We will meet and chat through people's aims for the next few days. We will also look at the avalanche and weather forecasts and chat about where we are going and why. There will be a huge emphasis on you being involved in the decision making during the next five days and we will always chat about our decisions of why, where and when. If conditions allow, we will head into Coire an t-Sneachda to recap some core skills; route finding, movement, gear selection building belays and bringing your second up.
On day two we will build upon what we have covered on day 1, looking at building confidence while on another appropriate route with the conditions for the day. We will try to mix up the terrain to allow more learning for use of crampons or rock for example. On the route we will concentrate on stance management, efficient changeovers and how to abseil if needed.
Creag an Chano this gives us the opportunity to abseil 'for real' as we start at the top of the routes. Today we will look at a 'mixed' style of climbing where we may encounter, ice, frozen turf and iced up rock. This give sus plenty of practise to change techniques on the climbs. We will also look at a variety of anchor setups, with just the rope and the use of slings. Focusing on the stance management , change overs and how to stow the rope to minimise rope tangles.
We can head into a new venue to try something a little harder to test our skills and confidence that will give us the head space to maybe look at a lead climb on the last day. Something like side winder in Corie an Lochan.
Back into Coire an t-Sneachda and we after a long honest and open chat with all parties involved we will look at maybe getting you your first lead climb, this is a huge step and not to be taken lightly and there won't be any pressure if you don't feel ready but we will be there to be by your side whatever decision you make.
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Perfect for climbers with solid experience who want to take on steeper and more technical winter routes. Whether you’re aiming for guided climbs on classic routes or pushing your technical skills further, these days provide a rewarding mix of challenge and achievement in Scotland’s wildest winter landscapes.
A strong foundation in crampon and ice axe use, as well as solid climbing or scrambling experience, is essential. Guided days may focus on tackling more advanced routes, while technical instruction can include advanced ropework, gear placement, and navigating exposed or mixed terrain. A high level of fitness is necessary to handle the long, demanding days and unpredictable winter conditions.
All of our staff hold the relevant qualifications and substantial experience for any courses that you book with us here at Scottish Rock & Water. We can provide any relevant certifications upon request.
Yes, you can secure your course/trip with a deposit. We only require a 25% deposit to reserve your position, with the full payment due 30 days prior to the start date.
Yes! Around 40% of people book as solo travellers.
Yes! You can use our fast checkout option to secure your spot without adding participant details. All we need is your name and email to send the confirmation.
While it's not legally required, we strongly recommend that you secure comprehensive travel/activity insurance before your trip to Scotland. Our courses involve outdoor adventures where weather conditions or unforeseen events could cause cancellations or prevent attendance. Having insurance ensures that you're financially protected if these situations arise. For example, many adventurers opt for specialized coverage such as Sports Cover Direct's offerings for canoe holidays or winter climbing, and the British Mountaineering Council also provides tailored policies for mountaineering activities. We encourage you to review these options and choose a policy that best suits your needs for peace of mind during your adventure.
Need to swap dates, change participant details, or ask technical kit questions? Our instructors are on hand to assist.
Want dedicated 1:1 instruction or exclusive guiding for your party on winter lead climbing week? Choose your target dates, customize the daily objectives, and enjoy 100% guide focus.
Winter climbing instructors, classic Scottish venues, and a ratio that leaves time to teach.
All of our courses take place in the Cairngorms, a breathtaking location known for its rugged beauty and dramatic landscapes. This stunning environment offers the perfect backdrop for your winter adventures, allowing you to challenge yourself while surrounded by some of Scotland's most iconic and awe-inspiring scenery.
We live and work in the Cairngorms—and have for over 16 years! Our deep connection to this stunning area means we know it inside and out. From hidden gems to the best winter routes, you’ll benefit from our local knowledge and passion for the place we call home. Whether you’re new to the area or a returning adventurer, we’re here to share the very best of the Cairngorms with you.
All of our courses come fully equipped with leading providers of winter hardware inc our new range of Grivel axes and crampons, world-renowned for their excellence. These industry-leading tools are included as part of your course fee, ensuring that you're using the best equipment available to safely tackle the challenging Scottish winter conditions.
All of our courses are led by dedicated and passionate instructors who bring their expertise and love for the outdoors to every session. They will take the time to tailor the course to your abilities, at pace that suits you while helping you gain the skills and confidence needed to excel in the challenging Scottish winter conditions.
How other climbers found the teaching, the ice, and the step up from summer rock.
Grades, tools, and how to prepare for a Scottish winter climb.
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....
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...
Not sure if your summer leading is enough, or which winter grade to start on? Talk to the instructors who teach these routes.
Gift vouchers
A voucher from £50, posted to you and valid for three years. It can go toward a course, a private day, or winter kit hired for that trip.
