Dave MacLeod on Echo Wall. Photo: Dave Cuthbertson

One of Britain’s top climbers will lead a walk to view the corries of the UK’s highest mountain as part of the lead up to next year’s London Olympics.

Dave MacLeod, arguably the country’s most adventurous rock-climber, will explain the history of climbing on the cliffs of Ben Nevis’s North Face, including his groundbreaking Echo Wall route accomplished in 2008.

The walk has been arranged by the John Muir Trust and MacLeod as part of the countdown to the Olympic and Paralympic Games. Members of the public will be able to join Dave’s guided tour later this month.

The first known climb on the ben’s North Face was made more than a century ago, while MacLeod’s Echo Wall climb, on the eastern side of Tower Ridge, has been described as a strong contender for the world’s hardest traditional rock climb.

Sporting events to mark the Olympic run-up will take place throughout Britain on the Olympic Open Weekend of 22 to 24 July.

Rob Bushby, John Muir Award manager for the John Muir Trust, which owns most of the upper reaches of Ben Nevis, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to hear first-hand how the boundaries have been pushed and the exhilarating achievements on the ben over the years.

“Dave MacLeod is one of the foremost climbers in the world and has not only an intimate knowledge of the North Face but a great appreciation of the beauty and aesthetics of Ben Nevis. We’re really pleased to be able to offer a guided walk with him to explore this iconic mountain.”

London 2012 chair Sebastian Coe said: “I’d encourage people to get involved at a local event as part of this nationwide celebration; it will be an amazing event.”

Places on the Ben Nevis walk are free, but limited. Anyone over 14 can take part, but under 16s must be accompanied by an adult. The walk will take place on Sunday 24 July. Would be participants should email the John Muir Trust to confirm availability.