24th April 2025

Carn Gowla
Journey to Ixlan – HVS 4c – Alt Lead

Been a long time coming, but finally I’ve done the great odyssey of JtI. What a route! Fragile Rock, huge exposure, tricky route-finding and rope drag. It’s got it all.

When Nick had suggested climbing, I didnt anticipate Carn Gowla, but once again the dry spring meant a often wet crag was in condition. Couple this with a lifting of the ban which had been in place last year because of Peregrins and JtI was on.

It’s 5 pitches. Pitch 1 is a descent of a ramp to what is really the first belay. Then the interesting climbing really starts. Each pitch has its own character. I would say P4 has the single hardest move (and the most exposure), but P5 is the most sustained and has the additional problem of rope drag, which should not be underestimated.

It’s a full outing, but so engaging time just flies. Add in the impressive sea state with roaring and surging surf, wind and seagulls and your senses are overwhelmed. It is such a privelege to be able to climb in these areas. Something few get to witness which makes it feel even more special.

It was so good to climb together with Nick after what has been a long break. I’m sure now we’ll get on it and bag a few more epics before the end of the year.