Cairngorms Winter Skills (2 Days)
The comprehensive weekend immersion. Move beyond the basics to master movement, mountain judgment, and avalanche safety in the heart of the Highlands.
- Meeting in Aviemore
- 9:00 AM Start
- AMI Qualified
- £185 Per Person
Solidify your winter competence
A single day is a primer; two days is where skills become second nature. Our 2-day course is designed for hillwalkers who want the time to practice ice axe arrest, master crampon rhythms, and understand the nuance of winter navigation.
We utilize the Northern Cairngorms—the UK’s most reliable winter classroom—to ensure you face real conditions under the guidance of AMI-qualified professionals.
Why choose 2 days?
- ✓ More Repetition: Build “muscle memory” for safety drills.
- ✓ Deep Nav: Learn to navigate in “whiteout” conditions.
- ✓ Terrain Mastery: Experience a wider variety of snow types.
- ✓ Expert Insights: More 1-to-1 time with your instructor.
The 2-Day Progression
Our syllabus is condition-led, ensuring we spend maximum time on the terrain that offers the best learning on the day.
Foundations & Movement
We start in Aviemore with a tactical briefing. On the hill, we focus on:
- Correct fitting and use of crampons
- Walking rhythms on varied snow angles
- Introduction to the ice axe (carrying & cutting steps)
- Essential Ice Axe Arrest drills
Judgment & Independence
Consolidating movement and moving into technical ground:
- Practical Avalanche Awareness in the field
- Winter Navigation Drills (pacing in poor visibility)
- Route Planning & Hazard Identification on the plateau
- Survival Skills & Emergency Procedures
Arrive with the right kit
Winter hills require specific gear. You will need stiffened B2 or B3 boots, C2 crampons, and a walking axe. Not sure if your gear is right? Explore our expert guides below.
Dates & Booking
Courses run weekly from January to March. We meet at 9:00 AM at Tiso, Aviemore. Price includes expert instruction and all registration fees.
Cairngorms Logistics
- Meet Point: Tiso Aviemore (PH22 1PT)
- Ratio: Max 1:6 (Often 1:4)
- Cancellations: Full refund or date move if weather prevents safe running.
