Who Is This Course For?

If you’re a confident summer hillwalker looking to explore steeper ground, rocky ridges, and airy gullies, this course is for you. It’s designed to help you:

• Build confidence on exposed terrain

• Learn essential scrambling techniques

• Safely navigate classic grade 1 routes

Whether you’re new to scrambling or want to refine your skills, this is the perfect introduction to mountain scrambling in the UK.

What You’ll Learn

Over two days, you’ll gain practical skills and experience on classic Snowdonia scrambles. Topics include:

• Route finding on steep ground. We will help you to interpret the guidebooks and route find on the ground, gaining experience so that you can find your own way on grade 1 scrambles after the course. 

• Using scrambling guidebooks and understanding grading systems. The guidebooks often use a language all of their own, we will help put this into plain English for you. We will take you out on benchmark grade 1 routes so that you get a feel for the grade. 

• Movement techniques on rock and mixed terrain. We will help you to master confident movement techniques for Grade 1 scrambles, focusing on footwork, body positioning and balance to maximise efficiency and safety on routes like the North Ridge of Tryfan. 

• Safeguarding yourself and your partner on rock steps, gullies, descents, and pinnacles. Learn the art of good route choice, decision making and physical skills such as spotting. 

Scrambling over Crib Goch with Andrew Price for ITV Wales

Typical Venues

Routes are chosen based on weather and group ability. Possible locations include:

• Tryfan – The North Ridge being “the” classic grade 1 scramble in North Wales 

• The Glyderau – Routes like Y Gribin and Bristly Ridge

• Y Lliwedd

• Crib Goch (in ideal conditions with experienced groups)

• Lesser-known ridges for quieter, scenic experiences

Snowdonia offers a wide variety of scrambles — many finishing near summits for a true mountain journey. Scrambling also helps you avoid crowded paths and explore more adventurous terrain.

Why Choose Us?

Rob Johnson and Huw Gilbert bring decades of experience, passion, and professionalism to every course:

• Hold the WMCI qualification — the highest instructional certification in the UK

• Regular contributors to Trail Magazine

• Rob has almost two decades of experience as a Mountain Rescue volunteer

• Over 30 years of scrambling experience

We believe in learning by doing, and our courses are designed to inspire confidence and independence in the mountains.

Read more about our instructors

Taking Barry McGuigan scrambling on the Gribin Ridge

Course Location

All instruction takes place in Snowdonia National Park (Eryri), North Wales. You can read more about the routes that we use on this article from our instructors tips pages. 

Accommodation & Transport

Accommodation is not included, allowing you to choose somewhere that suits your budget. Snowdonia offers options from campsites to nice hotels. Explore travel and accommodation options here.

Meeting Point & Times

After booking, you’ll receive:

• A confirmation email

• Detailed course notes

• A full kit list

• Meeting instructions

Courses typically begin at 9:00 AM in Snowdonia and finish around 4:00 PM.

Course Dates

We run the course from April to November. We generally avoid weekends because they are increasingly busy and the routes are much more enjoyable mid-week. 

2027

6/7 May: 4 spaces
7/8 June: 4 spaces

Ready to Start Your Scrambling Journey?