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Winter Climbing Scotland








    Winter Climbing

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    Smaller group sizes

    Putting local communities first

    Your safety is our number one focus

    Sustainable travel

    Amazing experiences at affordable prices

    Winter in the Scottish Mountains

    Winter in the Scottish mountains is unlike any other season. When the first snows transform the Highlands, familiar hills become wild, white playgrounds. Towering ridges such as Ben Nevis’s Tower Ridge and Ledge Route glisten with rime ice and frost, while dark corries like Glencoe’s Stob Coire nan Lochan fill with deep, frozen gullies. The Cairngorms’granite plateaus turn into an endless expanse of crisp snowpack and wind‑sculpted sastrugi, while the Torridon hills stand out in stark relief above cloud inversions, their sandstone buttresses rimed with hoarfrost. These conditions create an atmosphere of quiet intensity – the crunch of crampons on neve, the sparkle of ice crystals on a bluebird day, the thrill of carving an axe placement into solid ice.

    Climbing in this environment demands different skills and mindset from summer rock climbing. Whereas summer routes might be dry and friendly, winter ascents involve navigating ice‑choked chimneys, negotiating cornices, and dealing with spindrift and gusting winds. Frozen turf, verglas and snow‑covered holds change the way you move; ropes, ice axes and crampons become your tools of trust. Avalanche awareness and weather forecasting take centre stage, and there’s a real sense of commitment when everything around you is locked in ice. Yet with the right training, the reward is immense: a heightened sense of adventure, spectacular vistas of snow‑capped peaks, and the knowledge that you’ve experienced Scotland’s mountains at their most dramatic.

    Is This Course For You?

    You’ll need a good level of fitness and be comfortable spending long days in poor weather to get the most from this course. Ideally you’ll already have some experience moving on snow and ice – basic crampon and ice‑axe skills are essential – but we cater to a range of backgrounds and goals. In particular, we welcome:

    • Hillwalkers and first‑time winter climbers who are curious about technical climbing in snow and ice. If you’ve enjoyed summer scrambles and want to take your first steps onto graded winter routes, we’ll introduce you to the core skills and guide you safely up classic grade I–II lines.
    • Summer rock climbers looking for a guided winter experience. If you climb in the warmer months but haven’t yet transitioned to leading or seconding in winter, you don’t need to feel pressure to learn everything at once. We’re happy to guide you up spectacular winter routes, so you can enjoy the adventure and the unique atmosphere without taking on all the technical ropework yourself.
    • Improvers with some winter mileage who want to refine their technique and tackle steeper mixed or ice climbs. We’ll focus on efficient movement, placing protection, building anchors and making sound decisions on grade II–III routes.
    • Aspirants aiming for independence, whether that’s leading grade III/IV routes or preparing for bigger alpine adventures. We’ll work with you to develop the full toolkit: route planning, avalanche awareness, belay management and ropework, so you leave ready to take the sharp end with confidence.

    The Course

    On our winter climbing course you’ll get far more than a guided ascent. We aim to climb classic Scottish winter routes while developing the knowledge and confidence you need to enjoy them safely – whether you hope to become an independent winter climber or simply want to experience iconic climbs under the guidance of an expert.

    Throughout the course we blend practical climbing with skills sessions tailored to your goals. We’ll cover:

    • Route choice and weather: understanding forecasts, reading snow and ice conditions, and selecting objectives that suit your experience.
    • Safe travel and avalanche awareness: planning safe approaches and descents, evaluating terrain, and minimising exposure to avalanche and other winter hazards.
    • Efficient movement: footwork on snow, ice and mixed ground, using two technical axes and crampons effectively, and climbing smoothly to conserve energy.
    • Anchors and protection: selecting and placing winter anchors (ice screws, slings, rock gear and snow anchors), building secure belays, and assessing their quality.
    • Rope and stance management: tying in, pitching routes efficiently, setting up belay stances, managing ropes on mixed terrain, and retreating safely if conditions change.

    No previous winter climbing experience is necessary – we’ll teach all the skills you need from the ground up. The emphasis is hands‑on, and you can expect to spend plenty of time on real winter climbs.

    As every climber’s aspirations differ, our courses are bespoke. We can focus on coaching you toward independence, or if you’d prefer a guided experience up classic routes with minimal technical instruction, we’re happy to tailor the day accordingly. Choose anything from a one‑day introduction to a full week, and we’ll match the instruction, venues and climbing objectives to your existing experience, interests and the prevailing conditions.

    Best Time to Go

    The Scottish winter climbing season depends entirely on weather and snow conditions rather than fixed dates.  Major venues such as the north face of Ben Nevis are reliably in condition by January and usually stay so for a few months .  Most climbers therefore treat January, February and March as the core season; local guides and travel publications note that the ice‑climbing season typically runs from January through March .  February and early March often offer the most stable snow and ice, longer daylight and “alpine” conditions , but early January can be excellent when there has been sustained cold weather.

    Outside this core window, conditions become more variable.  There is often a cold snap in November or December that can create good early-season routes ; however, these spells are short and unpredictable, so we only take late‑notice bookings in December once we know there are climbable winter conditions.  At the other end of the season, late March into April can produce wonderful spring snow with quieter hills and longer days , but temperatures rise quickly and routes can strip overnight.  If you’re flexible and can travel at short notice, contact us about possible December or April dates; otherwise, we recommend planning your course for January, February or March.

    Why Winter Climb with Monkey Mountaineering

    Monkey Mountaineering is a small, independent company that puts quality of experience ahead of volume.  Our winter courses are led by fully qualified guides who know Scotland’s mountains intimately and tailor each day to match your abilities and ambitions .  We keep ratios low – typically no more than two clients per instructor – so you receive personalised coaching, focused attention on safety, and the flexibility to adjust objectives to the weather and conditions .  Whether you want to learn the skills to climb independently or simply be guided up classic routes, we build a programme around you, from one‑day taster sessions to multi‑day adventures .

    We’re also committed to doing things the right way.  Your safety is always our priority, but we also work hard to minimise our environmental impact, support local communities and offer exceptional value .  With Monkey Mountaineering you can expect expert instruction, small group sizes, and sustainable travel practices alongside unforgettable days on Scotland’s winter cliffs .

    Useful Resources

    Here are some useful resources that you can access to help you plan your winter mountain adventures:

    • Avalanche forecasts – The sportscotland Scottish Avalanche Information Service (SAIS) issues daily forecastsof avalanche, snow and climbing conditions for six Scottish regions during the winter .  Their website and app provide up‑to‑date reports, hazard assessments and slope‑angle tools .  Always check the SAIS report for your chosen area before setting off.
    • Avalanche awareness training – A free, digital ‘Be Avalanche Aware’ training resource is available through the Snow and Avalanche Foundation of Scotland (SAFOS) and Mountaineering Scotland .  This self‑guided course explains how to recognise avalanche hazards and plan safer routes .
    • Mountain weather forecasts – The Mountain Weather Information Service (MWIS) provides detailed, safety-focused forecasts for ten upland regions across the UK .  The reports highlight how wind, precipitation and temperature will affect mountain users and flag potential severe conditions .  Use MWIS alongside general forecasts to plan your days.
    • Further skills & safety guidance – Mountaineering Scotland’s ThinkWINTER campaign offers articles and videos on winter navigation, clothing, emergency beacons and hypothermia .  The British Mountaineering Council (BMC) has an avalanche-awareness section covering hazard identification, route planning and decision‑making .  These resources complement our own instruction and help you stay safe and informed in the winter mountains.

    Every winter course we run is bespoke, but to give you a feel for how the week might build in difficulty, here is an example progression:

    • Day 1 – Classic gully to refresh skills (Grade II). We often begin in the Northern Corries with an accessible gully such as The Runnel (Grade II).  This 120 m gully between Aladdin’s and Fluted Buttress is a classic winter line; it offers good gear on either side and usually forms a short icy chimney to finish .  It’s ideal for revisiting crampon technique, snow anchors and avalanche awareness.
    • Day 2 – Steeper climbing and better protection (Grade III). We then move onto a route like Hidden Chimneyon the Mess of Pottage.  Hidden Chimney is a classic guiding route whose last two pitches provide the crux climbing at grade III; the hooks on these pitches are excellent and the route is well protected .  Here you’ll practise placing rock and ice gear, building belays and moving efficiently on steeper mixed ground.
    • Day 3 – Technical mixed or ice route (Grade IV). With the basics dialled, we step up to a more demanding climb.  Options include Invernookie or Fingers Ridge.  Invernookie (Coire an t’ Sneachda) follows a series of ramps above Fiacaill Couloir and is graded IV/5 under powder ; the difficulties ease in better conditions.  Fingers Ridge is a photogenic rib that makes a great introduction to grade IV/V climbing .  Either of these routes will test your protection placements, ropework and movement on mixed terrain.
    • Day 4 – Big mountaineering objective (Grade IV). To finish, we choose a longer, more committing climb such as Tower Ridge on Ben Nevis.  Tower Ridge is one of Scotland’s grandest winter routes and is graded IV, 3 .  It combines wall, ridge and traverse climbing and includes notorious cruxes like the Eastern Traverse and Tower Gap.  The length and exposure make it a fitting culmination to the week and require efficient rope management and decision‑making.

    This progression builds from a straightforward gully to steeper mixed climbing and culminates on a classic grade‑IV mountaineering route.  The exact objectives may change depending on conditions and your aspirations, but the emphasis is always on increasing challenge and helping you develop the full skillset for independent winter climbing.

    Dates & Prices

    We run our Winter Climbing courses during the main Scottish winter season, January through March, with start dates arranged around your availability. For late‑notice bookings in December and April we monitor conditions closely and only confirm once routes are in condition . You can book from one to five days (or more) depending on your goals and available time.

    Courses are priced at £325 per day for up to two people, and each additional day costs £325. Larger groups can contact us for a tailored quote. This pricing reflects the value of a private guide, a bespoke itinerary and the use of all technical equipment. Please contact us to check availability or discuss a package tailored to your experience level and ambitions.

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    Included in the price of this trip

    • Professional guiding and instruction with fully qualified and experienced guides
    • Maximum ratio of 1:2 to ensure safety and increase learning opportunities
    • All technical equipment including ropes

    Not included

    • Travel to or from the course venue
    • Your accommodation before, during and after the course
    • Meals and drinks before, during and after the course
    • Personal travel insurance (to cover you for cancellation, accident, health, emergency evacuation and loss, theft of or damage to baggage and personal effects etc)
    • Personal equipment (please see our clothing and equipment section)

    Essential Clothing & Equipment

    • Boots B2

      A good pair of B2 boots which provide ankle support, are insulated and crampon compatable and are well broken-in. B2 boots are the most suitable. Boots are essential - Please ask if you are unsure what boots to bring.

    • Boots B3

      B3 boots have a rigid sole and are compatible with C3 crampons - they are ideal for winter climbing. Please ask if you are unsure what boots to bring.

    • Buff

      Essential for helping to keep the sun off your neck at lower altitudes, protecting from dust and wind and as neck/face protection higher up.

    • Climbing Harness - Standard

      These are available to hire for a small fee – please enquire.

    • Compass

      A silva compass for navigating with

    • Crampons - C3

      12 point mountaineering crampons with anti-balling plates. Ideally these will have a rigid toe and heal bale as opposed to flexible bindings and will be a good fit to your expedition/B3 boots.

    • Dry Bags

      A selection of rucksack liners and dry bags as required to keep your clothing, sleeping bag and equipment dry and organised.

    • Fleece or Soft Shell Layer

      This can be a fleece jumper or fleece jacket or a soft shell jacket.

    • Gilet

      This is an optional item but a good choice as an extra layer to keep your core warm. Any gilet you choose should be low volume (not bulky) down, primaloft or fleece.

    • Gloves

      A lightweight windproof pair of gloves for wearing on a daily basis as required.

    • Hiking Socks

      We recommend a good pair of proper hiking/trekking socks. A minimum of three pairs but ideally you should have a pair for each day.

    • HMS Karabiners

      These should be locking Karabiners – you will need a minimum of 2.

    • Insulated Jacket

      Can be down or synthetic.

    • Liner Gloves

      Thin silk/wool/polypropylene liner gloves – 2 pairs.

    • Long-Sleeved Thermal Top

      Essential base layer for colder days and nights. Pack at least 2 of these.

    • Mid-Layer

      Lightweight microfleece or something similar is ideal as a mid-layer. You should bring two mid-layer tops – tops with zips allow ventilation and are often better than round neck tops.

    • Mittens

      Expedition standard modular mittens with a warm fleece lined inner and a durable windproof/waterproof outer shell. Ideally your mittens will also have wrist straps.

    • Outer Gloves

      These should fit over your liner gloves and be fleece lined with a durable windproof/waterproof outer shell. Ideally they will have wrist straps.

    • Personal First Aid Kit

      This should include suncream, lip balm, blister plasters (compeed), plasters, painkillers and any prescription medicines, insect repellant etc.

    • Sling 120cm

      1 x 120cm sling.

    • Snow Goggles

      For protecting your eyes on glaciers and/or travelling in snowy winter conditions.

    • Soft Shell Trousers

      These should be insulated/fleece lined for winter use.

    • Soft-Shell Jacket

      Make sure it is insulated and, importantly, windproof (not all soft-shell jackets are windproof).

    • Sunglasses

      For general eye protection, wearing whilst trekking or on glaciers if applicable to your trip – for wearing on glaciers sunglasses need to be Category 4 and be close fitting or have side protection.

    • Technical Climbing Axes

      A pair of climbing axes, one with a hammer and one with an adze - please ask if you aren't sure.

    • Thermal Long Johns

      1 pair, for wear at high altitude an/or whilst sleeping.

    • Warm Layer

      This can be a fleece jumper, fleece jacket or lightweight duvet/insulated jacket.

    • Water Bottle

      At higher altitudes your Camelbak may freeze and so it is a good idea to have a 1 litre Nalgene type bottle. Also great for events like the Cuillin ridge Traverse.

    • Waterproof Jacket

      Hard shell jacket ideally this will be waterproof and breathable (GoreTex or equivalent) and it will have a hood.

    • Waterproof Trousers

      Ideally they should be windproof and breathable (Gore Tex or equivalent) and with full or ¾ length side zips.

    • Woolly hat

      To keep your head warm - Ideally a hat that will cover your ears too and fit under a climbing helmet.

    Optional Clothing & Equipment

    • Belay Device

      A tube type Belay device is best - Our guide will provide this if required

    • Mobile Phone

      You may want to use you phone as a camera. On our overseas trips signal is often limited or non-existent so making calls or sending texts may not be possible - see FAQs for trip specific info.

    • Small Stainless Steel Flask

      Useful for hot drinks during the day/night

    • Walking poles

      Not essential but extremely useful when carrying a load, descending and for any river crossings.

    Paperwork

    • Booking Confirmation

      This will be sent to you aproximately 10 days before departure

    Carbon Footprint

    We are yet to determine the average CO2 emissions per person for our Winter Climbing courses.

    What are we doing about it

    As a responsible adventure company, we’re committed to understanding and reducing the environmental impact of our treks. We favour local supply chains, low-impact accommodation, and foot-powered travel wherever possible. In addition, we encourage all our trekkers to offset their emissions through certified schemes and consider more sustainable travel options where available.

    By trekking mindfully, supporting local communities, and respecting the fragile mountain environment, we can ensure that these incredible landscapes remain unspoiled for generations to come.

    FAQs

    No, unfortunately we don’t currently provide equipment for hire but can recommend Expedition Kit Hire.

    Yes, taking photos is an absolute must! We do however advise you only to take a small camera as the extra weight of large SLR type cameras and accessories can all add up. Any extra weight will contribute to a more difficult day and possibly affect your balance on any tricky/technical sections.

    A deposit of 25% of the total cost of the trip/course is payable at the time of booking and the balance is due 8 weeks before the departure date. If the booking takes place less than 8 weeks before departure, then the full amount is due at the time of booking. If you would like to discuss payment options, then please get in touch.

    A comprehensive list of clothing and equipment required for your trip can be found by visiting the ‘Kit List” tab on the relevant experience.

    Have you ever dreamed of scaling awesome Himalayan peaks and trekking through rugged mountain landscapes?  Well, Monkey Mountaineering is your gateway to adventure, connecting fearless adventurers with unforgettable experiences in some of the world’s most stunning locations.  But what exactly is Monkey Mountaineering, and what makes it unique?

    A Passion for Adventure

    At its core, Monkey Mountaineering is about creating life-changing journeys for explorers who want more than just a typical holiday.  Founded by British Army veteran Sam Marshall, Monkey Mountaineering brings a legacy of discipline, resilience, and expertise to every expedition.  Specialising in small group, mountain-based adventure travel, we offer expertly crafted itineraries combining the thrill of outdoor activities with cultural immersion and respect for the environment.  Whether it’s mountaineering or trekking, our trips are designed to challenge and inspire.

    Our Mission

    Our mission is simple:  to provide safe, sustainable, and unforgettable adventure experiences that promote a deep connection with nature and local communities.  Every expedition is designed around three key principles:

    • Safety First: The safety of our customers is our top priority.  Our guides are highly trained, and every trip is planned with comprehensive risk assessments and emergency procedures.
    • Sustainability: We are committed to leaving no trace.  We are in the process of aligning our operations with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs), and we are actively working to reduce our carbon footprint.
    • Community Connection: Adventure isn’t just about the landscapes; it’s about the people.  We use local guides and support agencies, source local produce, and strive to ensure that our trips contribute positively to the regions we visit.

    What We Offer

    Monkey Mountaineering offers a variety of trips tailored to different skill levels, interests, and destinations.  Here’s a peek at what you can expect:

    • Mountaineering Adventures: Scale iconic peaks with our expert-led climbing expeditions.
    • Trekking Journeys: Explore remote trails, from lush mountain forests to rugged alpine deserts, and witness the beauty of the great outdoors.
    • Custom and Private Trips: Looking for something unique? We’ll work with you to design a personalized adventure that meets your goals and interests.
    • UK Adventures and Skills Training: Want to learn the skills to have your own adventures?  We offer all levels of mountain-based skills training for beginners and seasoned adventurers as well as UK based guiding.

    Why Choose Monkey Mountaineering?

    We’re not just another adventure travel company.  Here’s what sets us apart:

    • Veteran Expertise: Founded by a British Army Veteran, we bring unparalleled leadership, problem-solving, and operational excellence to every expedition.
    • Commitment to Standards: We strive to achieve the highest industry standards, complying with the Package Travel Regulations and aligning to British Standard 8848, ensuring that your trip is safe, ethical, and well-organised.
    • Focus on Sustainability: From eco-friendly practices to supporting local economies, we make responsible travel a priority.
    • Personalized Service: From your first inquiry to post-trip follow-ups, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

    Join Us on an Adventure

    Monkey Mountaineering isn’t just about reaching summits; it’s about the journey, the camaraderie, and the stories you take home.  Whether you’re an experienced mountaineer or a first-time adventurer, we invite you to explore the world with us.  Unleash your inner explorer and let’s make your adventure dreams a reality.

    Ready to take the leap? Contact us today to find your next great adventure!

    Please refer to our Booking Conditions which can be found here. Alternatively, please feel free to contact a member of the team.

    Who’s Behind Monkey Mountaineering?

    Meet Sam Marshall: The Veteran Mountaineer Behind Monkey Mountaineering

    Every great adventure company has a story and a purpose — and for Monkey Mountaineering, it all starts with Sam Marshall, a seasoned mountaineer, passionate explorer, and proud British Army veteran. If you’re curious about our mission, you can also read What is Monkey Mountaineering?.

    After nearly three decades of service in the Army, including 22 years as an aircraft engineer and senior leader in high-pressure environments, Sam swapped helicopters and hangars for high peaks and remote trails. His mission? To share the life-changing power of the mountains with everyone, from first-time trekkers to seasoned climbers.

    A Life of Service and Adventure

    Sam’s love for the mountains was forged long before Monkey Mountaineering began. During his Army years, he thrived in extreme conditions, mastering leadership, teamwork, and meticulous planning in some of the world’s toughest environments.

    Sam Marshall guiding a climber through the Window on Sgurr nan Gillean, Isle of Skye

    Sam Marshall — founder of Monkey Mountaineering — guiding through the iconic Window on Sgurr nan Gillean.

    These skills laid the foundations for leading safe, inspiring mountaineering expeditions today.

    Leaving military life didn’t dampen his appetite for challenge — it fuelled a new purpose: helping others discover what’s possible when you push beyond your comfort zone. That vision is alive in every Monkey Mountaineering trip.

    The Monkey Mountaineering Difference

    Monkey Mountaineering isn’t just another adventure company. Under Sam’s watchful eye, every expedition is planned with military-level care and the robust safety standards of British Standard 8848. But adventure, for Sam, goes beyond risk management — it’s about growth, connection, and perspective. He believes time in the mountains has the power to build resilience, spark confidence, and reconnect people with the wild and with each other.

    More Than Mountains: A Legacy of Respect

    Sustainability and community matter too. Sam ensures Monkey Mountaineering operates responsibly, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, employing local guides, and championing the Leave No Trace ethos. It’s adventure done right — for you and for the places you explore.

    Unleash Your Inner Explorer

    When you choose Monkey Mountaineering, you’re not just booking a trip — you’re joining a mission led by someone who knows that the real summit is within you. Whether you’re climbing Kilimanjaro, trekking to Everest Base Camp, or tackling a UK classic, Sam’s no-nonsense approach, warmth, and experience mean you’re in safe hands every step of the way.

    Ready to find out what you’re capable of?
    Learn more about who we are or join Sam Marshall and the Monkey Mountaineering team — and unleash your inner explorer.

    Venturing into the mountains or taking part in rock, ice or mixed climbing brings with it a certain amount of risk. To minimise these risks, we often deploy ropes to keep each other safe – you will need a harness to attach yourself safely to the rope. The mountain and crag environment is littered with loose rock so we always advise on a helmet to help protect your head from any falling objects.

    Monkey Mountaineering is a family-run, veteran-owned business built on many years of professional mountaineering and guiding experience. We work with fully qualified instructors and guides and place safety, professionalism and good judgement at the centre of everything we do.

    Whether you are joining one of our UK mountaineering courses and guided climbs or taking part in one of our international trekking and expedition experiences, we operate with small group sizes and low guide-to-client ratios. This allows us to provide a safer, more personal experience and ensures that each trip can be tailored around the ability, experience and goals of the people taking part.

    On our overseas expeditions, such as the Everest Base Camp Trek or our Mera Peak expedition, we focus on careful planning, sensible acclimatisation schedules and strong local partnerships. This approach improves both safety and success while supporting the communities that make these adventures possible.

    We are also committed to responsible mountain travel. Our trips follow Leave No Trace principles, and we actively encourage practices that minimise environmental impact while maximising positive benefits for local communities.

    Our aim is simple: to deliver well-managed mountain experiences that are safe, rewarding and responsibly run.

    Walking poles are not mandatory, but many people do use them to help reduce the pressure on knees or help with balance. If you regularly use walking poles then please feel free to bring them with you.

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    Bespoke experiences

    Can’t see what you are looking for? All our trips can be customised to meet your needs so, if you need bespoke dates, want to add extra days, or modify the itinerary then please just let us know – we will be happy to help.

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