22/02/2023

Couloir / Y Gulley Left Branch

Party of 3 intending to ascend Couloir - Grade 1 with one ice axe each. In fog and approaching from directly West, missed the approach hidden behind slab and ascended Grade 3/4+ Y Gulley Left Branch. The early ice was considered expected based on prior climb of Grade 1 days prior (Aladdins). At the time the error was recognised, descent was not possible due to severe run off, no flat ground to stabilise on and lean conditions/thick ice on incline meant rucksacks were inaccessible from our position. Called mountain rescue with hand jam in between rock and ice to stabilise, and held on with ice axe and crampons until rescue.