Winter Outdoor Adventures in the Highlands for all
A guided introduction to winter climbing single day course on Cairngorm and the northern corries. If you have never tried winter climbing or just want a day being guided up some routes this is for you! We can tailor the course for adults or youth. We will tailor the course and routes climbed to your abilities and wishes.
£250.00
Introduction To Winter Climbing
| Duration | 1 day |
| Group Size | 1-2 |
| Difficulty | Grade 1-3 |
| Season Of The Year | Winter |
| Minimum Age | 10 (must be accompanied by parent) |
| Meeting Place | Aviemore Tiso 08:30 |
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Introduction To Winter Climbing Course Information
A 1-day guided winter climbing introduction course in Aviemore & the Cairngorms, is a perfect way to experience the challenges and beauty of winter climbing in Scotland. An experienced instructor (member of AMI) will introduce essential climbing techniques such as using ice axes and crampons, and participants will have the opportunity to practice these techniques while climbing a route that is tailored to the ability of the group.
The instructor will provide guidance and feedback throughout the climb, ensuring that everyone is comfortable and confident with the techniques they are learning. By the end of the day, participants will have gained a basic understanding of winter climbing, avalanche awareness, navigation and climbing skills (like tying in, belaying and removing gear) in Scotland and will have had a memorable experience in the stunning natural environment of the Cairngorms. The course is suitable for beginners with little to no experience in winter climbing.
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.
A 1-day guided introduction to winter climbing course in the Cairngorms, Scotland is a perfect taster for those new to the sport or those who just want to hire a guide. The day begins outside Tiso in Aviemore at 08:30 with an equipment check, discussion around the weather and avalanche risks of the day and a chat about the plan to tailor it to your aims and prior experience. This then follows by driving to Cairngorm Mountain (15 minutes away), walking into the crag and climbing which will include… an introduction to essential climbing techniques such as using ice axes and crampons, navigation, belaying, tying in. Participants will then get to climb a gentle slope or easy grade climb, under the guidance of an experienced instructor. If you have prior experience, then of course we can and will climb something harder if you wish it!
Alongside climbing, the instructor will also teach basic navigation skills (if appropriate time wise and weather wise) such as reading maps and using a compass. The day will be tailored to suit the group’s experience and skill level, with the aim of building confidence and competence in winter climbing. Participants will get a taste of the unique beauty and challenges of winter climbing in the Cairngorms.
We will likely head into Corrie an t’ Sneachda, or Lochain and do routes like Jacobs Ladder, the Runnel, Hidden Chimney or nearby alternatives.
We are proud to recommend local accommodation options within the area for people when you are up for your guided Introduction to 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.
If you are new to winter climbing, then a guided introduction course in Aviemore & the Scottish Cairngorms is an excellent way to gain the necessary skills and experience in a safe and controlled environment. The Cairngorms provide an ideal location for learning the basics of winter climbing, with a range of grades and climbs suitable for all skill levels. With an experienced instructor (AMI member) leading the way, you will be able to learn essential techniques needed to climb on second safely in the winter conditions. The Cairngorms also offer stunning natural beauty, making it an unforgettable and immersive experience and are world renown for their winter climbs.
If you fancy trying out winter climbing to expand out of summer and open. whole new playground then this could be for you. We are also able to take young people winter climbing and hold an AALA license having checked by HSE and approved to do soil you want to get your kids into winter climbing or give them a truly adventurous day out they will never forget then we will tailor the day accordingly to their age and ability.
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 introduction to 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 introduction to winter climbing course.
- All instruction.
- Crampons
- Ice Axes
- Leashes
- Ropes
- Helmets
- All Technical Climbing Gear
- All first aid and safety equipment.
- Photographs of the day provided for you at no extra cost!
- Transportation for 2 people. Pickup can be arranged from elsewhere if needed.
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Introduction To 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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