WINTER MOUNTAINEERING

Walking the winter mountains is incredibly rewarding but imagine being able to safely negotiate graded gullies and introductory Winter Mountaineering ridges too. The UK mountains have many excellent mountaineering routes if anything Scotland is famous for them. The variety of climbing available is vast and knowing where and what to climb on any given day can be daunting for a walker looking to take their first steps.

Our friendly team is ready to teach you the techniques to safely climb grade I & II gullies and ridges; if you are ready to make the leap, join us for a winter climbing adventure.

• Climb grade I/II ridges and gullies
• Learn how to navigate in winter and how to avoid avalanches
• Take an in-depth look at what specialist equipment you need to become a winter mountaineer
• Develop correct technique under the supervision of a qualified instructor
• Book any number of days that suit you or your team

Challenge yourself this winter accompanied by a friendly & fully qualified mountain professional – join Synergy Guides.

Depending on whether you are learning the skills for your own personal Winter Mountaineering with one of our friendly team alongside, or being guided on your first ever winter route we can allow a slightly higher ratio. A 1:3 ratio does mean some routes that are steeper and more serious will be avoided but simple ridges and gullies will all be within our reach. A 1:2 ratio opens up more route options, especially for longer courses or experienced participants. The price includes the use of harnesses and helmets plus the use of all technical equipment such as ropes and hardware. 

Winter Mountaineering – What to expect

Initially, you will speak with your guide a few days prior to the start date. At which point you can agree on a suitable time to meet in the morning, inform them of any kit requirements you have and agree on the planned content for your Scottish Winter Mountaineering course. This will differ for each participant yet almost certainly we will spend a reasonable amount of time discussing avalanche avoidance and winter walking equipment.

Fit and check equipment ready for a day in the winter mountains. Discuss specialist mountaineering equipment including the different types of Crampons, Mountaineering Boots and Ice Axes available.

Discuss and explain how we use the avalanche forecast and recent weather patterns to decide on a suitable climbing venue. Expect to learn about weather conditions, discussing the Be Avalanche Aware platform and using a dynamic risk assessment to decide on a suitable route to ascend.

The main part of your day is focused on the initial plan laid out with your booking and your morning discussion. Your guide will tailor this to meet your aspirations, weather conditions and ability to operate in what can be adverse weather conditions. Previously participants have used their days to learn about snow and its behaviour, how to use crampons to walk on steep ground and emergency ice axe arrest.

Expect to visit many of the classic venues such as Ben Nevis, Glencoe and the Mamores. Winter Mountaineering routes we might climb are; East Ridge of Beinn a Chaorainn, Number 4 Gully, Ledge Route, Schoolhouse Ridge, Summit Gully, NC Gully, The Zig-Zags and the Aonach Eagach.

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