GUIDED winter Climbing
If you’re keen to experience the thrill of winter climbing without worrying about all the logistics, this is for you. Our Guided Winter & Ice Climbing Days are all about getting out in Scottish Winter with an experienced guide leading the way. We’ll choose the best routes for the conditions and your ability – from classic gullies on Ben Nevis to steep ice lines in the Cairngorms – and take care of the safety, route-finding, and decision-making so you can focus on the fun. You’ll still pick up loads of tips and techniques along the way, but the emphasis is on adventure, confidence, and making the most of the day. When the weather plays ball, we might even offer a day out in North Wales.
Classic Scottish ice & mixed routes
Tailored to your goals &
current conditions.
Coaching on the go
Small tips to help improve technique & efficiency throughout the day.
Route planning & decision making
Learn how guides assess conditions & pick lines. Reading an Avalanche Report on SAIS.
Who is this course for?
Those who’d like to gain experience on steeper winter ground or who want to tick classic Scottish routes with expert guidance.
Anyone who simply wants to enjoy a big winter day out without worrying about logistics.
You should have prior winter mountaineering experience (confident crampon/axe use) & want to move into technical ice or mixed terrain.
You have good fitness, be comfortable with 8–10 hours on mountain terrain, sometimes carrying a full winter kit.
WhAT DO I NEED?
We’re not suggesting you to go out & spend all the money on all the latest technical kit. This is simply a sensible list of items that will help keep you safe & comfortable. Remember, the weather conditions and time of year will play a big part in deciding what you do or don’t need to pack. Ascent Guides is always happy to offer advice or answer any questions you might have about equipment.
COURSE PRICES
We offer three different type of courses. If you can’t find what you are looking for, please contact us for a course tailored to your needs.
1-DAY GUIDING
1:1 RATIO £340
1:2 RATIO £190
(Price Per PErSON, Max. 2 People)
2-DAY GUIDING
1:1 RATIO £659
1:2 RATIO £368
(Price per person, MAX. 2 peoplE)
winter climbs
Ledge Route
BEN NEVIS – SCOTLAND
A fantastic introductory winter mountaineering route on Ben Nevis, Ledge Route offers a brilliant mix of snow slopes, easy mixed ground, & incredible views of the North Face. Graded around II, it’s the perfect first step into more technical winter terrain — big mountain atmosphere without being too intimidating. The final ridge to the summit is a true classic: exposed, scenic, and unforgettable.
TOWER RIDGE
BEN NEVIS – SCOTLAND
One of the great classic ridges of the UK, Tower Ridge is a long, committing line that cuts straight up the North Face of Ben Nevis. At around Grade IV 3, it’s a serious but hugely rewarding climb — weaving through iconic features like the Douglas Gap, the Little Tower, & the famous Tower Gap. A true alpine-style adventure, Tower Ridge offers everything: exposure & a spectacular finish right onto the summit plateau.
THE PUMPKIN
CREAG MEAGAIDH – SCOTLAND
A beautiful classic ice climb on Creag Meagaidh’s Post Face, The Pumpkin offers sustained but friendly ice pitches at around Grade IV 4. It’s a fantastic introduction to true ice climbing — long, varied, & often in great condition. The Pumpkin is one of those routes that perfectly captures the magic of Scottish winter climbing.
Ready to get your axes swinging?
Get in touch with Ascent Guides to check current conditions & availability. Whether you’re chasing a Scottish classic or trying your first ice climb,
we’ll make sure you will have a great day out.
ASCENT GUIDES 