A person in a red jacket and yellow backpack climbing a snow-covered rocky crevasse using ice axes, with a snowy mountain landscape in the background.
A climber in a red jacket and yellow helmet ascending a snowy mountain face using safety ropes and gear, with a scenic snowy mountain landscape in the background.
A climber in a yellow jacket and helmet ascending a snow-covered mountain slope with icy rocks and snow stalactites above.

Becoming more independent in the winter.

This course is designed for climbers with prior winter experience who are now aiming to become more independent and confident leaders in winter environments. Throughout the course, we’ll focus on developing technical skills, decision-making, and safe leadership practices on Scottish winter terrain.

Each day is adapted to weather, conditions, and your personal progression — but here’s what a typical itinerary might look like:

Key Skills Covered:

  • Route selection & approach planning

  • Avalanche and weather interpretation

  • Risk management & mitigation

  • Gear placement (rock, ice, snow)

  • Snow belays and anchor systems

  • Efficient ropework & stance management

  • Coaching on climbing movement & technique

  • Leadership decision-making in winter environments

Fitness & Experience Required:

Participants must have prior winter climbing experience (Grade I/II minimum), strong hill fitness, and a desire to lead or become more independent in the mountains. This is not a beginner’s course.

    • Price discussed on booking due to the uniqueness of the trip.

    • This course is private guiding basis, on dates that suit you.

    • The course runs better as a 1:2 ratio, we would recommend booking this course with 2 people, this helps simulate lead climbing.

  • Quality waterproofs i.e. Gore-tex or similar

    Gaiters (to be worn underneath your waterproofs)

    B3 style boots

    C3 Crampon

    Warm hat

    Gloves x2 spares minimum

    Winter walking socks

    Large synthetic jacket

    Wicking base layers, top & bottoms

    Goggles, double clear lens recommended

    Head torch, plus spare batteries

    Lunch & warm drink

    Rucksack 30-40ltr

    Compass

    Harness

    Helmet

    Climbing Axes

    Ice Axe leashes

    HMS Karabiner

    Belay device

  • *All technical climbing kit is provided by the guide eg. Ropes and gear protection

    • Crampons

    • Ice Axes

    • Helmet

    • Winter boots

    Please inform us in advance if you require any kit. We will then book it from local outdoor shops.

  • Location: Flexible to You

    The beauty of this course is that it’s entirely adaptable. The exact location will be tailored to your needs, preferences, and, of course, the weather.

    Once you’ve submitted an enquiry, Jack or Ella will give you a call to chat through your goals, experience, and ideal climbing areas. Together, we’ll build a course that works around you.

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