SCOTTISH

WINTER

winter walking course in cairngorm national park

For summer hill walkers wanting to start out in winter, this course is designed to introduce you to a range of core skills that will enable you to enjoy and move about the UK’s mountains in winter conditions competently and confidently.

THE

DETAILS

COURSE DATES

2025

13-16 Jan

20-23 Jan

2026

19-22 Jan

Every year these dates don’t work for everyone, but if there are 2 of you I can offer this course at dates convenient to us both, just drop me a line at ppmountaineering@me.com with an idea of when works best for you

COST

4 days

£350 per person

Ratio 1:6

HOW TO BOOK

It's simple!

Complete the online booking form and pay a deposit

Make sure you check out the terms and conditions on the Booking Page

Full payment details are on the booking form and you will receive confirmation of your booking, payment received in an auto reply and I will contact you shortly before the course with the final details

SO WHAT'S IT

ALL ABOUT?

Many believe winter is a very special time to be in the mountains, those warm blue skies with perfect snow and ice or the full "white room" experience.

Based in Aviemore in Cairngorms National Park, Britains highest and most massive mountain range, these 4-day courses are perfect for summer mountain walkers looking to progress to being independent winter mountain walkers.

As a winter walker you need a broad range of skills and awareness of the conditions around you, this, of course, will help you develop your judgment and how to make the most of your day.

Over the 4 days, we will look at the following key skills, more importantly putting it all into context by planning a mountain journey as a winter walker.

Equipment selection
Practicing navigational techniques essential for safe travel in winter
Ice axe and crampon work
Self arrest
Efficient use of your boots
Step Cutting
Efficient and safe movement on steep ground
Safe travel in the mountains avoiding unstable slopes
Emergency snow shelters
Planning a day out in winter

CHECK OUT THE LAST TRIPS VIDEO

Scottish Winter

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS...

DO I NEED PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE?

No, apart from being a keen mountain walker. Winter hill walking is arduous so a good level of fitness will allow you to cope with what at times can be harsh and physically demanding conditions, this will help you get the most out of the course.

WHO WILL RUN MY COURSE?

All courses are run by myself, occasionally if I have to use another Instructor then I will inform you of that. I don’t use instructors unknown to me or who aren’t close friends. The small team that I use are equally as qualified, experienced and keen to share their enthusiasm of the mountains in a relaxed and safe manner.

WHAT EQUIPMENT DO I NEED?

All specialist equipment such as crampons, ice axes and helmets can be provided however if you have your any of your own technical gear then you are welcome to bring it along. I will send you a detailed kit list once you confirm your place.

WHERE DO WE MEET?

All my courses are run from Aviemore. I will confirm the time and place when you reserve your place.

WHERE CAN I STAY?

There is a full range of accommodation options in Cairngorm National Park to suit every budget and taste. the ones suggested below operate independently from Paul Poole Mountaineering.

CRUBENBEG HIGHLAND HOLIDAY COTTAGES

highlandholidaycottages.com

01540 673566

AVIEMORE BUNKHOUSE

aviemore-bunkhouse.com

01479 811181

MACDONALD AVIEMORE RESORT

macdonaldhotels.co.uk

WHAT'S INCLUDED?

All instruction and specialist equipment like crampons, ice axes and helmets if required.

WHAT"S NOT INCLUDED

Accommodation

Food

Personal Insurance

Personal equipment

BOOKING?

You will need to complete an online booking form and pay a deposit* of £160 at the time of booking, full payment will need to be completed 90 days prior to the course commencing.

*Non-refundable Deposit, please see Conditions of Booking