An Introduction to Safe Winter Mountain Travel
This course is ideal for anyone just starting out in winter hill walking and looking to build the skills and confidence to travel safely in the winter mountains.
Whether you're a summer walker wanting to make the transition into winter or a complete beginner curious about exploring snowy terrain, this practical and hands-on course will give you a strong foundation in essential winter mountain skills.
Who Is This Course For?
First-time winter hill walkers
Summer hikers wanting to build winter confidence
Anyone needing a refresher on essential winter safety skills
No prior winter experience is necessary, but you should have a reasonable level of fitness and be comfortable walking for several hours in mountainous terrain.
2-Day Winter Skills Course
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Safe and effective use of crampons and ice axe
How to move confidently on steep ground
Techniques for different snow and ice conditions
Avalanche awareness and how to interpret the avalanche forecast
How to read and apply mountain weather forecasts
Essential winter navigation: compass bearings and map reading
Choosing safe routes and understanding winter terrain hazards
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Day 1 – Winter Movement & Equipment
Meet your instructor and course briefing
Kit overview: winter boots, crampons, ice axe, layers, etc.
Fitting and using crampons properly
Ice axe use for support and self-arrest
Practising efficient movement on snow and ice
Introduction to avalanche awareness and forecast interpretation
Journey on the hill to apply movement techniques
Day 2 – Navigation & Terrain Skills
Winter navigation basics: map reading and compass bearings
Route planning based on weather and avalanche forecasts
Moving on steeper ground with confidence and control
Understanding different snow types and how to adapt movement
Group discussions and Q&A
Personal action plan for future winter adventures
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PRICING
2-Day Course — £220 per person
(the course must have 3 participants to run. If the course does not fill then you will be offered the option to upgrade your adventure to Private Guiding.)
DATES
This course is available on both scheduled dates and flexible dates arranged to suit your availability.
Dates of scheduled courses can be found in booking options.
LOCATION
Most of our Winter Skills courses are delivered in Aviemore, within the Cairngorms National Park, or in the Fort William area.
Specific locations for each course can be found below according to the scheduled dates.
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PERSONAL KIT TO BRING
Clothing & Footwear
Quality waterproofs (e.g., Gore-Tex or equivalent)
Gaiters (worn underneath waterproofs)
B2–B3 mountaineering boots
Warm hat
Gloves (minimum 2 spare pairs)
Winter walking socks
Large synthetic insulated jacket
Wicking base layers (top and bottoms)
Equipment
Goggles (double clear lens recommended)
Head torch (with spare batteries)
Compass
Rucksack (30–40 L)
Food & Hydration
Lunch
Warm drink
KIT PROVIDED FOR YOUR USE
Crampons
Ice Axe
Helmet
Please inform us in advance if you require any kit.
B2 or B3 Winter boots
We can book boots from local outdoor shops for you to rent from, prices may vary depending on the outdoor shop.
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