Winter Outdoor Adventures in the Highlands for all
This progressive 4 day long course will have you learning to lead climb routes in winter and learning all the ropework and safety associated.
£620 pp
Learn To Lead 4 Day Winter Climbing
| Duration | 4 days |
| Group Size | 1-2 |
| Difficulty | Grade 1-3 |
| Season Of The Year | Winter |
| Minimum Age | 10 |
| Meeting Place | Aviemore Tiso 08:30 |
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Learn To Lead 4 Day Winter Climbing Course Information
A 4-day learn-to-lead winter climbing course in Aviemore & the Cairngorms offers a comprehensive introduction to the skills and techniques required to safely lead winter climbs in Scotland. Participants will learn how to evaluate the snow and ice conditions, how to use ice axes and crampons, how to build snow anchors, and how to place ice screws and protection.
The course is taught by experienced instructors (members of AMI) who will guide participants through a variety of climbs and provide valuable feedback on technique and decision making. The course will be based in the Cairngorms (but may also use varying locations like Creag Meagaidh or Ben Nevis if conditions dictate they will be more appropriate), which offers a wide range of climbs suitable for different levels of experience. By the end of the course, participants will have gained the knowledge and confidence to safely lead winter climbs on their own or with a partner.
Scotland’s reputation for winter climbing is well-known, and the Cairngorms are at the forefront of this reputation, making it an excellent place to learn and improve your climbing skills.
Any Winter Climbing courses will only be delivered by individuals holding the highest UK climbing award you can attain the WMCI and all instructors will be members of AMI (association of mountaineering instructors) – proving they adhere to strict CPD requirements and are currently at the very top of the climbing industry.
Prior winter walking experience is recommended but not essential and some basic prior summer climbing experience would also be ideal.
Here’s a sample itinerary for a 4-day learn to lead winter climbing course in Scotland:
Day 1: Meet at Aviemore at Tiso at 8:30 AM for gear check and introduction. Head to Cairngorm for an introduction to winter lead climbing techniques on an easy route around grade I, including belaying, rope work, and ice axe/crampon skills.
Day 2: Head to the Cairngorms for an ascent of a grade I-II gully or ridge, focusing on movement skills and route finding. Learn how to assess snow and ice conditions and make informed decisions about route choice.
Day 3: Move onto harder routes up to grade II, where you’ll practice gear placement and leading techniques. Continue your development with regards to ropework, gear placement and belaying.
Day 4: Focus on leading and practicing more technical climbing skills on grade II and if appropriate grade III routes. Continue to refine technique and decision-making in a more challenging environment. Finish the day with a debrief and celebration of your achievements.
Throughout the course, your guide will provide personalised instruction and feedback to help you progress as a winter climber.
We are proud to recommend local accommodation options within the area for people when you are up for your Guided Winter Climbing Course:
Aviemore:
Youth Hostel A budget friendly option for people.
Coylumbridge Hotel Aviemroe – good for groups and families alike.
Premier Inn – always a good shout.
Rothiemurchus Campsite – situated in the stunning forest, this is a beautiful budget friendly option.
Glenmore Campsite – situated at Scotland’s highest beach, Loch Morlich has phenomenal views across to Cairngorm Mountain.
Newtonmore & Surrounding Areas:
https://www.wherestagsroar.co.uk/ award winning accommodation in the Highlands – perfect to stay at while up on an outdoor adventure.
Invernahavon Caravan Park – a bit quieter than the others as it is a little further away from the hustle and bustle of Aviemore.
Dalraddy Holiday Park – a family and dog friendly campsite.
Booking onto a 4-day learn to lead winter climbing course in Aviemore & the Cairngorms, is ideal for those who have some climbing experience and want to take their skills to the next level to lead Scottish winter climbs. Led by experienced instructors, this course will provide you with the essential skills and techniques to lead climb safely on winter routes. Learning to lead climb in winter requires specific skills such as assessing snow and ice conditions, placing protection, and choosing the correct route. The course will also cover rope management, belaying, and abseiling techniques.
This experience will give you the confidence to climb independently and safely. Additionally, you will be climbing in some of the most spectacular mountain landscapes in Scotland, which is an experience in itself.
We can tailor the course appropriately for adults or youth climbers – if you want to become an independent winter climber and be able to lead routes of your own managing the ropes, placing gear and safeguarding yourself and your second on the way up then this is for you.
We pride ourselves on providing as much kit as possible for you. However, the list below is what we recommend you should bring to your learn to lead 5 day winter climbing course:
- Travel insurance. (We are insured for all our trips, but we recommend everyone has their own travel insurance as well.)
- Lunch, water.
- Personal medication
- Sun cream, sunglasses
- Clear goggles – we may be able to provide if required please contact us.
- Waterproofs
- Warm layers
- Thick gloves and a hat/buff
- B2 boots (Tiso in Aviemore is the best place to hire if you don’t have your own).
- Rucksack 30 litres or so will suffice
- Own personal kit IF YOU WISH TO Harness, helmet, Crampons, Axes etc (we do supply these but sometimes people prefer to use their own)
Here at Highland Outdoor Adventures, we pride ourselves on providing as much as we can but you are welcome to bring your own equipment if you do prefer. The list below is what we provide you with on the day.
- All instruction.
- Crampons
- Ice Axes
- Leashes
- Ropes
- Helmets
- All Technical Climbing Gear
- All first aid and safety equipment.
- Transportation for 2 people. Pickup can be arranged from elsewhere if needed.
- Photographs of the day provided for you at no extra cost!
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Learn To Lead 4 Day Winter Climbing Course Meeting Place
- Winter Climbing in Aviemore, Cairngorms, Scotland
Please look out for the van branded with our logo’s on all sides. We will always get there early and try to park up prominently for you to see us.
Winter Climbing Video In The Cairngorms
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