Scrambles for the Alps
Overview
Training for the Alps and Greater Ranges
Snowdonia has undoubtedly the best selection of mountain scrambles in the British Isles. Our Scrambles for the Alps course is a great introduction to more technical scrambling where a rope will be required. The terrain in the Alps is changing and greater competence on rock is required, even on our introductory-level courses. The aim of this weekend is to get onto grade 2 and 3 scrambles as preparation and training for courses such as our Haute Route, Alpine Introduction, Saas 4,000ers and Gran Paradiso Summits.
Who is it for?
The course is for active hill walkers who would like to visit the European Alps. The course teaches you:- To plan a mountaineering day out (weather, maps, equipment, guidebooks)
- To navigate to the base of the route
- Route choice and decision making
- Efficient movement over rocky terrain
- Use of the rope and climbing equipment
- Abseiling
Scrambles are graded from 1 to 3. Grade 1 is unlikely to require a rope but would involve steep and often exposed ground, where good route choice is important and may be used in most weather conditions. Grade 2 requires the use of a rope and elementary rock climbing skills to negotiate steeper ridges and gullies; certain weather conditions may affect these scrambles. Grade 3 is usually more grade 2 ground with perhaps some route finding decisions to be made. A rope is used throughout.
Some of the possible scrambles are
Dolmen ridge (Glyder Fach)
A grade 3, three star scramble, finishing a few metres from the summit of Gyder Fach.
Clogwyn y Person Arete
A grade 2, three star scramble. A lengthy but interesting walk in is followed by some impressive rock scenery and excellent climbing. This route can be combined with the traverse of Crib Goch to return to the Llanberis pass.
Crib Lem (Llech Ddu Spur)
A grade 1, three star scramble situated in the Carneddau. Although an easier route it is situated in a remote and little visited area and provides a good outing in a grand setting.
Information about the Course venue and accommodation, Course Director and instructional ratios, Equipment, Insurance and Inclusions and Exclusions... read more »
Recommended Guidebooks
Scrambles in Snowdonia (Steve Ashton), Cicerone Guide.Additional Information
If you wish to discuss any aspect of the course or your suitability for it, please phone +44 (0)114 276 3322 or contact us.Dates & Prices
| Date | Meeting in | Availability | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fri 16 May – Sun 18 May 2025 | Betws Y Coed |
full
|
|
| Course Guide/Instructor David Percy | £495 | ||
| Fri 6 Jun – Sun 8 Jun 2025 | Betws Y Coed |
full
|
|
| Course Guide/Instructor David Percy | £495 | ||
This course is available to book in GBP, USD and EUR.
Click to Change currency for prices on this site.
Group size: 12 people maximum.
For comparison, this course starts from £248 (GBP) per day (price Without Flights).
What the price includes
- 2 nights' bed and breakfast accommodation in Betws-y-Coed, on a single room basis.
- 2 days' guiding/instruction at a 1:2 ratio maximum.
- Road transport to fulfil the course programme.
- All group climbing equipment, such as ropes and other technical equipment.
- Harness and helmet, when booked in advance.
What the price does not include
- Transport to Betws-y-Coed.
- Lunch and evening meals.
- Clothing, rucksack.
- Mountaineering and travel Insurance
Photos & Videos
Reports & Reviews
Have you been on this trip? If you'd like to contribute a trip report then we'll post it up on the site.
Team Member Reviews
There are currently no team member reviews for this trip.Duration
2 Nights(2 days guided)
