2 Day Winter Skills Course, Scotland
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Build Confidence In Scotland's Winter Mountains
Our 2 day winter skills course is for hill walkers, scramblers and aspiring mountaineers who want the skills, confidence and judgement to travel safely in winter mountain terrain.
Day one covers the core skills: crampons, ice axe use and self-arrest. Day two puts them to work on a full winter mountain day, with winter navigation and decision making. New to winter? You can start with the 1 day winter skills course, or see all our winter skills courses.
- Course name
- Location
- Cost
- Ratio:
- Duration
- 2027 Dates
- 2 Day Winter Skills Course
- Scottish Highlands
- £240 per person
- 1:5
- 2 Days
- 16th - 17th Jan | 30th - 31st | 6th -7th Feb
Suitable for
- Hill walkers
- Scramblers
- Aspiring mountaineers
- Individuals preparing for winter mountain adventures
- People looking to progress beyond introductory winter skills
- Anyone wanting to become more confident in winter terrain
Why Take a 2 Day Winter Skills Course
Winter mountain skills take time to develop.
While a one-day course provides an excellent introduction, two days allows for more practice, greater understanding and a much stronger foundation.
You'll have more time to refine techniques, ask questions and apply your learning in a range of winter conditions.
For most people looking to begin winter mountaineering, this is the course we recommend.
Skills You'll Develop
Winter Movement Skills: Develop efficient movement techniques on snow and ice while improving balance, confidence and energy efficiency.
Advanced Crampon TechniquesLearn how to adapt your crampon technique to different terrain, gradients and snow conditions.
Ice Axe Skills: Develop confidence using an ice axe for security, balance and self-arrest while travelling through winter terrain.
Self-Arrest Practice Learn and practise self-arrest techniques in a controlled environment, helping you understand how to react effectively in the event of a slip.
Winter Navigation Develop navigation strategies for poor visibility, snow-covered terrain and complex winter environments.
Winter Decision Making Learn how to assess conditions, recognise hazards and make informed decisions while travelling in winter mountains.
Day One
Building Strong Foundations
The first day focuses on introducing and refining the core skills required for winter mountain travel.
Topics may include:
- Winter equipment
- Crampon fitting and use
- Ice axe skills
- Winter movement techniques
- Self-arrest introduction
- Terrain assessment
- Winter hazards
The aim is to establish strong foundations and build confidence using winter equipment.
Day Two
Applying Your Skills In The Mountains
The second day focuses on applying the skills learned during day one in a more realistic mountain environment.
Topics may include:
- Route choice
- Winter navigation
- Movement on steeper terrain
- Snow assessment
- Mountain decision making
- Winter journey planning
- Hazard awareness
This practical day helps consolidate your learning while developing confidence and independence.
Winter skills courses
Why Choose North West Mountain Guides?
Hi, I'm Jack, founder of North West Mountain Guides and a qualified Mountaineering and Climbing Instructor (MCI). All winter skills courses are led by a qualified Winter Mountain Leader or aboveÂ
Winter is one of my favourite times to be in the mountains. The combination of snow, ice and changing conditions creates a unique environment that rewards good judgement, preparation and strong mountain skills.
My aim is to provide practical, enjoyable instruction that helps people develop confidence and competence while building a solid foundation for future winter adventures.
- Qualified Mountaineering & Climbing Instructor (MCI)
- Small Group & Private Courses
- Scottish Highlands Instruction
- Practical Winter Mountaineering Skills
- Focus on Confidence, Safety & Progression
- Equipment advice before you book
