Intro to Winter Climbing Course - Scotland - 3 Days

mixed climbing in the cairngorms with LDM

intro to winter climbing

Progress your skills onto our winter climbing course and learn two axe climbing techniques such as swinging, hooking and torquing. We are looking to climb a variety of routes on snow, ice and mixed ground from grade I-IV.

Our courses are based predominately in The Cairngorms for more reliable for snow and ice conditions. We may make use of Ben Nevis and Glen Coe on your course should conditions allow and routes be suitable for your ability.

3 DAY COURSE

PRICES: £525pp

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OVERVIEW

This winter climbing course is designed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge needed to climb snow, ice and mixed routes in the winter mountains. This means equipping you with the knowledge to be safe on graded ground in snowy environments. It emphasises practical application with a focus on safety, looking at the technical skills of climbing such as ropework, knots and belaying as well the physical movement needed for two axe climbing; hooking, torquing and swinging efficiently.

There is an emphasis on 'winterising' our summer climbing knowledge and getting to grips with more winter specific equipment and techniques, such as ice screws, snow anchors, winter belays, crampon movement, ice axe placement and managing your stances, changeovers and ropework with gloves and goggles.

The course will take a holistic approach to winter climbing and we will look to educate all aspects of winter mountaineering and climbing when the opportunity arises. This includes avalanche information and education, route condition and grades, coaching winter movement and winter navigation

COURSE OUTLINE

Gear and Equipment

Essential winter clothing, climbing boots, crampons and axes for graded climbs.

Proper fitting of C2/C3 crampons and other winter-specific gear

Route Planning and Avalanche Awareness

Identifying potential avalanche terrain and safe route selection.

Introduction to basic avalanche awareness and safety protocols.

Snow and Ice Climbing Techniques

Safe movement on snow-covered slopes, including ascending and descending.

Use of crampons for front pointing, axes for swinging; hooking and torquing.

'Winterising' Climbing Knowledge

How our rack can differ and what gear is useful

Ice screw placement and belays

Ropework and winter belays

Kicking ledges

Getting to grips with gloves and goggles and the harsh winter environment

Navigation Essentials

Map reading and compass skills for effectively navigation in poor weather

Understanding snow-covered terrain and its effect on navigation

EXAMPLE ROUTES

Grade I

Jacobs Ladder

Central Gully

Number 4 Gully

Grade II

Jacobs Edge

Fiaciall Couloir

Ledge Route

Number 2 Gully

Spiral Gully

Grade III

Hidden Chimney

Tower Ridge

Left Twin

Wavelength

And lots, lots more

BY THE END OF THE COURSE, YOU CAN EXPECT TO

Be able to look after yourself on a climb in poor weather,

Select an appropriate climb due to weather and avalanche conditions

Understand your kit and rack and its limitations in the winter environment,

Be more confident in ice axe and crampon climbing techniques,

Be in a strong position to second winter climbs and developed your trad knowledge and winter skills.

YOU WILL NEED

You will need to wear suitable clothing for winter mountaineering/climbing, including a full set of waterproofs, warm layers, hat & gloves, ski goggles and winter mountaineering boots (B3 boots ideally)

Boots can be hired from LDM, subject to sizes and availability of our stocks.

We can provide crampons, ice axe, helmets and other technical equipment for a small hire fee.

WHY CHOOSE US?

Practical Application:

We believe in hands-on learning. Our course includes extensive practical exercises, allowing participants to immediately apply what they've learned in real-world situations.

Small Group Sizes:

We maintain small group sizes to ensure focussed attention and ample opportunity for questions, discussions, and where possible one-on-one guidance. 1-2 ratio maximum in this environment.

Positive Learning Environment:

We foster a supportive and encouraging learning environment where participants can feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, and building confidence in their navigation abilities.

Quality Equipment for Hire:

We can provide B2 boots for a small fee, as well as ice axes, crampons and helmets. All of these are high quality and selected from premium outdoor brands, making sure you have a safe course with the best kit.

Qualified Instructors:

Our instructors hold the WMCI qualification, the highest award for climbing and mountaineering in the UK.