What experience do I need for Winter Hillwalking in Scotland

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We all must start somewhere, so the answer to this could be “none”. We usually find winter hillwalking is a progression from hillwalking in the warmer months. It’s the natural next step to want to keep exploring into the winter.

Most of our winter hillwalking clients have summer and autumn mountain experience. They are familiar with big days, good weather, bad weather, and pretty much everything in-between! But snow, ice, cold and reduced daylight are a new challenge.

Terms such as “white out” and “avalanche risk” bring a whole new dynamic into play. And then there’s winter equipment such as an ice axe and crampons. There’s little point in having these in your rucksack if you don’t know how to use them.

Experience and knowledge are built up over time. So, although you may have little or no experience, its super important members of your group do, or you are part of a professionally led winter hillwalking course, or winter skills course.

If you are part of an independent group, make sure it’s clear that the experienced member is the “leader” for the day. If situations get tricky, or there’s some form of emergency, remember they are the one with the experience and should be making the decisions.

Others may come across with a stronger character and voice, but that’s no substitute for experience. And don’t be drawn into committee decisions either. Follow the leader, and don’t bow to peer pressure.

Of course, if you are part of an organised winter hillwalking course, it’s very clear who’s in charge from the get-go. You will be paying for their knowledge and experience, to learn and build your own levels of experience and confidence.

This investment in yourself is a valuable foundation for a future spent winter hillwalking and mountaineering in Scotland.