Ellis Brigham

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Introduction to Winter Walking - winter walking skills in Scotland



The course is based from the homely and friendly atmosphere of Fraoch Lodge in the CairngormNational Park.

We start with the ongoing process of avalanche hazard evaluation and good foot placement (step kicking and cutting), then move onto self belay (preventing a loss of footing developing into a sliding fall) and then the techniques to arrest sliding falls, both with and without an axe. The relevant use of emergency snow shelters is also covered.

Day 3 is a low level navigation day covering a lot of techniques. It acts both as a bit of a physical rest day as well as introducing flexibility into the week to accommodate winter storms. Early on the importance of contour interpretation is introduced and related to attaining a high level of accuracy. Along with looking at compass techniques and micro-navigation (timing and pacings) a whole number of other skills are covered especially those that negate the effect of error.
The last 2 days are spent consolidating what we’ve learnt in the context of a mountain journeys across the high tops of the Cairngorms. Further time is given to route planning and we work on the vital but subtle skill of recognising contour features from the map that can act as navigational objectives (way-marking points) on the ground. Compass bearings and timing and pacing techniques are practised repeatedly during the course of the day whilst always relating ones position to the lie of the land (gradient and slope aspect).

vital statistics

  • Highlights: This is the passport to the winter mountains. Along with looking at all the vital ice axe and crampon techniques, we thoroughly cover navigating in winter white-outs.


  • Price: £585.00 to £585.00
  • Price is per person for package

  • Price Includes: Accommodation, All taxes, Guide, All transport during trip, Arrival/departure transfers, Activities as per itinerary, Instruction, Meals as indicated
  • Meals: All Meals
  • Duration: 5 days
  • Comfort Level: Mid-Range
  • General Notes: Price Includes All Accommodation Etc. You Will Need To Provide Your Own Personal Equipment For Walking Including Specialised Winter Gear. We Can Arrange For Hire Of Winter Boots, Crampons And Ice Axe, But This Is Not Included In The Price Of The Course. Dates Available: 22nd January 2012 - 26th January 2012 12th February 2012 - 16th February 2012


  • Action Grade: Active - You will be on the go most of the time.
  • Suitable for: Beginners, Intermediate
  • Where:

    Europe

    - Scotland
    -- Scottish Highlands
    --- Aviemore
    --- Cairngorm National Park

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comfort zone   read more about your accommodation +

  • Comfort level: Basic , Mid-Range , Luxury
  • Fraoch Lodge is run along the lines of a fully catered ski chalet. The owners and your guide live on the premises so are always on hand to help. We pride ourselves on our hospitality, the charm of the property and the quality of our catering. We don't do gourmet; we do feasts! A great atmosphere for your winter walking holiday in Scotland.
  • Rooms: Single, Double, Towels provided, Internet access
  • Room facilities notes: Towels are provided on request in accordance with our environmental policy. Hand basins are provided in each room.
  • Property: Garden/Terrace, Lounge, Cutlery, Equipment storage available, Tuition / courses can be arranged, Guides / tours can be arranged, Equipment hire can be arranged, Glassware, Crockery, Kettle, Toaster, Microwave, Dishwasher, Freezer, Fridge, Hob/Cooker, Oven, Ironing board/iron, Clothes dryer, Washing machine
  • We have a dedicated drying room with a dehumidifier and heaters to make sure that you go out every day with dry kit. We also have daily mountain weather forecasts and our guide lives on site so is always available to advise you of extra activities or routes for your days off.

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