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Scotland Winter Skills Weekend
Trip Highlights
Master the essential skills of winter mountaineering, from ice axe use to crampon techniques, in the wild Scottish Highlands.
Learn vital avalanche awareness, route planning and weather analysis to build confidence in challenging winter conditions.
Train in the iconic Cairngorms National Park, surrounded by towering peaks, snowfields and breathtaking winter landscapes.
Tackle real-world winter challenges with expert instructors, from emergency procedures to navigation in whiteout conditions.
Prepare for high-altitude summits like Island Peak, Mera Peak or a winter Toubkal asscent by experiencing the demands of true winter mountaineering.
What's Included
- Professional, experienced mountain guides
- All group safety equipment included
- All hire of crampons, ice axes and helmets included
- Shared accommodation for 3 nights in local bunkhouse or similar
- 3 Full day activities and instruction
- Help & Advice on all aspects of your trek
Difficulty:
Moderate
How challenging is the trek?
The EverTrek Scotland Winter Skills Course is a challenging but massively rewarding adventure in the stunning Cairngorms National Park, Scotland. Over three full days you’ll get hands-on with the essential winter mountaineering skills needed for big trips like Island Peak, Mera Peak, or even Mount Toubkal in winter conditions.
You’ll be learning real mountain skills in a real mountain environment where the Scottish winter weather is famously wild and changeable. Snow, ice, strong winds, and tough conditions are part of the experience and part of what makes this training so valuable.
It’s a physical challenge, with full mountain days carrying a loaded pack, but it’s achievable for trekkers who are fit, prepared, and ready to embrace winter conditions.
Pre-Course Fitness Prep
To get the most from the course, you should be able to:
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Hike for 6 to 8 hours a day with a 6 to 10kg pack across steep, rough, snowy terrain
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Be comfortable trekking in cold, windy, and snowy conditions
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Train with hill walking, endurance hikes, weighted pack sessions, and ideally some work on uneven, rocky terrain
You don’t need to be an expert climber or mountaineer, but a good base of fitness and mountain sense will help you focus more on learning skills rather than just surviving the conditions.
What to expect during the course
Mountain Challenges
The Cairngorms are no joke in winter, think deep snow, ice-covered trails, freezing temperatures, and rapidly changing weather. You'll be getting properly stuck into winter mountaineering conditions.
You'll cover:
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Personal movement on snow and ice (including crampon and ice axe use)
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Route planning and winter navigation
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Avalanche awareness and emergency procedures
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How to stay safe and make good decisions in a winter mountain environment
The days are full and physical, and you’ll learn by doing, not sitting in a classroom.
Duration
The full course runs over four days, with three full mountain days:
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Thursday evening: Arrival, team meet-up, dinner, and kit check
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Friday and Saturday: Full days on the mountain, learning and developing your winter skills
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Sunday: A final half-day focusing on emergency scenarios, avalanche awareness, and a proper debrief (preferably with cake)
Expect to spend 6 to 8 hours on your feet each day during the full days, with early starts and plenty of time on the snow.
Terrain
The training grounds are the Cairngorms and surrounding Scottish Highlands:
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Steep mountain slopes, snowy ridges, icy patches, and rocky terrain
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Use of crampons, ice axes, harnesses, and winter gear is essential
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No technical climbing involved but some scrambling and steeper sections depending on conditions
The terrain will be chosen each day based on the latest weather and avalanche forecasts, ensuring safety while maximising learning opportunities.
Weather
Expect true Scottish winter conditions:
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Snow, high winds, low visibility, and freezing temperatures are all possible, often in the same day
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Layering, waterproofing, and cold-weather gear are critical
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Some days can be glorious bluebird days... others will be full "Type 2 Fun" in a whiteout
The ability to adapt and stay positive whatever the weather is all part of the adventure.
The EverTrek Scotland Winter Skills Course is the perfect stepping stone if you’re preparing for high altitude and trekking expeditions in winter or cold conditions. It’s not just about ticking off a summit - it’s about learning the skills that could make a massive difference when you’re out on big mountains later on.
You'll leave with new techniques, better mountain sense, greater confidence and an awesome experience under your belt in one of the most beautiful (and wildest) corners of the UK.
Essential Kit
Take a look at the recommended essential kit below to ensure you're fully equipped and ready to enjoy your trip to the fullest. A full and detailed packing list can be downloaded.
Waterproof jacket
a versatile gore-tex or similar material jacket is ideal for year round walking, hiking and trekking in the roughest weather.
Latok Mountain GORE-TEX© Pro Jacket
Insulated jacket
A down or synthetic insulated jacket is a must for sub-zero conditions.
Montane Anti-Freeze XT Down Hoodie
Sleeping bag
A warm and reliable down-filled sleeping bag is essential for multi-day trekking or backpacking adventures.
Rab Ascent 700
Base layer top
A warm and breathable long-sleeve base layer, combining materials like Merino wool and synthetic fibres, helps regulate body temperature in various outdoor conditions.
Helly Hansen Lifa Merino Midweight
Trekking shorts
Lightweight and durable walking shorts are ideal for fast-paced mountain hikes.
Montane’s Tenacity Lite
Trekking trousers
Tough, lightweight and versatile trousers are perfect for a range of outdoor activities.
Montane Terra Pants
Trekking poles
Lightweight yet sturdy walking poles help with balance and reduce strain on steep or uneven terrain.
Leki Khumbu Lite poles
Leggings
Lightweight leggings with moisture-wicking fabrics are ideal for active use.
The North Face Flex High Rise Leggings
Technical T-shirt
A moisture-wicking technical tee is essential for active days in the hills.
Rab Force T-Shirt
Hiking boots
Supportive and grippy walking boots are key for long hikes and rugged trails.
Salomon Quest 4 GTX boots
Daypack
A 30-35L daypack is a great size for longer hikes or overnight trips.
Osprey Talon 33
Fleece mid layer
A soft, insulating fleece is great for layering on cooler days.
The North Face Cornice II
Warm beanie
A warm and comfortable beanie is ideal for cold weather walks or everyday use.
Mountain Equipment Humbolt Beanie
Hydration reservoir
A 2-3L hydration bladder helps you stay hydrated on the move.
Osprey Hydraulics 3L Reservoir
Water bottle
A durable, wide-mouth bottle is handy for refilling on the go.
Nalgene’s Sustain 1L Water Bottle
Waterproof gloves
Warm, waterproof gloves are essential for wet and cold mountain days.
Montane Respond Dry Line
Headtorch
A compact and bright headtorch is important for early starts or late finishes.
Petzl Tikka 350L
Waterproof overtrousers
Durable and lightweight waterproof trousers are essential for protection in heavy rain and wet conditions.
Berghaus Men’s Deluge Pro 2.0 Overtrousers
Hiking socks
A good pair of merino-blend walking socks helps keep feet warm and comfortable on long walks.
Bridgedale Merino Hiker socks
Sustainable Tourism
Because we only use local guiding teams it ensures your trip directly benefits the local mountain communities.
What customers say about us
4-Day Scotland Winter Skills Weekend Itinerary
You will meet up with your mountain guide and the rest of the other EverTrekkers for an evening meal before we finish with a briefing and kit check before the first proper day starts early tomorrow morning.
Today is your first day in the Scottish mountains with the EverTrek guiding team. You will learn about the core aspects of winter mountaineering whilst on a trekking route in the mountains, getting onto your Crampons and using an Ice Axe. The route will be dependent on the weather and snow conditions(Fingers Crossed) but will be a full winter mountain day.
An evening spent at the accommodation refuelling and hydrating for another long day tomorrow.
Today is another full day expanding on the mountain and winter skills you learned yesterday but you will also be introduced to winter navigation. If conditions are right, get yourself ready to take on some steeper and more challenging terrain.
An evening spent at the accommodation whilst grabbing a bite to eat and a well-earned pint I'm sure.
The final half-day of hiking you will be looking at emergency situations, avalanche awareness and going over some of the key skills you would have covered over the last few days.
We normally finish on the hills early afternoon in the mountain ski cafe for a de-brief with some cake then drop everyone back at Aviemore by 4pm.
A great long weekend of winter trekking in one of the most beautiful mountain areas of the UK
Departure Dates & Prices
Food & Accommodation
On your Scottish Winter Skills adventure, you’ll stay in the vibrant town of Aviemore, in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. Your accommodation is in a friendly bunkhouse or similar style of guesthouse. Warm, welcoming, and a great base for your mountain adventures.
Although food is not included in the trip package, you’ll find it really easy to sort meals locally, and our team helps organise everything so you can focus on enjoying the experience, not worrying about where to eat.
Food
Fuel is essential for big days in the Scottish mountains, and while meals aren’t included in the trip price, there are plenty of easy, flexible options to keep you well-fed and energised.
Breakfast
Breakfast isn’t included, but there are several ways to start the day. Some bunkhouses or guesthouses offer breakfast that can be purchased on the day, or you can pick up supplies from the local supermarket and self-cater. Aviemore also has plenty of cafés where you can grab breakfast or a strong coffee before hitting the mountains.
Lunch
Each day you’ll need to prepare and bring your own packed lunch. Aviemore has lots of shops, bakeries, and supermarkets where you can easily buy sandwiches, pastries, fruit, snacks, and drinks. Think energy-boosting snacks and easy-to-carry food.
Dinner
While evening meals aren’t included, we make group reservations at local restaurants so everyone can eat together. This makes dinner easy and sociable and it’s a great way to relax, share stories from the day, and sample some classic Scottish dishes like haggis, hearty stews, or fish and chips. There are also vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available in most places.
Drinks & Water
Tap water is safe to drink in Scotland. You’ll be able to refill your water bottles at the accommodation or cafés each morning. We also recommend bringing a thermos for hot tea, coffee, or soup to enjoy while out on the hills.
Dietary Needs
If you have specific dietary requirements (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc.), you’ll have plenty of options locally in Aviemore. Just make sure you communicate any needs to your accommodation provider or when ordering meals.
Accommodation
You’ll stay for three nights in a friendly bunkhouse or guesthouse in Aviemore, with simple, clean, and cosy shared rooms. Accommodation is based on same-sex dormitory-style rooms unless you have requested otherwise (private room upgrades are subject to availability and an additional cost).
Facilities include:
- Warm rooms with comfortable beds
- Shared bathrooms
- Drying rooms for wet kit
- Communal lounges for relaxing
- Easy access to shops, restaurants, and cafés
After long days on the hills, a hot shower, a good meal, and some down-time with your fellow EverTrekkers will be just what you need.
FAQs
The EverTrek Scotland Winter Skills Weekend costs £450 per person. This includes three full days of winter trekking and mountaineering skills instruction in the spectacular Cairngorms National Park, based near the town of Aviemore in the Scottish Highlands.
Included:
- Three full days of professional instruction with experienced mountain guides
- All group safety equipment
- Hire of crampons, ice axes, and helmets
- Shared accommodation for three nights in a local bunkhouse or similar
- Help and advice on all aspects of your trekking journey
Not included:
- Breakfasts, packed lunches, or evening meals
- Personal winter boots (B2 winter boots required)
- Winter trekking clothing
- Transport to and from the starting points
You will be based in Aviemore, at the heart of the Cairngorms National Park in the Scottish Highlands. The specific mountains and routes tackled each day will depend on weather and snow conditions, ensuring the best possible winter mountaineering experience. Expect snow-covered trails, crampon use, ice axe skills, and classic winter trekking in one of the UK’s most beautiful mountain areas.
You should have a moderate to good level of fitness, comfortable trekking for 5–7 hours a day across snow, ice, and uneven winter terrain. The weekend is suitable for those new to winter mountaineering as well as those looking to sharpen their skills before taking on challenges such as Island Peak, Mera Peak, or Mt Toubkal in winter conditions.
Recommended preparation:
- Cardiovascular training: Hiking, hill walking, running, cycling
- Leg and core strength exercises
- Back-to-back long hikes carrying a light backpack
We recommend training three to five times a week for a few months beforehand.
Focusing on stamina and strength will help you get the most out of the weekend.
Meals are not included in the weekend package. We will make reservations at local restaurants each evening for the group.
You will need to organise:
- Breakfasts, packed lunches, and trail snacks, bring plenty as fuel is essential in winter conditions.
