Winter Skills Course in Aviemore
Build Your Winter Mountain Skills in the Cairngorms
Winter Skills Courses in the Cairngorms National Park
About this course
Join Hillgoers for a two-day Winter Skills course in Aviemore, learning the essential techniques needed to explore Scotland's mountains more safely and confidently in winter.
Led by qualified instructors, this practical course covers ice axe and crampon techniques, winter navigation, avalanche awareness and safe route planning. You'll also learn how to prepare for winter hillwalking, interpret weather forecasts and make informed decisions in mountain conditions.
Skills are taught during mountain journeys in the Cairngorms, giving you the opportunity to practise in a real winter environment. The programme is flexible and will be adapted to the weather, snow conditions and experience of the group.
Prerequisites
This course is designed for hillwalkers looking to develop their skills in winter conditions. Previous summer hillwalking experience is recommended, along with a good level of fitness for walking in the mountains.
No previous winter walking experience is required.
What We'll Cover (Depending on Conditions)
Choosing suitable clothing and equipment for winter hillwalking
Movement techniques on snow and steep ground
Ice axe techniques, including preventing and arresting slips
Using and walking safely in crampons
Winter navigation techniques
Avalanche awareness and safe route planning
Emergency procedures in winter mountain conditions
Winter kit provided
Use of our crampons, ice axe, and helmet are included in the cost
Starting time
Sat: 08:30 Sun: tbc on Sat
Meeting Point & Location
Meet in Aviemore before travelling approximately 20 minutes to the Cairngorm Mountain area, where our practical winter skills training takes place.
Group size
Limited to 6 participants
If you're a group or an individual and would like to book a private hill day or course please contact us
Additional information
Meet Time & Location
Please meet at the Tiso carpark for 08:30 on day one. We'll start with a coffee and discuss the course plan before heading into the mountains.
Training usually takes place in the Cairngorm Mountain area, approximately 20 minutes from Aviemore. The exact location will depend on the weather, snow and underfoot conditions.
Joining Details & Kit
Full joining instructions and participation forms will be sent before the course.
Hillgoers provides ice axes, crampons and helmets as part of the course. You're welcome to bring your own equipment, but please check with us beforehand if you're unsure whether it's suitable.
You'll need suitable winter mountaineering boots compatible with crampons. These can be hired locally from Tiso in Aviemore, subject to availability. We recommend arranging boot hire in advance.
Please see our full winter kit list for clothing and equipment requirements.
If you have any questions before booking, please contact us.
Our Terms and Conditions apply.
“Edd, my guide, was knowledgeable, patient, and adapted the course perfectly to my beginner level. Would highly recommend for anyone looking to learn winter skills.”
