What is winter climbing?

scottish winter mixed climbing

Probably the best climbing in the UK is the mixed winter climbing in Scotland. Ice, frozen turf, vertical snowed up rock, plastered on rime ice and the odd bit of rock climbing in gloves; Scottish mixed climbing has a bit of everything. It is usually climbed with crampons and axes and sometimes in terrible weather (this is Scotland after all!).

Ice climbing

Unlike mixed climbing, ice climbing involves trying to climb frozen waterfalls or icy gullys, again using ice axes and crampons. The techniques used are similar to mixed climbing but provide their own unique challenge.

What are winter skills courses?

The mountains of Scotland can be an amazing place to be but snow and ice bring many hazards mountaineers must be aware of. Learn to use an ice axe & crampons, read the avalanche forecasts, navigate in a white out and keep yourself safe whilst enjoying the winter landscape.


Winter Courses

Learn the basics of ice axes and crampons or develop your skills further to operate safely and independently.

DSC06315-2.jpg

Your first taste of Scottish winter climbing? Learn the basics of climbing with ice axes and crampons.

DSC08842.jpg

Want to climb a classic Scottish Ice route? Let one of our instructors guide you.

Book a guide for a safe and stress free winter ascent of Ben Nevis.

Experience the best of the British mountain in winter.

DSC05930.jpg

Experience the unique style of climbing which is Scottish Winter mixed.

DSC06669.jpg

Ready to push further and climb harder? Learn to lead mixed or ice climbs and take your climbing up a notch.


Can’t see what you want? Contact us for fully bespoke packages!


Scottish mixed climbing in Glencoe

Scottish mixed climbing in Glencoe

Ice climbing in the Cairngorms

Ice climbing in the Cairngorms

New routing in Glencoe

New routing in Glencoe