24th August 2026

Carn Gowla – C Buttress

Sundance – HS 4b – Lead

Sundance is by no means the best HS at Gowla, but the ab down to the ledge at the bottom of Rainbow Games is one to set the pulse going. It’s been a while since I climbed here. I think the last time was when a group of us top roped the two E2’s here and that must be going back to 2012!

Looking at Rainbow Games I still get the urge to have a crack on the lead. I think realistically this will have to be after I’ve had my hip done, but it’s there and calling….

Sundance is as described. Pleasant. I think it falls nearer Severe than HS. Possibly the pro might up the severity rating, but the climbing is straight forward. Mike and I cruised this one. We split the climb just above the rib and Mike led the final section. First lead in a long time I think and Gowla at that.

We were cheated out of our usual amazing sunset by a cloud bank. And boy are the evenings drawing in fast now. It wont be long before the evening sessions will have to wait for spring. I would add that for anyone thinking of climbing this buttress the walk in and out is steep. I must do something about how heavy my climbing pack is. Probably sneeking it into Mikes might be a good bet 🙂