winter mountain walking

The progression from hill & mountain walking in summer to winter mountain walking can be challenging. There are many more factors to consider, use of winter equipment, navigation, weather, shorter days and personal winter mountain skills.
Course Overview: The main part of the course will deal with moving safely through major Scottish Mountains in winter conditions introducing winter novices to basic winter walking skills covering all the essential knowledge to give a solid skills base to venture into the Scottish hills in winter.

Program Itinerary

Gallery

Maximum Ratio | 1: 6

Number of Days |

2 Day week end or 3-5 Day mid week or 1 day private guiding. The minimum course duration is 2 days. Given the progressive nature of the course we only accept bookings from the first day. We do not accept folks mid way in a course.

Subject to availability mid-week 1-day or 2-day courses, your choice of any day of the week.

Previous Experience & Fitness : |

Some previous experience of summer hill walking with basic map & compass work in mountainous country or those who wish to brush up on, refresh skills learnt previously or extend their hill walking seasons safely into autumn & winter conditions with like minded friends. Winter in the Scottish mountains can be particularly demanding particularly in poor weather – good fitness and personal equipment are essential.

Dates & Prices |

Course Title |   Introduction to Winter Skills – Winter Walking

What is included: Our winter mountain prices include: harnesses; helmet; all technical climbing gear such as karabiners, belay plates etc. all survival and safety gear and ropes. This  introduction to winter mountain walking program offers an ideal, cost effective opportunity for novices to learn the requirements of winter mountain equipment and clothing – before investing heavily in buying specialist gear. Please see our Winter Kit List for guidance.

Not included in our standard basic prices: Suitable winter boots B2, ice axe or crampons, map & compass, rucksack min 30ltr, any personal clothing – however most of these items can be hired. Gondola uplift tickets at Nevis Range are also required for possibly the first one or two days – depending on the weather conditions & length of course.

Times & Meeting: Normally meet at 09.00 hrs. In the group room at Snowgoose Centre for a briefing / Winter Mountain Safety Talk / fitting of boots & crampons so that we can all maximise a full day on the hill on the 1st day. We look at coming off the hill by 17.00 hrs. Please plan your travel arrangements around these times.

Location : Lochaber Area, Ben Nevis, Glen Coe Mountain ranges. Depending on the group, the prevailing weather conditions & the length of the course the first day at least will normally be spent at Aonach Mor using the gondola up lift to maximise day light hours & snow conditions.