Skills Course

No previous scrambling or climbing experience is required! Our courses are designed to suit all levels, from absolute beginners to those with some mountain experience. On our introductory scrambling courses, we’ll teach you the fundamentals, including basic techniques and safety measures, while our more advanced sessions will help you refine your skills and tackle more challenging routes with the use of ropes.

During the course, you’ll learn essential scrambling skills such as:

• Basic scrambling techniques (footwork, body position, handholds, etc.)
• Route planning and choosing safe lines
• Understanding and assessing the mountain environment
• Safety techniques and risk management on rocky terrain
• Effective use of equipment (helmet, harness, ropes, etc.)
• Placing protection, building belays.
• Weather awareness and how to read mountain conditions We’ll also cover the local geology, history, and the wildlife that makes Snowdonia special.

See our kit list below for more info.

Our scrambling courses typically last between two and five days, depending on your chosen course. Introductory courses are perfect for beginners and typically last two days, while our advanced courses provide a more challenging experience and usually span two to five days. We tailor the routes and difficulty to suit your experience, fitness level, and goals.

Snowdonia’s weather can be unpredictable, and safety is our priority. If conditions become unsafe (e.g. heavy rain, high winds), we will adjust the route or, in extreme cases, reschedule the course to ensure your safety. If we need to cancel or reschedule due to dangerous weather, you’ll receive a full refund or be offered an alternative date. We’ll work with you to find a suitable option.

Yes! We can tailor a scrambling course to your exact needs. Whether you want to focus on tackling specific routes, improving your technique, or exploring hidden scrambling gems in Snowdonia, we can create a bespoke course that fits your preferences. Perfect for families, small groups, or individuals. Get in touch with us to discuss your ideas!

u003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400;u0022u003eYes, we offer the option to loan essential winter climbing gear, including crampons and ice axes (at an additional charge), helmets and climbing harnesses. However, you’ll need to bring your own winter boots (which can also be hired externally) and appropriate clothing (warm layers, waterproofs, etc.). If you’re unsure about what equipment you need, don’t hesitate to get in touch, and we’ll help you arrange the correct kit for your course.u003c/spanu003e

Absolutely! Scrambling can be a fantastic family or group activity. We can adjust the pace, difficulty, and length of the course to suit everyone, from families with children to corporate groups looking for a unique team-building experience. We ensure that all participants are comfortable and challenged at their own level.

Our courses are non-residential, but we’ll arrange to meet you at a convenient location (usually a café near the start of the route) for the first day. For subsequent days, we generally meet at the car park at venue for the day. If you need assistance with accommodation options, feel free to ask, and we’ll be happy to provide recommendations. Transport to and from the course is not included.

We understand that outdoor kit can be expensive, so before buying everything, feel free to borrow what you can! We may also be able to help with the loan of some gear – just ask us for advice.

If you already own kit, great! If not, don’t worry – more affordable options will work just as well. Below is a kit list for both climbing and walking, with specific climbing gear available to borrow from us.

(Available to Borrow) If you have your own, feel free to bring it along. We’ll only use our own ropes on the course.

• Helmet
• Climbing Harness
• Small Climbing Rack (1 set of nuts, small selection of hexes/cams, 6 longer quickdraws)
• Belay Plate & Carabiner
• 1 HMS Screwgate Carabiners
• 2 D-shaped Screwgates
• 2 x 120cm Dyneema Slings with snap gate carabiners
• Prussik (35cm after tying, 5mm cord) & Nutkey both on Snap Gates

Don’t worry, if you’re unsure about anything, just get in touch!

• Rucksack – 30L (Simple and comfy for the day)
• Boots – Standard walking boots (spend time getting the best fit; B1/B2 boots for crampon use are ideal)
• Socks – Wool or synthetic (no cotton!)
• Gaiters – To keep water and debris out of your boots
• Thermal Tops – Warm and moisture-wicking
• Trekking/Softshell Trousers – Comfortable for walking, no need to spend a fortune
• Fleece Tops – 1 thinner and 1 thicker for insulation
• Insulating Jacket – Synthetic (not down), loose enough to go over layers
• Waterproof Jacket – With a good hood and map-sized pockets
• Waterproof Trousers – Budget-friendly options are fine
• Warm Hat/Sunhat – Depending on the weather
• Gloves – Fleece gloves + waterproof gloves (your hands will get wet!)
• Waterproof Case/Bag – For your phone, wallet, and keys
• Waterproof Bag – For items inside your rucksack
• Headtorch – Plus spare batteries
• Sunglasses & Sun Cream – It can get bright!
• Water Bottle/Flask – Hydration is key
• Compass – Silva Type 4 recommended
• Maps – We’ll advise on which
• Map Case – Or a waterproof map