Climbing Scotland

No, you don’t need any prior winter climbing or mountaineering experience to join our Scottish Winter Climbing course. The course is perfect for those who are new to winter climbing or want to build on their existing skills. You will need to be a confident summer mountain walker and scrambler, and ideally have some climbing experience. If you’re new to climbing we can arrange some prior learning.

On our Scottish Winter Climbing course, you’ll learn key skills to safely climb in winter conditions, including:

• Footwork and movement techniques on snow and ice
• How to use crampons and an ice axe effectively
• Basic winter climbing techniques, including placing protection and creating anchors
• Route planning, navigation, and risk management in winter weather
• Avalanche awareness and snow condition assessment

Please refer to the kit list below for full details on what you need to bring for your winter climbing course. If you’re unsure about any item, feel free to contact us, and we can help ensure you’re fully prepared.

Scottish mountain weather is known to be unpredictable, and safety is always our top priority. If conditions are unsafe (e.g., high winds or avalanche risk), we will adjust the course itinerary, change locations, or, if necessary, reschedule the course. We have some excellent low level teaching venues that work no matter the weather. We’ll keep you updated regularly and ensure that no matter the weather, we make the most of the experience. There’s always something constructive we can do, and the mountains are an exciting place to be in any conditions! Sadly the Ice Factor at Kinlochleven is still shut…

Its completely up to you! For certain routes (Tower Ridge form example) we may want to have a minimum of two days together, so we can do a less committing route the day before as a warmup/skills check. Each day will be a blend of practical instruction and hands-on climbing in the mountains. We’ll meet each morning to discuss the day’s objectives, then head out and go climbing. Expect a mix of walking, climbing, and instruction, while we aim to complete exciting climbs and make the most of the conditions.

The course is suitable for those with a good level of fitness who are comfortable with hillwalking and have some climbing experience. Winter climbing can be more demanding, so you should be prepared for long days in the mountains, walking in snow and carrying extra weight due to winter gear. If you’re unsure about your fitness level or experience, feel free to get in touch, and we can help assess whether the course is right for you.

Yes, 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.

Transport and accommodation are not included. On day one, we will meet at a café or similar location to check your kit and plan the day. From there, we’ll head to the climbing venue. If you’re staying in Fort William, we may be able to offer a lift. On subsequent days, we typically meet near the venue for the day’s activities.

Scotland is quite a journey from many parts of the UK, especially for a weekend! You’ll need to factor this into your travel arrangements and time off. Fort William has both rail and bus stations. The nearest airports are Glasgow and Inverness. While it is possible to hire cars from either, Glasgow has better public transport options: There are three direct trains per day, with a journey time of nearly four hours, and CityLink offers six direct buses a day, with a journey time of just over three hours. If coming from the south-east, there is the popular overnight train originating in London.

We understand that winter mountaineering gear can be a significant investment, and it’s always a good idea to bring your own equipment when possible, for comfort and fit, especially for things like boots. However, we offer the option to hire some items if needed – just let us know well in advance, and we’ll arrange the hire and provide cost details. Here’s what you’ll need for the course:

• Rucksack (35-45L)
  A simple, rugged design (avoid airflow system backs). 
• Winter Boots (B2 rated minimum, B3 for climbing courses)
  Make sure they fit well before the course! Available for hire.
• Crampons (C2 rating, e.g., Grivel G12)
  These should fit your boots properly. For climbing courses, we may suggest more aggressive front points, such as the G14s. Available for hire.
• Ice Axes (T-rated shaft, approx. 55cm for mountaineering)
  A single axe for mountaineering or a pair of climbing axes (with clipper leashes) for climbing courses. Available for hire.
• Climbing Helmet
  Make sure it fits comfortably with your hat underneath. Available for hire.
• Climbing Harness
  Essential for climbing courses, not needed for Winter Skills; check that all your clothing fits comfortably under it. Available for hire.
• Goggles
  Anti-fog, double-lens design. Avoid overly dark lenses. Available for hire.
• Belay Plate & carabiner
• 3D shape screwgate carabiner
• 1 HMS screwgate carabiner
• 2 120cm Dyneema slings & snap gates

(Choose the best quality that fits your needs)

• Socks
  Whatever works for you, but avoid cotton. If new to winter boots, carry blister plasters or zinc oxide tape in your first aid kit.
• Gaiters
  To keep snow out of your boots. Alternatively, waterproof trousers with integrated gaiters are a good option.
• Base Layer Tops
  Thermal and wicking materials. Consider both short- and long-sleeve options.
• Trousers
  A base layer and a regular pair of walking trousers work best. Softshell is a great choice, but whatever suits you under waterproofs.
• Fleece Tops
  One thin and one thicker fleece. Softshell is good for one layer, and a hood is a great addition.
• Insulated Jacket
  Go for synthetic (NOT down) with a loose fit that allows layering.
• Waterproof Top
  A sturdy jacket with a helmet-compatible hood and good chest pockets that fit a map.
• Waterproof Bottoms
  Choose durable trousers with full-length zips and braces for comfort.
• Hat
  No bobble hats; choose a style that fits under your helmet. A buff can be useful for face protection.
• Gloves
  A thin dexterous pair for general use, and a couple of waterproof, warm pairs (ideally with leather palms). Gloves (and hands!) will get wet in Scottish winter conditions!

• Waterproof Case/Bag
  For your phone, wallet, and keys.
• Waterproof Bag for inside your Rucksack
  To keep all your gear dry.
• Headtorch
  Plus spare batteries. We recommend bringing two torches; it’s easier to swap torches than change batteries in a storm.
• Sunglasses & Sunscreen
  Yes, even in winter! The sun can still be strong at higher altitudes.
• Water Bottle/Flask
  1L Nalgene and/or a small insulated flask is ideal. Avoid platypus-style bottles as they freeze easily. Top tip: hydrate well the night before and drink in the morning to reduce your load.
• Compass
  Silva Type 4 or similar. Always good to have a spare – we’ll bring extras.
• Maps
  Waterproof maps or with a case. We will advise you on specific areas. We’ll have spare maps on the day.
• Watch
  A stopwatch is essential for navigation and to ensure we finish in time for tea and cake!
• Walking Poles with Snow Baskets
  A great help when wading through snow and icy terrain.

(Required for your own safety; we’ll have these, but if you’re out on your own, you must carry them)

• Survival Bag
  A Blizzard Bag (NOT a survival blanket).
• Group Shelter
  A Bothy Bag for group use.
• Small First Aid Kit
  Include any personal medications you might need.