This glorious view of Britain`s highest mountain would make a fine poster or print for your home or office. The mountain is 4,413 feet high and the first recorded ascent was in 1771. Geologically, it is the remains of a Devonian volcano. The outer slope is curved and smooth but the interior consists of around four miles of vertical cliffs. Some of the hardest rock and snow & ice climbing routes in the world can be found here. The climate, even in summer, is often dangerous with snow falling. The magnetic effects on compasses can lead people away from safety to great precipices. Many climbers have died or got lost here. Proper safety equipment and skill in navigation are vital. However, on the `tourist` route of the mountain around 100,000 people climb to the summit each year. The remains of a meteorological observatory can be seen near the summit cairn. The Lochaber mountain rescue team carries out many rescues here each year. Golden eagles and other wildlife are often seen.
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