You’ll cover essential techniques for safe travel in winter, including ice axe use, crampon skills, avalanche awareness, navigation in snow, and how to stay safe in challenging conditions.
No prior winter experience is required, but a good level of hillwalking fitness is recommended. Our courses are designed for beginners as well as those looking to refresh their skills.
Snow holing is building and spending the night in a shelter carved out of snow. It’s a unique and rewarding way to experience the mountains in winter and a highlight of our courses.
Our courses take place in the Cairngorms, one of the UK’s best training grounds for winter mountaineering.
You’ll need winter boots, crampons, and an ice axe. A full kit list will be provided, and some equipment may be available to hire.
Yes. Our highly qualified instructors put safety first at all times and adapt the course to weather and snow conditions.
You should be comfortable walking in the hills for several hours while carrying a rucksack. Winter conditions can be tougher than summer walking, so good fitness helps you get the most from the course.
Snow holing is usually included as an optional part of our Winter Skills programme, depending on snow conditions and weather.
Courses run in all conditions, but safety always comes first. In extreme weather, instructors may adjust plans while ensuring the course remains a valuable learning experience.
Simply choose your course date on our website and secure your place online.