Anklebiter Ridge loop Scramble on 18-Jul-2026

Well, there was quite a bit of sweating today, and also a surprising amount of smoke. But we had a lovely (if challenging) trip that most had not done before.
We set out shortly after 9:30 in temperature (around 25c) that was far higher than the forecasts had predicted.
After a very short gradual slope we got right onto the steep climb. The trip is being done quite a bit and so the route up is quite braided. It's a constant challenge to determine which route is easiest. All are quite close and so it was easy enough to ensure we didn't "lose" someone. The only folk we saw were a large group a short way up which Tana told me is at the start of a newish Via Ferrata. Free! We did frequently have to scramble, but nothing more than SC5.

Many other sections were OT5

After several false summits, we were at the top of Anklebiter in a little over 2 hours where we had lunch.

Cordula ably led us down through the cliff bands on the far side and past this cave (no inhabitants).

The walk over to Bluemat is partially on the ridge.

But also frequently through forest.

From Bluemat (no idea why it or Anklebiter have their names) we found a pretty decent route down with quite a bit of soso scree.

And below that a mix of human and game trails.
Back at the cars a little after 3:00. Most of us cooled off our feet in Grotto Pond.

Only 6.4 km, 850m ascent, but it took us 5 1/2 hours!
(The only part where you can "stride" with normal pace is the first 100 m and the last 700 m.)

Many thanks to participants: Alda, Susan, Cordula, Gary, Tina, Jenny, Tana, and Linda for joining me, Carl (C/S).