winter skills

Our two day Winter Skills Course is aimed at giving you the foundations necessary to safely explore the Scottish hills or any snowy peaks in all their winter majesty. Based out of Fort William with Ben Nevis and Glencoe as our backdrop we will help you prepare for the challenges and exciting possibilities of the winter environment.
"A fantastic couple of days for me. Spent the first day focusing on learning all the skills for winter and then put it all into practice on day two with an ascent of Stob Ban. Learned loads under Caspar's expert instruction."     Will R. 
During the two days we aim to discuss winter kit, learn how to use boots, crampons and ice axe in the most safe and efficient ways possible, practice self-arrest techniques, look at navigation and get to grips with avalanche awareness and emergency procedures. We'll look at all of these important skills for experiencing winter to the fullest whilst exploring the local mountains and putting the skills into practice with a fully qualified and experienced instructor.
Cost & Course dates
Please enquire if you have specific dates which will work for you and we will see what we can do.

​Maximum course size of 6 people
Equipment
Winter boots, crampons and an ice axe will be required for winter skills. If you already own these, fantastic. If not we can help you hire equipment - just let us know in advance. If you would like to purchase your own before the course we would be more than happy to advise what might be best. We also have some kit which you may be able to hire for free; please enquire.

We will provide a helmet for each day. If you are not used to this technical equipment your guide will ensure it is used in the correct manner. We are here to make your experience as safe and fun as possible.
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For kit rental we recommend Scottish Mountain Hire

Please see the Kit List for a comprehensive list of what you will need to bring.
What's Included
Fully qualified, insured and experienced Winter Mountain Leader/Mountain Instructor/Guide
Helmet for the duration of the course
​Safety brief
Action photos
​£10 per guided day donated to Nevis Landscape Partnership
Kit list

You will have to organise accommodation, food, personal equipment and insurance.

For larger groups we can arrange extra guides at a corresponding cost.
Timing and meeting
You will meet your instructor on the morning of your start date. Your instructor will be in contact the week before your start date to discuss final arrangements and the prevailing weather conditions.
Fitness
The Scottish mountains are a challenging environment in winter. In order to best cope with the elements it is advised you come physically and mentally prepared so that you can fully enjoy the experience and get as much as possible out of the two days of instruction.