climb another mountain again but glad I did it as part of my bucket list. I find it hard to believe that in all that time, I didn’t have a toilet break and besides there is nowhere to hide. I avoided drinking much for that reason. Stick to valley walking now.

I am out of breath and my legs are aching just watching this! What a walk that was! Well done to you both.

Alicja’s positivity helped power through a tough challenge. 💫 What an effort to film, Steve. 👏👏 Thanks for an unmissable episode. 🙌🏼

A really good insight into what the climb is actually like. As you concluded, you probably didn't give yourself the best preparation, but you could tell by your commentary and demeanor how physically and emotionally draining the walk was for you. It felt very honest/authentic. Fair play and respect for seeing it through! But it looked stunning. Obviously, in the sunshine it's always going to look amazing from such a height... but I quite liked the claustrophobic feel of the darkness, rain and mist that you walked through. It seemed to reflect how you were feeling. As always, a great video!!

Brought back fond memories. I first climbed it in July 1997,the weather was perfect up and down (incredible views),Second time was June 2000, Blizzard on the Summit ! Third time got to the starting bridge, torrential rain,gave up,full day in the Ben Nevis Pub in Fort William ! Now i'm turned 71 and the knees have gone,i struggle with the stairs. Do it while your young, an unforgetable experience.

Really good to hear you highlight that you should always be prepared to turn around and not give in to "summit fever". It's also great to see a realistic portrayal of what is essentially a long slog for most people. Mountaineering Scotland will be delighted at you reminding everyone to take a map and compass - and know how to use them! It's not the most scenic route, that's via the CMD Arete, but it's good to see you rewarded by views on the way down. The weather is only clear around one day in every six or seven so your video reflected the reality well. Well done for sticking with it.

Great video, at nearly 70yrs of age. Through this video I think it's beyond me, even if I love walking. So very educational. Thanks for that

OMG! I was scared you might slip on those wet stones in the dark and exhausted just watching you climbing up and down that stony path. Wonderful you got sunshine on the way down, the view was breathtaking. Thank you Steve and Alicja 🥰 for taking us with you. Now I get another coffee and watch it again!

Alicja’s attitude is amazing (!) anything is possible with the two of you together! Thank you for taking us up Ben Nevis

Amazing effort & photography under the real world conditions trekking up BenNevis 😀👍🏻👍🏻👏🏻👏🏻👍🏻👍🏻

All of the darkness at the beginning....... I've never watched such an unusual video Steve! Such a wonderful reward for you coming down though when the clouds cleared. I appreciate how hard you found this, and appreciate how you stuck it out. Alicja was incredible - she has such stamina and positivity! Well done both of you.

Thank you for doing this so I don't have to! Much appreciated. 🙂👍

“My tail ain’t wagging!” 🥴 Boy, did I feel your pain. Well done. You did it. 👏👏👍😀

Did I just hear " Well, you never do, so why should I?" Great banter 😂

Hallo. I admire the pair of you walking up Ben Nevis on a cold and rainy morning. It’s such a pity the weather was so poor at the top. Looks like plenty of people wanting to get to the top later that morning. The scenery is fantastic when the clouds finally cleared. Well done the par of you. You deserve a medal😀

Very well done. It took me around the same time. You both did it with a smile. Alicjas was a tower of strength too, always there with a kind morale boosting nudge. Great stuff.😎☯️🌱

This channel is awesome and Steve’s personality is infectious. My 12 year old daughter watches the channel with me. Now every thing for her is “wee” this and “wee” that. It’s hilarious. They say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery Steve.

Another amazing video from Steve & Alicja . Great for you to share this brave experience with us all .