Mike Nolan Climbing

Winter Skills in the Cairngorms

Build the skills and confidence to enjoy winter walking in Scotland's mountains

Scotland's winter mountains offer a unique and rewarding experience, but they demand respect and preparation. Based in the Cairngorms, home to some of the most challenging winter conditions in the UK, these courses give you the essential skills and confidence to enjoy winter walking safely.

Whether you're looking to tackle Munros in winter, prepare for alpine adventures, or simply extend your hillwalking season, I offer courses to suit your needs.

Courses

Winter Skills

A comprehensive introduction to safe winter walking in Scotland's mountains.

£220 per person
2 Days Cairngorms
  • Ice axe and crampon use
  • Self-arrest techniques
  • Winter navigation fundamentals
  • Avalanche awareness (using SAIS forecasts)
  • Route planning for winter terrain
  • Emergency procedures and shelter building
  • Movement techniques on snow and ice

Available Dates

28th Feb - 1st Mar 2026
7th - 8th Mar 2026

Prerequisite: Previous hillwalking experience recommended

Book This Course

Winter Navigation for Climbers

Intensive navigation training for competent winter mountaineers planning climbing objectives.

£99 per person
1 Day Cairngorms
  • Timing and pacing in winter conditions
  • Walking on bearings in poor visibility
  • Navigating around avalanche-prone terrain
  • Cornice avoidance techniques
  • Route planning for winter climbing objectives

Available Dates

21st Feb 2026

Prerequisite: Must be comfortable using ice axe and crampons. This course focuses purely on navigation, not basic winter skills.

Book This Course

What's Included

Professional Instruction

Small group sizes (maximum 1:6 ratio) ensure you get the personal attention needed to develop your skills effectively.

Kit List & Advice

A detailed kit list provided on booking. If you're unsure about any equipment, I can advise on suitable options before the course.

Flexible Programme

The course content adapts to conditions and group needs, ensuring you get the most relevant experience for the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if conditions aren't suitable?

Scottish winter conditions can be variable, which is part of the learning experience. The programme is flexible and adapted to conditions. We'll still cover the skills, but the specific venue or focus may change based on snow, weather, and avalanche conditions.

What equipment do I need?

You'll receive a detailed kit list on booking. You'll need your own ice axe, crampons, and winter boots. If you're unsure about any equipment, just ask and I can advise on suitable options.

What fitness level is required?

You should be comfortable walking 6-8 hours in mountain terrain. Check the prerequisites for each course to see if it's right for you.

Where do we meet?

Courses are based in the Aviemore area of the Cairngorms. The exact meeting location will be confirmed before the course, depending on conditions and the day's objectives.

Is accommodation included?

No, accommodation is not included. There are plenty of options in Aviemore and the surrounding area. I'm happy to suggest places to stay if needed.

Book Your Course

Ready to develop your winter skills? Send a message with the course and date you're interested in, and I'll get back to you to confirm availability and next steps.

Thank you! I'll get back to you soon.
Please enter your name
Please enter a valid email address
Please select a course
Please select a date