Advanced Scrambling Course Snowdonia: Grade 2/3 Scrambles
Move Beyond Grade 1: Become Independent and Confident on Technical Terrain
Do you fancy more challenging scrambles like the Cneifion Arete or Dolmen Ridge? Our intensive 2-day Advanced Scrambling Course in the heart of Snowdonia (Eryri) is designed to bridge the gap between confident grade 1 scrambling and leading your own routes on technical Grade 2 and 3 terrain. We show you how the use of a rope makes these higher grades safer without curtailing the freedom of movement that scrambling entails whilst enjoying as much scrambling as possible.
Recent Review
The Expedition Guide Advantage: WMCI-Led Instruction with a 1:2 Ratio
Location: Snowdonia, North Wales (Eryri) – Ogwen Valley, Glyderau, Tryfan, Glyder Fawr, Yr Wyddfa, Crib Goch
Price: £300 per person
Ratio: 1 instructor to 2 clients
Duration: 2 days (Practical, Guided Instruction)
Prerequisite: Previous Grade 1 Scrambling Experience e.g. North Ridge of Tryfan or our Intro to Scrambling Course
Next Step: The perfect preparation for our Learn to Lead Scrambling Course
Transition from Grade 1 Scrambling to Roped Mountaineering Terrain
If Grade 1 scrambles have sparked your passion and you’re ready for more challenging terrain, this course is for you. Whether you’re eyeing iconic routes like Aonach Eagach, Tower Ridge, The Cuillin, or even planning a future trip to the Alps, our Advanced Scrambling Course provides the essential ropework and route-finding skills to keep you safe and confident.
Essential Roped Mountaineering Skills You Will Master
We introduce you to the fundamentals of mountaineering and roped scrambling, preparing you for some of the UK’s most exhilarating Grade 3 routes. You will learn:
- Confident movement on exposed terrain
- An introduction to ropework for scrambling: direct belays, short pitching and anchor selection
- Route finding and decision making
- Emergency procedures and risk management
- Transitioning toward alpine or mountaineering objectives
- We focus on giving you as much scrambling on grade 2 and 3 scrambles as possible over the two days
We have been running our advanced scrambling courses since 2004 in the mountains of Snowdonia.
Iconic Routes: Conquer Grade 3 Scrambles like Cneifion Arete & Dolmen Ridge
Depending on the conditions and group ability some of the routes we might explore include:
Cneifion Arete – A stunning Grade 3 scramble often likened to an Alpine ridge. It begins with a couple of pitches of Difficult-grade climbing and transitions into thrilling knife-edge scrambling.
Dolmen Ridge (Glyder Fach) – A three-star Grade 3 scramble that finishes just metres from the summit of Glyder Fach.
Clogwyn y Person Arete – A beautiful alpine-style ridge featuring rock climbing pitches and exhilarating scrambling, with descent via Crib Goch to Llanberis Pass.
You’ll also explore many other classic scrambles, venturing into jaw-dropping terrain typically reserved for experienced rock climbers.
This course is ideal preparation for your first trip to Skye, a summer Alpine adventure, or as a prerequisite for our guided expeditions to Skye and Ben Nevis.
Course Location
All courses are held in Snowdonia National Park (Eryri) home to a rich variety of historic mountain scrambles. Most routes are easily accessible with short walk-ins, allowing more time on the rock and less time on the trail.
Equipment Provided
We supply all specialist equipment, including:
Ropes
Harnesses
Helmets
Climbing rack
You’re welcome to bring your own gear if preferred. A detailed kit list will be provided upon booking.
Accommodation & Transport
Accommodation is not included. However, Snowdonia offers a wide range of options—from campsites to boutique hotels. [Explore accommodation options here.]
Meet Your WMCI & IML Instructors: Rob Johnson & Huw Gilbert
Courses are led by myself and fellow instructor Huw. We both hold the WMCI qualification—the highest instructional certification in the UK.
We believe in learning by doing and making the experience fun and memorable. [Learn more about our qualifications here.]
Meeting Time & Place
After booking, you’ll receive:
A confirmation email
A comprehensive course guide
A detailed kit list
Meeting instructions
Courses typically begin at 9:00 AM in the Ogwen Valley and finish around 4:00 PM at the same location.
Upcoming Course Dates
2026
26/27 Nov: 4 spaces
2027
22/23 April: 4 spaces
10/11 May: 4 spaces
8/9 July: 4 spaces
Ready to Take Your Scrambling to the Next Level?
Do I need prior scrambling experience?
Yes, you should be comfortable with Grade 1 scrambles and have good hill fitness.
Is this suitable for solo travellers?
Absolutely! Many participants join solo.
What if the weather is bad?
We adapt routes to suit conditions and ensure safety.
Hi Rob, Thanks for another great couple of days on the Advanced Scrambling course. I still can’t believe we ticked off Dolmen Ridge on day 1 and Idwal Buttress/Staircase on day 2. They felt like big steps up from grade 1 scrambling but as ever, your patience and clear explanation allowed us as students time to work out a way to follow you up without pressure. I felt safe, thoroughly enjoyed both days and can’t wait to do more! Thanks again, Olivia By Olivia M on Aug 04, 2025
Another fantastic couple of days out with Rob in the mountains, joined also by Nick, on the advanced scrambling course. We touched base with some grade 2 scrambles to begin with, learning rope techniques, before moving onto new things at grade 3 +. Immersed in a beautiful landscape, great route choices on both days from Rob allowing for the weather conditions and our previous experience. Challenging and very rewarding, Looking forward to the next course in Scotland soon. By Stuart L on Jul 05, 2025
I can’t recommend this course highly enough: Rob and Huw were both helpful and really friendly whilst maintaining true professionalism. The course was well planned out and pitched at exactly the right level, giving the perfect mix of adrenaline and fun. It enabled me to push myself without feeling overwhelmed and Huw’s wealth of knowledge and experience was always reassuring – I always knew I was in very safe hands! I’ve learnt a lot, had a truly enjoyable few days and met some lovely people who I hope to stay in touch with; I can’t wait to come back and do more with these guys. Book some time away from your desk and go find yourself again in the mountains!By Alex V for Advanced Scrambling Course on Nov 03, 2024
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A great couple of days on immaculate rock. Rob was a great guide and coach, giving us opportunities to push further and develop our skills. Highly recommended. By Manon D on Apr 21, 2025
