Winter skills training

 

Winter weather The Scottish mountains in winter can be one of the toughest environments on earth. Weather can change from +2C and raining to -5C and snowing in just a couple of hours. Wind speeds on the mountains can reach over 100 miles per hour, and snow accumulating on slopes can slide in deadly avalanches.

Despite all of this, the mountains in winter can offer some incredibly rewarding and beautiful experiences. Snow bunting, ptarmigan and mountain hares make their homes on the frozen tops, and crystal-clear air can offer endless views over white-clad peaks.

To safely explore the winter hills, you need some basic skills: the ability to use an ice axe and crampons to negotiate icy slopes; route-finding skills when the familiar landmarks are buried in snow; and an appreciation of avalanche risks. Join me for a winter skills training course, and I can help you develop these skills for yourself.

A one-day winter skills training course costs £60 per person, and a two-day course costs £100 per person. The course cost does not include equipment hire, transport, food or accomodation. Contact me to book your place.

Course content

Day 1:

  • Introduction to the winter environment
  • Using your boots and crampons for safe travel
  • Using the ice axe for movement and safety
  • Avalanche awareness
  • Winter navigation

 

Day 2:

  • Movement skills refresher
  • Emergency shelter building
  • More navigation!
  • ... and we'll climb a mountain (conditions permitting!)

 

Equipment hire

 

  • Ice axe hire: £5 per day
  • Crampon hire: £5 per day
  • Hire an axe and a pair of crampons together and pay just £8 per day!

Unfortunately I cannot supply winter boots. All participants should bring their own winter boots (minimum B1 standard), These can be hired from retailers such as Nevisport and Tiso.

 

A winter skills training course on Ben Ledi

Upcoming courses

Mon 31/12/201200:00 to 23:59
No course dates available
I am now employed full time so am not running any courses currently
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Other courses and dates may be available. Contact me if you have specific requirements.