Tower Ridge Guided Winter Ascent

Tower Ridge Guided Winter Ascent

A 1-day guided winter climb up Tower Ridge on Ben Nevis is a challenging and rewarding experience for Scottish winter climbers. It is often hailed as the jewel of winter climbing for beginner and intermediate climbers. Tower Ridge is widely regarded as the UK’s finest winter route and is 800m long, featuring steep snow slopes and exposed ridges. Climbers will be led by an experienced instructor (member of AMI) and will navigate the technical terrain of the route, with instruction and support provided throughout the climb. The climb typically starts at 08:00 and finishes around 16:00, with time to take in the stunning views from the summit of Ben Nevis. Climbers should be in good physical condition to undertake this climb as it is a big day with lots of walking and climbing and is tiring.

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 climbing experience would also be ideal.

Tower Ridge Guided Winter Ascent Itinerary

A guided winter climb up Tower Ridge, the UK’s finest winter route on Ben Nevis, is a challenging and technical climb that typically begins at 08:00 from the North Face car park. From here we head up the track to the CIC hut (the highest and only mountain hut in the UK) before we start the climb shortly thereafter. Climbers will be led by an experienced instructor and will navigate the steep snow slopes and exposed ridges of the route, with instruction and support provided throughout throughout the whole 800m climb.

The climb will take around 8 hours to complete, with time at the summit to take in the stunning views of the surrounding area (if the weather is good). Climbers will need to have be in good physical condition. All necessary equipment, including crampons and ice axes, will be provided bar B2 Boots you will need to source your own boots (please check the what do I need to bring and what is provided sections).

A guided winter climb up Scotland’s famous Tower Ridge, the UK’s finest winter route on Ben Nevis, is a challenging but rewarding experience. Climbers will meet their guide at the North Face car park at 08:00 before setting off on the climb. The day will be spent navigating the technical terrain of the route, including steep snow slopes and exposed ridges, with the guide/instructor providing instruction and support throughout.

Climbers will also have the opportunity to take in the stunning views from the summit of Ben Nevis (weather permitting). The climb typically finishes around 16:00, leaving time to celebrate the achievement and reflect on the experience. It is essential that climbers are in good physical condition to undertake this climb as it is a big day with lots of walking and a long 800m climb.