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Advanced Scrambling Courses (Grade 2-3)

Introduction

We offer a range of advanced scrambling courses in Eryri (Snowdonia), the Lake District and in Scotland (usually Glencoe and Ben Nevis).

Dates

In general, we do not schedule these in advance, as we like to make each one bespoke. This is how we adapt them to cater for different levels of ability and experience. However, we do have a limited number of  ‘open’ courses which are available to book on. These are shown in our events calendar.

Purpose

If you have done a few Grade 1 scrambles and want to try routes that are even more adventurous, then you will probably enjoy Grade 2 and Grade 3 scrambles. These are only a little more difficult than Grade 1s, but are a much more serious undertaking.

For many people, Grade 2 and 3s will usually involve the use of a rope, harness and other rock climbing equipment and this course will introduce you to the skills you need to use them. Some of the Scottish scrambles are extremely well known – the Aonach Eagach ridge, Curved Ridge and Tower Ridge on Ben Nevis (to name a few).

Instructor:client ratio

Depending on the aims and routes chosen, there is usually a maximum ratio of 1:2 on this course.

Other courses

If an advanced scrambling course is not what you are looking for, then take a look at some of our other courses:

…or see what our clients say about us.

Two climbers tackling the difficult corner pitch high up on the Dolmen Ridge on Glyder Fach during an advanced scrambling course in Snowdonia

Course Details

Who is the course for?

This course is for those with a reasonable amount of prior scrambling or rock-climbing experience. Additionally, you need to be a fit mountain walker capable of walking long mountain days carrying a moderately heavy rucksack and you need to be confident scrambling on Grade 1 scrambles.

Where is it held?

Our advanced scrambling courses are generally held in the Lake District or Eryri (Snowdonia) and also on the west coast of Scotland, for example Glencoe and Ben Nevis.

How long is the course?

This course is a minimum of one day in duration, but is often booked as a two-day weekend. Even better, we can also run the course for longer periods, perhaps separated by a few days to give time for you to reflect and practice, or run it as a block of days to give you an intensive burst of learning and practical experience.

What does the course cover?

  • What are Grade 2 and Grade 3 scrambles and why are they different?
  • Equipment for advanced scrambles
  • Using a scrambling guidebook
  • Route-finding during the scramble
  • Climbing and movement technique
  • Overview of rope-work to protect scrambles
  • Judgement and decision-making

What equipment is included?

You will need to provide: warm clothing including a waterproof jacket; mountaineering boots; and a rucksack of 30 litres or more. If you have your own helmet and harness then you will probably be more comfortable wearing your own.

We will:-

  • Provide helmets, harnesses and all technical climbing equipment and ropes.
  • Discuss an appropriate kit list when you book.

What does it cost?

“Open” courses are shown in the Calendar along with their prices. A typical 2-day weekend course costs £260 per person (based on a 1:2 ratio).

“Private” bookings for one day start at £235 for one person; and £260 for two people (i.e. £130 per person) etc. From the 4th day, a discounted rate will apply.

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