This year we have two scrambling courses available. An introduction course ideal for those looking to gain confidence in steep ground and easy scrambles, and an improvers course designed for those with prior scrambling experience who wish to further develop their skills, confidence, and decision-making in a safe and supportive environment.
Find out more below:
The course is designed as an introduction to steep mountain and scrambling type terrain for those that want to gain confidence in steep ground and easy scrambles. This course aims to give you the confidence and skills to start tackling those harder to reach areas, as well as enabling you to know what to do if you end up in that ground by mistake.
Aimed at those who regularly ascend Munros (or equivalent) and are used to being off track, on steep/rough terrain.
The course will involve steep rough terrain.
Maximum distance 14km and maximum ascent approximately 900m. Physically demanding.
By the end of the day those on the course should:
New for 2026, the Improvers Scrambling Course is designed for those with prior scrambling experience who wish to further develop their skills, confidence, and decision-making in a safe and supportive environment. It is ideal for anyone who has completed a previous introduction to scrambling course and now wants to prepare for classic Grade 1 mountain scrambles in Scotland.
During the course, participants will develop the techniques and judgement required to safely tackle iconic routes such as the Carn Mor Dearg Arete and Ring of Steall in Lochaber, the Fiacaill Ridge (Grade I variation) in the Cairngorms, and the Liathach and An Teallach Ridges (Grade I variations).
This is not a guiding course, but a practical instructional programme focused on safety, movement skills, hazard awareness, and sound decision-making. Harnesses and ropes will be used when appropriate to enhance safety and support learning, allowing participants to focus on skill development in realistic mountain terrain.
The course aims to build confidence in route choice, movement efficiency, and risk management, helping participants avoid common hazards such as slips, navigation errors, and being caught out by changing conditions. We also provide guidance on recognising when to retreat, adapt plans, or seek the support of a qualified instructor or guide.
Instructor to participant ratio 1:2
Fitness Level 3
Aimed at those who regularly ascend Munros (or equivalent) and are used to being off track, on steep/rough terrain.
The course will involve steep rough terrain.
Maximum distance 14km and maximum ascent approximately 900m. Physically demanding.
We cannot guarantee all skills will be covered, as we would like to cover things well, rather than rushing through to cover everything.
Participants must be happy to move on rough terrain up to simple grade 1 ground.
We will provide helmets and harnesses for the day. However, if you have your own helmet and/or harness then you’re welcome to bring these.
Bookings open soon.
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Why become a member?
To book onto one of our mountain safety courses, you need to be a member of Mountaineering Scotland and at least 18 years old when the course takes place.
Please note:
To book onto one of our mountain safety courses, you need to be a member of Mountaineering Scotland and aged 18 or over.
Thanks to your membership, we can subsidise the costs of our courses and offer you cheaper course prices than most commercial providers.
Please take a look at our booking and cancellation conditions.
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Mountaineering Scotland is a registered trademark of the Mountaineering Council of Scotland Limited
