Learn to Lead Climb Week

A 5-day learn to lead climbing course in the Highlands of Scotland is a comprehensive and immersive program designed to teach participants the skills and techniques required to lead climb safely and confidently. Here is an itinerary for a typical 5-day course:

Day 1 Kingussie Crags: The first day of the course will begin with a briefing from the experienced guide, who will go over the itinerary and safety protocols for the week. Participants will then be introduced to the basic equipment used in lead climbing, including ropes, harnesses, and protection. The day will be spent practicing basic climbing techniques on single-pitch climbs, with a focus on good gear selection, placement and anchor building.

Day 2 Pinnacle Crags: On the second day, participants will begin to develop the skills from day 1 to become more independent while learning new ways to build anchors depending on the situation presented at the top of the crag. 

Day 3 Cummingston Crags: The third day will involve more advanced lead climbing techniques, including personal abseil setups to retrieve stuck gear. Participants will be taught how to lead climb safely, using proper protection techniques and communication with their belayer.

Day 4 Creag Na H-Eighe Crags: On the fourth day, participants will have the opportunity to put their skills to the test on more challenging climbs (if they wish it). The focus will be on building confidence and improving technique, with personalized instruction and feedback from the guide.

Day 5 Polldubh Crags: The final day of the course will be spent on a multi-pitch lead climb, allowing participants to showcase the skills they have learned over the week. The day will also include a debrief with the guide, providing an opportunity for reflection and feedback.

Throughout the course, participants will have the chance to learn about the history and ecology of the area, adding depth to the overall experience. Overall, a 5-day learn to lead climbing course in the Highlands of Scotland is an immersive and challenging program designed to teach participants the skills and techniques required for safe and confident lead climbing.

We are proud to recommend local accommodation options within the area for people when you are up for your Learn To Lead Climb Week Long Course:

Aviemore:

Youth Hostel A budget friendly option for people.

Coylumbridge Hotel Aviemroe – good for groups and families alike.

Premier Inn – always a good shout.

Rothiemurchus Campsite – situated in the stunning forest, this is a beautiful budget friendly option.

Glenmore Campsite – situated at Scotland’s highest beach, Loch Morlich has phenomenal views across to Cairngorm Mountain.

Newtonmore & Surrounding Areas:

https://www.wherestagsroar.co.uk/ award winning accommodation in the Highlands – perfect to stay at while up on an outdoor adventure.

Invernahavon Caravan Park – a bit quieter than the others as it is a little further away from the hustle and bustle of Aviemore.

Dalraddy Holiday Park – a family and dog friendly campsite.

We pride ourselves on providing as much kit as possible for you.  However, the list below is what we recommend you should bring to your Learn To Lead Climb Week Long Course:

• Travel insurance. (We are insured for all our trips, but we recommend everyone has their own travel insurance as well.)
• Lunch, water.
• Personal medication
• Sun cream, midge net
• Waterproofs (it is Scotland after all)
• Sturdy footwear.
• Climbing shoes.

Here at Highland Outdoor Adventures, we pride ourselves on providing as much as we can but you are welcome to bring your own equipment if you do prefer. The list below is what we provide you with on the day.

• All instruction.
• Helmets
• Ropes
• Harness
• Helmets
• All Technical Climbing Gear
• All first aid and safety equipment.
• Transportation for 2 people. Pickup can be arranged from elsewhere if needed.
• Photographs of the day provided for you at no extra cost! If the weather is good we will have a DSLR professional camera  so we can take photos and videos of your adventure and you can look back at the day for years to come. If the weather is less favourable we will bring a GoPro (as it is waterproof) so we will still be able to take photos for you.