100m, 2 pitches. A consolation to an unfrozen Raven Gully. 'Upper ravine of Combe gill is also entertaining.' In normal winter conditions this should offer some reasonable climbing, even if Raven Gully proves not to be in. In a rare prelonged full freeze, adventurous parties will have the option of an exciting ascent of the whole gill from the bottom, probably at a solid grade IV if the true gully line is followed throughout. More usually the lower pitches will be little more than a fully fledged waterfall and the climb will need to begin at the obvious mid-level snow basin, which can be accessed easily from the west side. Here the walls converge and a cave and massive chockstone await to provide the fun. In a full freeze the right side will probably offer the most interesting route over the chockstone. More usually the left side will provide the good water ice, while the chockstone itself offers decent rock protection. A straightforward easy-angled snow slope above completes access to the gill head. Keep crampons on, as healthy lines on Combe Head Crag await the explorative.

Ticklists

Lake District Winter Gills and Icefalls

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