Winter Skills Training Scotland – Cairngorms 2 or 3 Day Course
Gain the skills and confidence to tackle Scotland's winter mountains safely. Whether you're stepping up from summer hillwalking or preparing for your first winter Munro, our Cairngorms-based course gives you hands-on experience with expert instructors in some of Scotland's best winter terrain.
This practical Winter Skills Training in Scotland teaches you essential techniques for travelling safely on snow and ice. Choose between a 2-day winter walking course for core skills or a 3-day mountaineering course with added ropework and steep ground techniques.
Ready to master winter mountaineering? Book your course now – limited winter dates available.
What You'll Learn
2-Day Course – Essential Winter Skills
Day 1: Winter Navigation & Introduction to Winter Equipment
- ✓ Winter navigation fundamentals – map and compass skills for winter conditions
- ✓ Navigating in white-outs and poor visibility using micro-navigation techniques
- ✓ Timing and pace in winter terrain – planning realistic routes
- ✓ Introduction to ice axe and crampons – basic use for winter walking
- ✓ Winter hazards awareness – recognizing and avoiding avalanche terrain
- ✓ Emergency procedures and shelter building basics
Day 2: Advanced Winter Walking Skills
- ✓ Ice axe arrest techniques – stopping falls on snow slopes
- ✓ Advanced crampon techniques for steep, icy terrain
- ✓ Step cutting and movement on steep snow
- ✓ Avalanche terrain assessment – learn more from the Scottish Avalanche Information Service
- ✓ Weather assessment and decision-making – check MWIS forecasts
- ✓ Emergency shelters and winter survival skills
Note: Day 1 can be taken as a standalone Winter Navigation Introduction course if you want to start with navigation skills before committing to the full 2-day course.
3-Day Course – Advanced Winter Mountaineering
Everything in the 2-day course, plus:
Day 3: Ropework & Steep Ground
- ✓ Rope skills for steep winter gullies and exposed ridges
- ✓ Belaying techniques to protect your team on steep ground
- ✓ Moving together safely on exposed terrain
- ✓ Anchor building in snow and ice
- ✓ Advanced route selection for technical winter climbs
Which Course Is Right for You?
| Feature | 2-Day Course | 3-Day Course |
|---|---|---|
| Winter navigation skills | ✓ | ✓ |
| Ice axe & crampon techniques | ✓ | ✓ |
| Avalanche awareness | ✓ | ✓ |
| Emergency procedures | ✓ | ✓ |
| Ropework & belaying | ✗ | ✓ |
| Steep ground techniques | ✗ | ✓ |
| Best for | First-time winter walkers | Aspiring winter mountaineers |
Not sure? Our 1-day Winter Navigation Introduction (£85-95) is perfect if you want to test the waters before committing to the full course.
Who This Course Is For
Perfect for you if:
- You're comfortable on summer hills and ready for winter conditions
- You can navigate with map and compass in good visibility
- You're fit enough for 6+ hours of mountain walking in snow
- You're aged 14+ (under 18s must be accompanied by a parent or guardian)
Not sure if you're ready? Contact us – we'll help you choose the right course for your experience level.
What's Included
- Expert instruction from qualified Winter Mountain Leaders
- All group safety equipment (ropes, avalanche transceivers, etc.)
- Course completion certificate
- Small group sizes for personalized attention (max 6:1 ratio)
- Comprehensive course notes and resources
Not included: Accommodation, meals, personal equipment (crampons, ice axe, boots). See our Equipment List and Boot Ratings guide for what you'll need. Ice axe and crampon hire is available – add it at checkout.
Course Details
Location: Cairngorms National Park, Scotland – renowned for reliable winter conditions and varied terrain
Duration:
- 2-Day Course: Two full days on the mountain (typically 9am-5pm)
- 3-Day Course: Three full days on the mountain (typically 9am-5pm)
Season: December to March (dependent on snow conditions)
Meeting Point: Details provided upon booking
Group Size: Maximum 6 participants per instructor for optimal learning
Fitness Level: Able to walk 6+ hours in mountainous terrain carrying a winter rucksack
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I've never used crampons or an ice axe before?
Perfect – we start from the basics on Day 1. No prior winter experience needed, just summer hillwalking confidence and basic navigation skills.
Can I just do Day 1 on its own?
Yes! Day 1 is available as a standalone Winter Navigation Introduction course. It's a great way to build confidence before committing to the full 2-day course.
What if there isn't enough snow?
Scottish winter conditions can be unpredictable. If conditions aren't suitable, we'll reschedule your course to a date with better snow cover at no extra charge.
Can I hire equipment?
Yes! Ice axes and crampons can be hired – simply add equipment hire when you book. Winter boots can be hired from outdoor retailers in Aviemore including Tiso. Check our Boot Ratings guide to see what you need.
Do you provide accommodation?
Accommodation is not included, but we're happy to recommend local options near the Cairngorms. Contact us for suggestions.
What's the difference between 2-day and 3-day courses?
The 2-day course covers all essential winter walking skills. The 3-day course adds technical mountaineering skills like ropework and steep ground techniques – ideal if you want to progress to winter scrambling or easy winter climbs.
More questions? Check our Winter Skills FAQs or get in touch.
Important Safety Information
Scottish winter conditions can change quickly. Our experienced instructors may adapt course content to ensure safety while providing the best possible training experience. We follow guidelines from Mountaineering Scotland and monitor conditions via MWIS and the Scottish Avalanche Information Service.
Your safety is our priority – we'll never compromise on this to tick off skills.
What Our Students Say
"Donny's instruction gave me the confidence to tackle my first winter Munro safely. The hands-on approach and small group size meant I really mastered the skills. Brilliant course!"
– Sarah, Edinburgh
"I'd been putting off winter walking for years because I wasn't confident. After the 3-day course, I feel properly equipped and can't wait to get back out there."
– James, Glasgow
Ready to Unlock Scotland's Winter Mountains?
Learn to travel safely and confidently in winter conditions with our expert-led Cairngorms Winter Skills Course. Build essential mountaineering techniques, improve your decision-making, and enjoy an unforgettable experience in the Scottish Highlands.
Winter season books fast – secure your place today using the booking calendar above.
Questions? Call 07308 513040 or contact us – we're here to help you prepare for your winter adventure.
Your Winter Skills Progression Path
New to winter? Start with our 1-day Winter Navigation Introduction (£95)
Ready for more? Progress to this 2-day Winter Skills Course
Want technical skills? Upgrade to the 3-day course with ropework
Experienced? Explore our wild camping expeditions and guided winter climbs
