Winter Skills in the Cairngorms

Take Your Hill Walking into Winter

Snow-covered hills, crisp air and a familiar landscape transformed. Winter opens up a different side of Scotland’s mountains—and brings new skills to learn.

Our two-day Winter Skills courses introduce the practical techniques and judgement needed for winter hill walking. Based in the Northern Cairngorms and surrounding area, they offer time to practise, ask questions and build confidence.

Who Is It For?

You don’t need previous winter walking experience, but a good level of fitness is essential. Tell us about your hill walking experience when you enquire so we can discuss whether the course is suitable.

What You’ll Learn

• Planning a winter mountain day and choosing equipment.
• Moving on snow and ice.
• Using an ice axe and crampons.
• Ice axe arrest.
• Avalanche awareness and avoidance.
• Winter navigation.
• Emergency procedures.

We’ll adapt the activities to the weather, snow conditions and the group. The course provides foundations to practise and develop through further experience.

Small Groups and Personal Attention

Our standard courses have a maximum of four participants per instructor, giving you time to ask questions and receive individual feedback.

Private courses are also available for groups of five or six.

Prices and What’s Included

Two-day course — £250 per person.
Maximum four participants per instructor.

Private groups of five or six — £230 per person for two days.
One instructor exclusively for your group.

Ice axes and crampons are included.

Preparing for Your Course

You’ll need clothing and footwear suitable for full days in the winter mountains. When you enquire, tell us what equipment you already have so we can discuss what you’ll need.

Please also mention any support needs or adjustments you’d like to discuss.

Plan Your Winter Adventure

Get in touch with your preferred dates, group size and a brief outline of your hill walking experience.

Whether you’re new to winter walking or want to revisit the basics, we can discuss the right next step for you.