Skills Course

No, you don’t need any prior walking experience! Our courses cater to all levels, from complete beginners to more experienced walkers. For those new to walking, our introductory courses focus on the basics, while our more advanced courses build on existing skills, such as navigation and tackling more challenging terrain.

On our walking courses, you’ll learn essential skills such as:

• Basic hill walking techniques (footwork, pacing, etc.)
• Route planning and navigation (map and compass)
• Weather awareness and how to assess conditions
• Safety and risk management in the mountains
• Local geography, wildlife, and history of Snowdonia

You’ll also get advice on clothing, kit, and how to stay safe on the mountain.

Here’s a checklist of what to bring:

• Sturdy walking boots with good ankle support and grip
• Weather-appropriate clothing (layers, waterproof jacket and trousers)
• A packed lunch and water
• A small rucksack for carrying your essentials
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection
• Personal medication (if required)
• A camera to capture the incredible views!

If you’re not sure about what to bring, just ask us – we’re happy to help.

Courses typically range from two to five days, depending on the course you choose. Our introductory courses are suitable for beginners and are two days long. We tailor the days to your experience and fitness level.

Mountain weather can be unpredictable, and safety is always our top priority. If conditions are unsafe (e.g. high winds), we’ll either adjust the route or reschedule the course to ensure your safety. We’ll work with you to find an alternative date or location if needed. If we need to cancel due to dangerous weather, you will receive a full refund or be offered an alternative date.

Absolutely! We can tailor a walking course specifically to your needs, whether you want to focus on navigation, summit challenges, or exploring hidden gems of Snowdonia. Whether it’s a family day out or a personal mountain adventure, we’ll create an itinerary that suits your preferences and ability level. Just get in touch with us to discuss your requirements.

Yes! Our walking courses are great for families, friends, or corporate groups. We can adjust the pace and difficulty based on the needs of the group, ensuring everyone has a fun and rewarding experience. 

We arrange to meet at a café near the location for the day on day one, and lift sharing from there may be possible, on subsequent days we tend to meet in the carpark for the day. All our courses are non-residential. Transport to and from the course is not provided.

To ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience on our walking courses, here’s a list of recommended kit. Don’t worry if you don’t have everything yet – we can offer advice and recommendations to help you get set up!

• 30L Rucksack – A simple, comfortable daypack to carry your essentials.
• Walking Boots – Sturdy, well-fitting boots with good ankle support. Take time to get the best fit for comfort and support on varied terrain.
• Socks – Wool or synthetic socks (no cotton!) to keep your feet dry and comfortable.
• Trekking/Softshell Trousers – Comfortable and breathable. No need to break the bank; just find something that works for you.
• Gaiters – To keep water and debris out of your boots on wet or muddy ground.
• Thermal Tops – Warm and moisture-wicking layers for comfort in colder weather.
• Fleece Tops – A thinner fleece for active use, and a thicker fleece for warmth when needed.
• Insulating Jacket – A synthetic jacket (not down) for warmth. Choose one that fits over your layers comfortably.
• Waterproof Jacket – With a good hood and pockets that can hold a map or snacks.
• Waterproof Trousers – No need for anything fancy, but durable and breathable to protect against rain.
• Warm Hat/Sunhat – A warm hat for colder weather, or a sunhat for sunny conditions.
• Gloves – A pair of warm and waterproof gloves for rainy conditions.  It’s really nice to have a spare pair too. Hands will inevitably get wet, no matter how good the gloves!
• Waterproof Case/Bag – To keep your phone, wallet, and keys safe and dry.
• Waterproof Bag – For storing any items inside your rucksack that need to stay dry.
• Headtorch – With spare batteries, just in case we finish later than expected.
• Compass – A Silva type 4 compass is recommended for navigation.
• Watch – A wristwatch is a vital tool for keeping track of time and navigation.
• Sunglasses & Sun Cream – The sun can be surprisingly bright at higher altitudes, so protect your eyes and skin.
• Water Bottle/Flask – At least 1.5-2L to stay hydrated throughout the day.
• Maps – We can provide maps, but feel free to bring your own if preferred, we will advise on which specific one.
• Map Case – Waterproof map cases will keep your map dry and easy to read

• Please ensure that all your items, especially electronics, are kept dry. Waterproof cases are highly recommended for phones and valuables.
• Layers are essential for mountain walking. The weather can change quickly, so make sure you’re prepared for both warm and cold conditions.