Field notes
Stories and preparation notes from the ridges, rivers, and winter days.
Highlands JournalStephen McCall
When you paddle the Hårkan River in central Sweden, you're not just on a canoe trip—you're moving through some of the most pristine wilderness Scandinavia has to offer. Vast forests meet clear water, the only sounds are...
Highlands JournalStephen McCall
Fresh, hearty meals are a highlight of our canoe holidays—think hot porridge for breakfast, picnic-style lunches, and hearty dinners like curry or fajitas, all made with quality ingredients. We cater for all diets and us...
Rock ClimbingStephen McCall
Making the leap to trad climbing? Learn how to build your first rack without breaking the bank. This guide covers essential gear and what beginners actually need for Scottish summer climbing....
Highlands JournalStephen McCall
I get this question regularly from guests considering our Skye Munros course. There's something about these peaks that creates genuine anxiety – perhaps it's their reputation, the dramatic photos, or simply the fact that...
MountainsStephen McCall
Of Scotland's 'Big Three' sea stacks, Am Buachaille stands out as the most adventurous. What makes it unique? A mandatory swim that adds......
Highlands JournalStephen McCall
Planning your Scottish canoe adventure? Let's talk about something crucial that can make or break your experience – packing! As seasoned......
Water based expeditionsStephen McCall
Like all good trips, this one started with a quick message. ‘Are you interested in a bit of an adventure in November? I’ve got a two-week......
MountainsStephen McCall
11 days, 435km, 13 blisters, 1 suspected 'Carpal tunnel syndrome' and no transport. It was going to be one hell of a trip. I had been......
Winter SkillsStephen McCall
A blog to help people plan their winter days with a framework to have safer and more enjoyable days in the winter months....
MountainsStephen McCall
Memories on the Black Cuillin Ridge I've had my fair share of memorable days in the mountains — an environment that provides my income,......
MountainsStephen McCall
Top tips on planning your scrambling days in the mountains!...
MountainsStephen McCall
There is something very special about skiing to the waters edge, like all the way to the lapping water on the shore. After a very hit and......
Highlands JournalLou Reynolds
After your boots, an ice axe is possibly the single most useful piece of kit for winter walking. Use it alone, or with the addition of crampons, for a secure day out in winter. This article looks at how to choose it and...
Highlands JournalLou Reynolds
Sitting by the fire with a mug of hot tea, watching the leaves turn red and gold outside, I get great pleasure from flicking through my......
MountainsLou Reynolds
The transition from summer rock climbing into winter is best prepared for in advance. Dusting off your B3 boots, ice axes and crampons,......
WinterLou Reynolds
You may be relatively new to winter walking or an expert winter climber, but avalanche awareness applies to us all and unfortunately, I don't think we can ever sit back and say we have it all sorted. It needs constant aw...
WinterLou Reynolds
Keeping our hands warm in winter is a common topic of conversation and an area of confusion for some. The idea of needing the most expensive gloves on the market, or buying the thickest pair possible, is not necessarily...
Highlands JournalStephen McCall
Easterly winds were forecast, dragging frigid air from Serbia – a bone-chilling -30°C to be precise. The dry air bit sharply with every......
MountainsStephen McCall
Days like these are the ones you dream of, for a long time... it takes the stars to align from the weather, climbing partners and if you're trying to film it, low winds good light and a very early start! Alarms set for 3...
Water based expeditionsStephen McCall
As the summer season draws to a close, we get some spare time on our hands, so what better to do than see where the water is and get some good old fashioned adrenaline! So Liam, Terry and myself had a few days off togeth...
