" Many thanks for such a good week of ice and mixed climbing - and thanks for your tuition and patience. I can honestly say, it is a week that I will always remember for the achievements you made possible for me. " SR Ice + Mixed '05
This is a course for climbers with previous Scottish winter climbing experience who want to learn new skills and take on some famous harder routes in the company of our expert staff. During the week, we cover all the ice and mixed climbing skills needed to tackle bigger, more technical objectives.
You can expect to be climbing a variety of ice or mixed routes at grade III/IV.
Each week is tailored to your personal requirements - so we can concentrate on the particular skill areas or styles of climbing that you are most interested in. For lead coaching sessions, you need to book as a team of two - as the guide will be alongside checking placements and giving advice - so you need a belayer too.(see: ice and mixed photos, more scotland photos)
Sample Itinerary Subject to weather and conditions, we follow the general format below:
Day 1
Mon
AM meet in Fort William: discuss plans, kit check and sort equipment - before heading on the hill for a recap of existing skills during the ascent of an ice or mixed route. Coaching in front pointing and the use of 2 tools on steeper terrain.
Days 2-5
Tue - Fri
Ascents of classic grade III/IV ice and mixed routes. Skills covered include:
winter navigation
avalanche avoidance
stance organisation
snow belays
rock and ice anchors
climbing conditions
route selection
retreating safely etc
All skills training takes place in real climbing situations, by incorporating planned learning opportunities into the course of each ascent.
Fri PM - course debrief and advice for the future.
Fitness As with most mountain activities, scottish winter mountaineering can be hard work (see fitness level 3) so we advise you to prepare well in advance with regular cardiovascular exercise and some climbing related training down the wall or gym - as each day on the hill can involve 6-8 hours carrying a 10kg rucsac over steep mountain terrain (keeping this up for 5 days straight definitely requires some background fitness!)
ExperienceYou need good fitness levels and should have climbed Scottish grade II/III previously to get the most out of the week. (see: scottish course suitability)
EquipmentWe will supply you with a full kit list. All communal safety equipment (ropes etc) is provided by us. Clients are responsible for bringing all clothing, personal climbing kit and mountain boots (local hire available).
